Russian coach hopes to forge some rink links

Russian women's hockey coach Mikhail Chekanov is turning cupid by plotting to bring together the country's male and female teams in Sochi - a move he says could pay dividends for both sets of players.

Chekanov plans to arrange joint outings that could include moonlight walks or karaoke in the hope of turning Olympic rings into engagement rings - with Valentine's Day also looming.

"They know many of the (men) players already, of course, but, on the other hand, some will get better acquainted," the coach said. "All of a sudden, somebody might fall in love."