[ritchiebaby]

Scotland took control against Italy right from the start and built up a commanding lead, eventually winning 7-2. In a very rare event, skip Bruce Mouat scored 100% success - every shot did exactly what was required. Normally it's leads and seconds that reach 100%, as they play a simpler style of shot.

It's still very tight at the top and still involves the same eight teams, but overall the Scots are in a better position than they were last night. The danger teams waiting on any slip-up, Italy and Switzerland, were both beaten. In an amazing turnaround, Sweden beat Canada, despite being 2-6 down with three ends to go and 5-7 down with one end to go.

The latest standings see Sweden at the top with 9 wins and are guaranteed a top 6 finish. RCF and Scotland are second with 8 wins and one of them will definitely qualify. On 7 wins are Canada, Norway and USA, followed by Italy and Switzerland on 5. Italy can only get 7 wins and Switzerland could reach 8.

There are a few "dog eat dog" games today with RCF v Norway, Scotland v RCF and Norway v Canada. Tomorrow's big game will be Scotland v Norway, where it's possible the loser will miss out, but that depends on Switzerland's progress. Many twists and turns to come yet.