The hockey matches make it very simple to undertake the practical chores of the day! Yesterday I made a slow left turn onto Kingsway across four lanes of empty traffic with no need for a traffic light. I had the hardware shop to myself, really — the entire lumber section was all mine. At the gym it was a matchless zone, the TV was off and the music it’s usual pumpity dreadful. There was also a live serenade by the trumpeter in our building that indicated the outcome.

Much as I continue to enjoy the public exuberance and animation over this sporting pursuit, I also enjoy the sleepy and curving calm the entire city being indoors glued to a screen for three periods affords.

I have too much work hanging over me at the moment to join them on the entire 7 match schedule.