USA U17 Team advances to the U17 World Challenge Championship Game

Today's USA VS. Sweden Semifinal Game of the U17 World Challenge Tournament in Windsor, Ontario was mostly an uneventful game with both teams afraid to attack at times and with both teams playing for the OT, then when the Game got to OT, it felt like that Sweden was just playing to get the Shootout.

For the Americans, a smart & speedy game was played extremely well where each team had 6 penalties (12 Minutes for the USA & 20 Minutes for SWE) where both goalies in Sionas & Demko had to make some excellent saves in this low scoring affair.

Now that the Americans have clinched the Championship Game for tomorrow night, they will take on Russia who just defeated CAN Ontario also in OT 4-3 in a game that ended just a few minutes ago.

USA VS. Sweden Game Photos

Sweden 1 USA 2 (SO) (0-0, 1-0, 0-1, 0-0, 0-1)

Press Release from USA Hockey

From Windsor, Ontario: Evan Allen & Anthony Lewis each scored shootout goals, as the U.S. National U17 Team earned a SO Victory over Sweden 2-1, in the 2012 World Under 17 Hockey Challenge Semifinals here this evening at the WFCU Center (Home of the Windsor Spitfires/OHL). With the win, Team USA Improves to 4-0-0-1 and advances to the championship game against the CAN Ontario VS. Russia Semifinal Winner.

"It is a great feeling to be playing tomorrow in the Title Game," said Don Granato, head coach of the USA U17 Team. "We have to rest up and be ready for an exceptional team tomorrow in the final."

Team USA had 8 shots on goal in the opening frame, but couldn't put the puck past Swedish Net-minder Ebbe Sionas, Thatcher Demko turned aside both shots he faced in the period and the teams entered the first intermission scoreless.

Sweden seized the lead off shorthanded breakaway at 17:20 of the 2nd period. The U.S. Recorded nine shots on goal in the frame, but didn't score and trailed Sweden 1-0, after two periods.

Michael McCarron tied the game for the U.S. at 3:10 of the 3rd. Scott Savage & Dawson Cook collected assists on the tally. The goal would stand as the lone tally in the period in the game and contest was sent into a 10 minute overtime.

The U.S. Pressured Sweden in the OT Session, firing eight shots on net, while holding Sweden to three. Neither team potted the game-winning goal and the contest would be decided in a best-of-three shootout.

Demko turned aside Sweden's first shooter with a stick save. Allen skated in next for Team USA and slipped the puck past Sionas gave the U.S. a one goal advantage. Demko then made a sprawling pad save on the next Swedish Shooter to preserve the lead for Team USA. Shooting next for Team USA, Louis scored with a wrist shot into the top of the net to secure the victory for Team U.S, as it defeated Sweden 2-1.

Demko turned aside 22 shots for Team USA in the victory, while Sionas made 38 saves for Sweden for Sweden in the loss.

Notes: The USA National U17 Team will face the CAN Ontario VS. Russia Winner tomorrow (Jan. 4) at 7 PM EST.   The game will be held at the WFCU Center in Windsor, Ontario (Home of the Windsor Spitfires/OHL).    Thatcher Demko was named Team USA's Player of the Game.    The U.S. Went 0/4 on the Power Play, while Sweden went 0/5 with the man advantage.     Team USA recorded 39 shots on goal, while Sweden had 23.    Click here for Team USA's Full Roster.     The 2012 World U17 Hockey Challenge includes 2 pools of 5 teams each from CAN Atlantic, Germany, CAN Pacific, Russia, CAN West & the USA.   Exclusive videos will be posted on the USA Hockey Youtube Channel under the World U17 Challenge play list.   Follow @USAHockeyScores on twitter for live scoring updates during the tournament. Scores will be designated with #U17CHAL.    All games during the World U17 Challenge will be available via webcast at Fast Hockey  For additional coverage, visit USA Hockey National Team Development Program Facebook Page.    The USA National U17 & U18 Teams train with the IntelliGym, a revolutionary new software program released on October 1, 2010 that trains hockey sense. To learn more, visit www.usahockeyintelligym.com





I will be at the Farmers Branch Starcenter for Tonight's HS Playoff Games

I will be heading to the Farmers Branch Starcenter tonight for the Game 2's in the best of 3 Series between the Southlake Carroll Dragons and the Frisco ISD. Plus Dallas Jesuit playing Allen as the top 2 seeds will be looking to close out their series tonight and advance to the Semifinals.

Be sure to check out some of the best talent in the area with players like Marcel Toure, Connor Morrow and Drew Cossu looking to close out Frisco ISD tonight and advance to the Semifinals. The 1st Quarterfinal will be at 6:30 PM tonight.

Then in the late game will be Allen VS. Dallas Jesuit as the Eagles look to build on a strong late portion of the 2nd period after the 5-0 SO on Tuesday night. The 2nd game of the night will start at 8:15 PM tonight.

Can't make it to Farmers Branch? They's plenty of other great games including Game 2 of the Plano West Wolves VS. Coppell Cowboys after Game 1 got to a shootout after the Cowboys edged the Wolves on Tuesday night.

Here's the Full Schedule for Tonight's HS Playoff Games.


Gold Tier Quarterfinals (Game 2)

#1 Southlake Carroll VS. #8 Frisco ISD 6:30 PM @ Farmers Branch Starcenter (Southlake Carroll Leads Series 1-0)

#2 Allen VS. #7 Dallas Jesuit 8:15 PM @ Farmers Branch Starcenter (Allen Leads Series 1-0)

#3 Plano Senior VS. #6 Flower Mound 7:00 PM @ Plano Starcenter (Plano Senior Leads Series 1-0)

#4 Coppell VS. #5 Plano West 8:45 PM @ Plano Starcenter (Coppell Leads Series 1-0)


Silver Tier Quarterfinals

#1 Garland ISD VS. #9 Grapevine 6:30 PM @ Richardson Ice Training Center

#2 Keller ISD VS. #7 Richardson ISD 7:00 PM @ Euless Starcenter

#3 FM Marcus VS. #6 Plano East 8:45 PM @ Euless Starcenter

#4 Rockwall VS. #5 Midlothian 8:15 PM @ Richardson Ice Training Center


If any of the Gold Tier Quarterfinal Series' need a Game 3, it will be on Saturday.


Gold Tier Quarterfinals Game 3 (If Necessary)

#1 Southlake Carroll VS. #8 Frisco ISD 2:45 PM @ Euless Starcenter

#2 Allen VS. #7 Dallas Jesuit 6:45 PM @ Mckinney Starcenter

#3 Plano Senior VS. #6 Flower Mound 8:30 PM @ Mckinney Starcenter

#4 Coppell VS. #5 Plano West 6:45 PM @ Mckinney Starcenter



All of the Quarterfinal Winners will Advance to the Semifinals Which will be on March 22.

Gold Tier

#1 Seed VS. #4 Seed 6:15 PM @ Farmers Branch Starcenter

#2 Seed VS. #3 Seed 7:00 PM @ Plano Starcenter


Silver Tier

#1 Seed VS. #4 Seed 8:00 PM @ Farmers Branch Starcenter

#2 Seed VS. #3 Seed 8:45 PM @ Plano Starcenter

Twitter Updates during Men's Olympic Semifinals

The first of the Semifinal Games will be starting in a few minutes as the U.S.A. will take on Finland while at 4:30 PM PST it will be Canada taking on Slovakia with both games taking place at Canada Hockey Place. It's very simple today, win and your in the Gold Medal Game on Sunday afternoon, lose and you will play for the Bronze Medal on Saturday Evening.

U.S.A. VS. Finland 12:00 PM PST

Canada VS. Slovakia 4:30 PM PST


Bronze Medal Game: Saturday at 7:00 PM PST

Gold Medal Game: Sunday at 12:15 PM PST

Kiprusoff, Team Defense Shutdown's the Czech Republic

With one of the most defensive showdowns of the enter tournament with the first goal not coming until Niklas Hagaman broke the deadlock in a game of chicken where despite the shot count being so high in this game, it was getting to the point where one goal could have been enough to win the game.

Thanks to Mikka Kiprusoff's great performance, that made the difference as the Finns were able to shut out the Czechs and the team will be back in the Semifinals and Medal Round for the 2nd straight Olympics after coming so close to winning their first ever Olympic Gold Medal in their team's history.

For the Czech Republic, this ends a streak where the Czechs will not for an Olympic Medal for the first time since 1994. Could be a major sign of the decline of Czech Hockey in recent years. Their Junior Team have struggled, they not producing more players to the NHL in recent years and the Czech Extraliga has been going downhill steadily over the last decade or so.

Also, they had one of the older rosters on the team that for some of these guys that this would most likely be their final International Tournament of their careers.

For Finland, it's a shot at redemption against the U.S.A. as the Finns are looking for the nations first ever Olympic Gold after winning Silver Medals in 1988 (Calgary) and 2006 (Turin, Italy) and winning Bronze Medals in 1994 (Lillehammer, Norway) and 1998 (Nagano, Japan). Finland's last senior international Gold Medal was back in 1995 when the IHWC was held in Stockholm.

Finland VS. Czech Republic Game Photos: www.iihf.com/channels10/olympics-2010/pictures/page/0/game/FIN%20-%20CZE%20%28QF%29.html

Finland VS. Czech Republic Game Summary: www.vancouver2010.com/olympic-hockey/schedule-and-results/mens-play-offs-quarterfinals---game-25_ihm400303gi.html

Here's the Matches for the Semifinals on Friday. Both Games will be at the Hockey Canada Place.

U.S.A. VS. Finland 12:00 PM PST

Canada VS. Slovakia 6:30 PM PST

Risto Pakarinen of the International Ice Hockey Federation: www.iihf.com

Thanks to Mikka Kiprusoff's shutout and Niklas Hagman's power play goal, Finland stayed in Vancouver to play a semi-final game against Team U.S.A., after 2-0 win over the Czech Republic late on Wednesday night.

"Just another day at the office for "Kipper"." said Teemu Selanne.

Finland managed to get a bye by being the best 2nd place team, while the Czechs had to go the full rounds with Latvia in the 2nd round game on Tuesday night. Maybe it was the Czechs' slight fatigue that caused penalty trouble they were in early in the game.

"Often it's better to play on back to back days, but I don't know, maybe they were tired. Although, they all play in the NHL and they should be used to it," Finland's Tuomo Ruutu said.

"This was a huge improvement over our game against Sweden. We wanted to be active, and take initiate. It's easier to be aggressive and play with our emotion if you know that somebody will cover for you. The defensemen can pinch when you can pinch they can trust the forwards," he added.

Just 3:38 into the game, Finland had a two-man advantage, a golden opportunity to score. The power play was turned into a 4-on-3 special when Finland captain Saku Koivu was sent to the penalty box for tripping. Finland-who had scored six power play goals in the first 3 games of the tournament-couldn't capitalize on its chance, nor did it score on any of the other four power play chances it had in this game.

Not only did the penalties give Finland the upper hand in the period, they also kept the Czech superstar Jaromir Jagr off the ice, as coach Ruzicka went with other players in the penalty kill. Jagr played only 2:08 in the first period.

In the 2nd period, the Czechs stayed out of the penalty box, a recipe for success, and they managed to create some good scoring chances. Team Captain Patrik Elias had an empty net in front of him halfway through the period, but the puck bounced over the blade. In fact, the only penalty of the period was on Olli Jokinen delaying of the game at 15:41 after he moved the net during a Czech attack. The ensued power play unit with Elias, Jagr, and Tomas Plekanec and defensemen Marek Zidlicky and Tomas Kaberle created a couple of good chances, but Kiprusoff was perfected in the Finnish goal.

"The most important thing is how the goalie makes his team feel, if he gives them the extra confidence. He doesn't even have to be the best in the world, if he makes his teammates more confident," said Jaromir Jagr."

The game was as round as the goalless score after two periods indicated. The Finns out shot the Czechs out shot Finland 11-10. And it came down the wire. Both teams were very careful in their own ends, with the first goal simply getting the puck over the blueline, and then went looking for that one mistake. Or a Power Play chance to take advantage.

Finland got its chance at 52:17 when Martin Erat was sent to the box for delaying the game. With 6:26 remaining, the puck was played to Janne Niskala whose slapshot Niklas Hagman deflected to the back of the net through Vokoun's five hole.

"It was tough luck for us, because the defensemen lost his helmet and he had to go and pick it up. But, it's a part of the game," Jagr commented on the play that left Hagman in front of the net.

Finland will play the U.S.A. in it's semifinal on Friday

"It'll be a tough game, they have a couple of skilled lines, but also players that are physical. A little bit like our team," said Defensemen Kimmo Timonen.

Sweden Dethroned, Slovakia to play for first ever Olympic Medal

The Defending Olympic Gold Medal Winners were looking to be the first team to repeat since the Soveit Union Domination in the 60s and the 70s. After a slow start to the game where it was a bit of a sleeper in the first period, but the game came to life in the 2nd period when Marian Gaborik and Andrej Sekera helped the Slovaks go up 2-0 in just over a minute prior to the midway point of the game.

For Sweden, Henrik Zetterberg and Patric Hornqvist came back quickly to make it 2-2 as the game began to come alive. With some great PP's chances and some fast action. The Slovaks used Tomas Kopecky goal to go up 4-2, but just 40 seconds later the Swedes fired right back with the Ottawa Senators Superstar Daniel Alfredsson used a goal to back within 1. And provided a great challenge to get back in the game when Sweden out shot Slovakia 10-3 in the 3rd period and 29-14 for the game.

The Slovak shot output got lower as the game went on as they got 7 off in the 1st, just 4 in the 2nd and just 3 in the 3rd period. But the Slovaks made their power play count big time as they scored twice with the man advantage and provided a spark on defense to help fend off the Swedes and knock them out.

For Slovakia, this is the best result ever for the team since the split of the Czech Republic and Slovakia in the early 90s. The Slovaks will play the host Canadians in Friday's Semifinals. For Slovakia, they have 3 IHWC Medals to their credit in their pretty short history. Gold in 2002, Silver in 200 and a Bronze in Medal in 2003. This will also be their first ever shot at an Olympic Medal in Ice Hockey.

Going into the Semifinals, we have 2 teams in Finland and Slovakia who have never won Olympic Gold. As well as the U.S.A. who are looking to win their first Gold Medal in 30 years. That leaves Canada as the only team with a recent Olympic Gold that they won in 2002 in Salt Lake, City Utah.

Updated Brackets for Friday's Semifinals. Both games are at Canada Hockey Place.

U.S.A. VS Finland 12:00 PM PST

Canada VS. Slovakia 6:30 PM PST

From Lucas Aykroyd of the International Ice Hockey Federation. http://www.iihf.com/

Sweden VS. Slovakia Team Photos: www.iihf.com/channels10/olympics-2010/pictures/page/0/game/SWE%20-%20SVK%20%28QF%29.html

Sweden VS. Slovakia Game Summary: www.vancouver2010.com/olympic-hockey/schedule-and-results/mens-play-offs-quarterfinals---game-26_ihm400304YU.html

Farewell Sweden, In the last Men's Quarterfinal, Slovakia advanced to a semi-final meeting on Canada on Friday, edging the 2006 Champs from Turin 4-3. Canada will face Canada, while the U.S.A. will play Finland.

Tomas Kopecky scored the third-period winner, and Pavol Demitra paced the Slovak Attack with a goal and 2 assists. Marian Gaborik and Andrej Sekera added singles, while Marian Hossa had two helpers.

"It is an awesome feeling, beating one of the favorites in the tournament," said Hossa of the 2010 biggest upset to date. "We played well defensively tonight."

Patrick Hornqvist, Henrik Zetterberg and Daniel Alfredsson replied for Sweden. "I don't really have an explanation," said Nicklas Backstrom. "They're a good team." We knew that, but we weren't ready. We didn't play as well as we could have."

"It wasn't a vintage outing for superstar Swedish Goaltender Henrik Lundqvist, as Slovakia fired just 14 shots on goal to Sweden's 29. Jaroslav Halak got the win for Slovakia. Heading for it's first Olympic Semifinal appearance, Slovakia is guaranteed a top-four finish and a shot at it's first hockey medal at the games ever. The Slovaks came fifth four years ago in Turin, eliminated by the Czechs in the Quarterfinals after winning five straight in the Group Stage.

Slovakia will host the 2011 Ice Hockey World Championships in Bratislava and Kosice, has only three previous senior IIHF World Championship Medals to its credit, all from the Worlds: Gold in 2002, Silver in 2000, and Bronze in 2003. The game started slowly, but turned into a frenzy of trading chances as time wore on: however, the Slovaks never trailed.

"It's ideal when we get the lead and can play our game, but we weren't able to do that tonight," said Zetterberg. Marian Hossa and Tomas Kopecky nearly hooked up on a 2-1 in the opening minute, but there weren't many dangerous scoring opportunities as the team cautiously felt each other out. In the first period, the Slovaks failed to capitalize on three power play chances on Sweden's 1.

The Physical intensity increased just before the buzzer, as Slovak captain Zdeno Chara nearly put Henrik Tallinder over the boards with a big hit and Swedish defensemen Mattias Ohlund stood Marian Hossa up at the blueline with a solid-open ice hit.

In the 2nd period, the Slovaks got to Lundqvist in a big way, scoring three times on just 4 shots.

First the Swedes were caught with too many men on the ice, and paid the price. Slovakia opened the scoring at 7:34 with Marian Hossa fed a perfect cross-ice pass on the power play to Gaborik, whose one-timer along the ice beat Lundqvist. It ended the Swedish starter's tournament best shutout streak, which included wins over Belarus (2-0), and Finland (3-0).

Just 37 seconds later, the Slovaks opened up a 2-0 lead when Richard Zednik stepped away on a 2-on-1, feeding a nice backhand pass by the stick of Nicklas Lundstrom to Andrej Sekera, who made no mistake. Zigmund Palffy, who received the second assist, took a hit to make the play, as he was crushed in his own zone by Niklas Kronwall stepping up in vintage fashion.

The Swedes cut the deficit to 2-1 at 13:49 of the 2nd period with some magic courtsey of the suddenly-awakened Peter Forsberg line. From behind the goal line, "Foppa" got his first point of the Olympic Tournament with a perfect backhanded pass to Hornqvist, who in turn lifed a backhanded past Halak's right pad.

Just 37 seconds later, Foresberg bulled his way to the net and distracted Milan Jurcina as Zetterberg's 2-2 goal at 14:26 bounced in off the big Slovak defender. But the Swedish rally wasn't enough. With 48 seconds left in the 2nd period, Demitra put Slovakia up 3-2 on the man advantage with a screened slapshot that whizzed over Lundqvist's left shoulder.

"It was a huge goal by Demitra," said Marian Hossa. "When you score a goal with 3 seconds left in the period, it is a confidence-booster."

The 3rd period witnessed more dramatics. With 11 minutes left, Demitra busted down right wing, fed Marian Hossa on the other side, and Kopecky raced into convert the garbage into a 4-2 Slovak lead. The Swedes weren't done, though. Half a minute later, Nicklas Backstrom grabbed the puck behind the goal-line and fed a sweet centering pass to Alfredsson, who snapped it over Halak's glove to make it 4-3. That was as close as the Tre Kronor would come.

Sweden buzzed Halak's cage in the dying minutes but failed to get the equalizer. The Slovaks mobbed their goalie jubilantly at the final buzzer.

"We beat a quality team tonight," said Chara. "Sweden were outstanding throughout the tournament. We have to enjoy tonight, but great ready for the next one." (Mentioning Canada in the Semifinals).

The Slovaks played without forward Lubos Bartecko, who was concussed on a hit by Norwegian defensemen Ole Kristian Tollefsen in Slovakia 4-3 2nd round win on Tuesday.

Canada walks all over Russia 7-3, to play Sweden VS. Slovakia Winner Next

What a dominating performance for the Canadians. After a relativity easy game for the Host Team on Thursday night against Germany. The match a lot of people thought would be for the Gold Medal turned into a rout very quickly as the Canadians got goals from all over the ice from Corey Perry who had 2 goals and an assist, to Shea Weber and Sydney Crosby and everyone in between. For Vancouver Goalie Roberto Luongo, it was a retaliative easy night for him but was stellar when called upon.

Russia was just poor all over the ice, from taking to long to change goalies to not matching the Canadian Energy. This was a night where the Russians were sent home and knew it at different parts of the game.

For the most part, Russian Superstar Forwards Alex Ovechkin, Illy Kovalchuk were just disappointing all night and are going to get a mouthful from the Russian Media at home as the Russians were viewed as Canada's biggest challenger during this tournament. This needs to be a wake up call to Russia that performances like this won't be tolorated like this ever at any tournament, much less the Olympics against their biggest rival.

Canada was the better team all over the ice, no doubt about that and this is a highly energized team that has put the problems against Switzerland and the U.S.A. behind them from the Group Stage. This is a team that will put fear into the winner of Sweden VS. Slovakia which is the final game of the night coming up on Friday night in the Semifinals.

Update to Matches for Semifinals on Friday:

U.S.A. VS. Finland 12:00 PM PST @ Canada Hockey Place

Canada VS. Sweden/Slovakia Winner 6:30 PM PST @ Canada Hockey Place

Canada VS. Russia Game Summary: www.vancouver2010.com/olympic-hockey/schedule-and-results/mens-play-offs-quarterfinals---game-24_ihm400302ow.html

Canada VS. Russia Photos: www.iihf.com/channels10/olympics-2010/pictures/page/0/game/RUS%20-%20CAN%20%28QF%29.html

From Andrew Podnieks of the International Ice Hockey Federation Website: www.iihf.com

Canada beat Russia for the first time in an Olympics since 1960 (Last 8 Olympics) in dominating fashion, winning 7-3 in a game that was lighting fast although seldom close.

Corey Perry led the way with 2 goals and an assist. In all, six different players scored for Canada. Only in 1960 when Canada beat the Soviet Union by an 8-5 score in Squaw Valley has the nation allowed more goals. Canada will now play the winner in the semi-finals on Friday at 6:30 PM Local Time against tonight's winner of Sweden VS. Slovakia. For the Russians, the 2010 Olympic Tournament is over.

"It was an electric atmosphere", said goalie Roberto Luongo, who is sure to start in the semi-final game. "It was a really fun to play in. With the lead, it was a bit more comfortable."

Canada's strategy was simple: the game is being played on small ice, so play the small ice game. This meant hitting Alexander Ovechkin every time he was near the puck, hitting anything and everything in sight. By the midway mark of the first period, no Russian player wanted to hang onto the puck for very long.

"It was a very physical game on both sides of the puck," said Mike Richards. "Ovie is used to that in the NHL. He's a marked guy everytime he's on the ice."

The Physical play had the Russians reeling from the opening faceoff, and the double whammy was the top-speed creativity the big-banging Canadians displayed once they had possesion. Tic-Tac-Toe passes were the norm on every shift as Russian Goalie Nabokov was sliding east and west trying to figure out who was shooting and who was passing.

Canada opened the scoring at 2:21 when defensemen Dan Boyle tore down the left wing and backhanded a pass to the slot where Getzlaf one-timed it past goalie Nabokov after defensemen Slava Kozlov failed to check Getzlaf with any purpose. The Canadians kept pressing, moving the puck fluidly out of their own end and maintaining possession in the Russian end to create scoring chances. Nabokov looked nervous, and Canadians played Ovechkin with the same physicality as 2004 when he was in the U20 Gold Medal Game.

Alexei Morozov had a good chance on a one-timer on a Russian power play, but he fanned on the shot. Ilya Kovalchuk let go another one timer that made it through traffic, but Luongo came across to make a nice save as the penalty expired.

The frenetic pace continued. Crosby drove hard down the left side and was hauled down by Anton Volchenkov for a penalty. On the ensuing power play a Boyle point shot was deftly redirected by Patrick Marleau through the pads to make a 2-0 Canada lead.

At 12:55 a fast break gave Canada a 3rd goal, Nash finishing off a beautiful passing play up the ice with Jonathan Towes and Mike Richards. Nash lifted the puck over Nabokov just as the goalie sprawled to try the Johnny Bower pokecheck. The astounding and relentless assault forced Russian coach Slava Bykov to call a timeout to try to settle down the team and quiet the crowd.

Indeed, the crowd grew silent, comfortable with the lead, and that's exactly when the Russians got one back at 14:39. Dmitri Kalinin's wrist shot from the point fooled Roberto Luongo and gave the Russians some life. But Canada didn't surrender. The mostly Canadian crowd started up again, and the players continued to attack. The team got that crucial fourth goal late in the period. Brenden Morrow walked out from behind the goal and tried a backhanded wraparound that rolled up Nabokov's body and behind him into the net for a 4-1 lead at 18:18. Shots favored Canada 21-12 in quite possibly the fastest period of hockey ever played.

Canada made it a 5-1 lead at 3:10 of the 2nd period on a harmless looking play when Getzlaf skated in over the blue line surrounded by four Russians. He took a shot that was blocked, but Corey Perry banged home a loose puck past a surprised Nabokov. And still, Bykov left the goalie in the net.

Less then a minute later, Canada got another goal on a center ice turnouver. Shea Weber finished things off with a bullet drive along the ice, off the far post and in at 4:07 to make it 6-1. This forced Nabokov to the showers in favor of IIya Bryzgalov.

Just 39 seconds later, Iiya Kovalchuk from Maxim Afinogenov flying down the right wing. Afinogenov cut in around defensemen Duncan Keith and beat Luonog to the far side to cut the lead to 2 goals. Just when it seemed the Canadians was sitting back and protecting the lead with half a game to play, they struck again on another gorgeous passing play. This time Getzlaf carried the puck in over the Russian line, slipped a pass ahead of Staal who moved it across ice to Perry. Perry's Quick shot to the open side hit the net for his 2nd of the night.

Luongo was called upon to make his best save when Alexander Radulov was open in the slot. Radulov made a nice deke, but Luongo stuck out his left leg to make a great toe save.

A too-many-men penalty gave Russia a power play, and Sergei Gonchar beat Luongo with a long shot to cut the lead in this high scoring game to 7-3. That's how the period ended to the delight of the crowd. Canada killed off an early penalty in the third period and then lost Staal after he collided hard into the end boards chasing down a long pass. No penalty was called on the play, but on the ensuing rush Gonchar drew a hooking penalty. Iginla hit the post on one sequence, but the score remained the same.

Luongo made his mark on the game by stoning Evgeni Malkin on a breakaway at 15:44, kicking out his right pad and sending the crowd into a frenetic "Looo"!

"I thought our energy and execution right from the drop of the puck was phenomenal." Eric Staal noted. "We came out with a jump. We were slowly boiling, and once the puck dropped to start the game, we were ready and firing. We got that goal to get us started right away, and the atmosphere and passion was unbelievable in here. It was a lot of fun out here."

Said a beleaguered Nabokov: "The first goal came too quick. They scored and just kept coming, We were not able to stop them, the SOG (42-28) tells it all."

Zach Parise beats out Hiller, Sends U.S.A. to Semifinals

At times today, it seemed like Jonas Hiller was standing on his head keeping it scoreless through 2 periods despite the U.S.A. out shooting Switzerland 32-8 through 2 periods. But Zach Parise who after Ryan Miller, maybe has been the best player for Team U.S.A. during the Olympic Tournament to send them to Semifinals who will play the lowest reaming seed during Friday's Semifinals at Canada Hockey Place.

You have got to give Switzerland and Jonas Hiller in particular a lot of props from getting to 3 OT games including forcing Canada to a SO.

Also giving the U.S.A. two stellar games where they proved they have been one of the fasting improving teams in the world. It's only a matter of time before Switzerland I think will finally break through and win an International Medal. After a strong performance in the WJC as they got to the Semifinals, and a strong showing in the Olympics for the 2nd straight time.

Despite not getting the massive upsets like they did in 2006, they have succeeded in letting the world know that 2006 was no joke. If Switzerland can start getting more players in the NHL, watch out for the Swiss to contend for an Olympic Medal in the near future. One player to watch out for in the near future could be Nino Niederreiter who had a strong showing for the Swiss for the Junior Team at the WJC and has had a great season with the Portland Winterhawks in the Western Hockey League.

The Swiss have two more shots at hockey glory this season at the U18 World Championships which will be in Belarus in April. Then in May is the Ice Hockey World Championships which will be in the German Cities of Mannheim, Colonge, and Gelsenkirchen where a world Record Attempt will be look to be set during Germany's Opening game of the IHWC. Expect the Swiss to be strong at both events in the spring.

For the Americans, this game was big that they can play against a desperate team that was looking to pull off a big upset. The Young American Players, especially guys like Ryan Miller, Zach Parise and Brian Rafalski who are playing in their First Olympics are showing that they can get it done against the best in the world.

Next up will be either the Czech Republic or Finland who finished with the Silver and Bronze Medals in 2006, the Americans have shown that playing teams in the Prelims and Quarterfinals that these guys are that good. Now they await they toughest test yet as they look to take down teams that are looking to win Gold after coming so close 4 years ago in Turin, Italy.

Next up for the U.S.A. will be the lowest remaining seeded team in the Semifinals coming up on Friday afternoon. With the win today by Team U.S.A., they will be guaranteed a chance at a medal this year. The Bronze Medal Game is on Saturday Night at 7:00 PM PST, then on Sunday afternoon is the Gold Medal Game as it's the final major event of these Winter Olympic Closing Ceremonies on Sunday Night.

From John Sanful of the International Ice Hockey Federation Website: http://www.iihf.com/

From Vancouver: The Americans dodged a bullet on Wednesday afternoon. Switzerland threatened to beat the U.S.A. since the 1948 Winter Olympic Games, but Zach Parise's power play goal in the third period gave the U.S.A. a 2-0 win, moving into the Semifinals against the Winner of the Czech Republic VS. Finland Game later tonight.

This was not the ideal scenario for Team U.S.A. After coming off a big win over Canada to finish atop Prelim Group A, Team U.S.A. entered this game meeting an opponent they've already beaten on the opening day of the Men's Tournament.

Prior to this game these teams have played each other 6 times in Olympic play with the U.S.A. winning all 6 prior games. But the Swiss would have none of it, Switzerland has grown accustomed to playing closely contested games. Their last 3 games have gone into OT and two shootouts. They played like a team that had nothing to lose, taking the play to the Americans.

"It was good to go into the intermission with a 0-0 game," said Yannick Weber. "I think it would have been different if it was 1-0." I think it gave us some confidence. We went out in the third period to get the win." It was close, but it just wasn't our day."

Team U.S.A. started tentatively, turning over the puck their first pass out of their zone. In addition there were several individual efforts that were unsuccessful. Rather then dump the puck and go after it, a few skaters tried to stickhandle through Swiss players, which was hardly effective.

The Swiss was rentless in pursuit of the puck. They enjoyed several odd-man rushes. Despite only four shots in the 1st period, the Swiss would also threaten, including one shift where Raffaele Sannitz had exceptional chances to score and delivered a big hit.

It was the Jonas Hiller Show today. Ryan Miller had to be extra sharp today as he faced odd man rushes and high percentage shots from the Swiss, whe were playing with incredible confidence. Miller was poised in goal. Jonas Hiller also stood strong for his team in goal, making 18 saves in the first period alone and keeping the Americans off the scoreboard.

In the 2nd period, Phil Kessel had the best chance for the Americans for the Americans when he sent a shot that rang off the post and crossbar. With time running out in the 2nd period, the Americans through that Dustin Brown had scored near the end of the 2nd. Hiller made a save then as the puck was in the air tried to bat it upwards, which he did but it went over his shoulder and on the goal line with no time left on the clock.

The play was reviewed and the officials concluded no goal.

"I was upset about the disallowed goal more then anything," said Ryan Kesler. "I though it was in. I didn't hear the horn until afterwards."

After two periods of play the Americans and Swiss remained tied. It appeared the inexperience and nerves of Team U.S.A. may have gotten the best of them. Only a big 3rd period would change things.

"It was good to go into the intermission with a 0-0 game," said Yannick Weber. "I think it would have been different if it was a 1-0. I think it game us some confidence. We went out in the 3rd period to get the win. It was close, but just wasn't our day."

The American Power Play was out of sync until the third period when Zach Parise put his team on the board when Philippe Furrer was called for Tripping.

Parise tapped his stick on the ice in front of Hiller, expecting a good low shot could be redirected. Brian Rafalski's shot was deflected by Parise over Hiller's glove and slowly dribbled into the net.

Swiss Assistant Captain, Sandy Jeannin appeared to have tied the game a few minutes later. Instant Replay showed that his shot hit the post and roll across the goal line, but didn't cross over the goal line. Parise had another chance but hit the post. Team U.S.A. picked up things significantly in the 3rd period. They were skating much more effectively and creating quality scoring chances.

"It'd be a lot less nerve wracking [to win big]," said Rafalski. "But it's good for our guys. It's a sign of maturity that we didn't panic. We didn't sit back, we continued to create chances."

The Swiss would not let up. With less then two minutes remaining they called a timeout to pull Jonas Hiller, but Parise scored his 2nd on an empty net. Now the Americans can take a breath and watch tonight's game at the UBC Thunderbird Arena to find out who they will play in Friday's Semifinal.

"Right now, we sit back and watch the Finns and Czechs play," said Rafalski. "We've run into Finland a lot over the years in recent international events, the Czechs, not so much. The Finns have good, deep goaltending, and both teams have good forwards. "It'll be a tough night either way".

Look for the Canada VS. Russia Game Report Later Tonight, then the Czech Republic VS. Finland and Sweden VS. Slovakia Game Reports tomorrow.

Offical Game Report: www.vancouver2010.com/olympic-hockey/schedule-and-results/mens-play-offs-quarterfinals---game-23_ihm400301xK.html

Game Photos: www.iihf.com/en/channels10/olympics-2010/pictures/page/0/game/USA%20-%20SUI%20%28QF%29.html

Team Canada Shuts out Finland, To Play the U.S.A. For Gold on Thursday

After the U.S.A. crushed Sweden, Canada used the 2nd semifinal to get a shutout against Finland to play for Gold against arch rival U.S.A. for the Gold Medal on Thursday night.

From Lucas Aykroyd of the International Ice Hockey Federation Website: www.iihf.com

The Canadian Women overcame a sparkling performance by Finnish Goaile Noora Raty, by winning 5-0 in Monday's 2nd Semifinal at Canada Hockey Place. The result sets up a classic U.S.A. VS. Canada Gold Medal Game on Thursday night.

Thanks to Ratys heroics, the score was closer then expected for most of the night, despite Canada's 50-11 edge in SOG. "I think it was like one of the best performances I've ever had", said Raty.

2010 marks the third time the North American Superpowers will battle for gold since Women's Hockey was introduced as an Olympic Sport back in 1998. The Americans beat Canada 3-1 that year in Nagano, while the Canadians claimed the title on Salt Lake City on 2002 with a 3-2 victory.

"It's an Olympic Final Game, and that's when we've been working toward all year," said Canada's Jennifer Botterill. "Were excited, we have a lot of work ahead of us, but we're going to enjoy it."

VS. Finland, Haley Irwin stepped up with two goals for Canada, and tournament scoring leader Meghan Agosta with 14 points (9G 5A) chipped in a goal and assist. Agosta sets a new record for most goals in One Olympic Tournament when she plotted her 9th of 2010 in the 2nd period. That surpassed retired Canadian great Danielle Goyette's mark of 8 back in 1998.

Canada is the defending Olympic Champion from Turin 2006, where it defeated Sweden 4-1 in the final. In Monday's early Semifinal, the Americans got revenge on Swedes, who knocked them out of title contention in Turin, spanking Sweden 9-1.

"In some ways, it was a little disappointing we didn't get to face the Americans in the 2006 Olympics," said Canadian veteran Jayna Hefford, who scored the gold medal winning goal in 2002. "Of course, you'll take a gold medal anyday over facing a particular team, but you know what? Canada-U.S.A. is something people love to watch and we love to play in. It's going to be a great battle on Thursday night.

Canada heads into the final with a whopping goal differential of 46-2 in 4 games so far. However, it failed to capitalize on the Power Play against Finland, even though the blue and white women took six minor penalty in the game.

"The Finns played a tough, in your face game and they were good with their sticks in the lanes," said Canadian captain Hayley Wickenheiser. "They made it hard for us to generate momentum, and their goalie was excellent. They gave us probably the best game they could with the skills they have."

"We just battled and we didn't quit," said Raty. Facing Sweden in Thursday's Bronze Medal game, will seek it's first Olympic Women's Hockey Medal since winning Bronze in 1998. The Diminutive but tenacious Finns did their best to clog up the middle and clear loose pucks out of their end, but simply couldn't generate enough offensively to support Raty's great play. They'd acknowledged before this game that ousting Canada would be a "humongous task", and it proved to be too much for them.

Finland starved off Canada's untill the 5:22 mark, when Agosta swirled around the Finnish net and centered a sweet backhand feed to Cherile Piper, who banged it past Raty. At 14:36, Just after a Finnish Penalty had expired, Haley Irwin picked up a loose puck in Raty's goal crease and shoveled it past the netminder's right skate for a 2-0 lead. The Canadians outshot Finland 15-2 in the 1st period.

The host team continued to press in the middle frame, and the Finnish netminder had to keep her best mini-Mikka Kiprusoff impression. Even though Raty Stonned Sarah Vaillancourt on a rebound at the end of an early power play and slid across to make a great glove save on Gina Kingsbury, she couldn't stop Agosta at 16:21 when the Ruthven, Ontario Native scooped in a rebound with the teams playing 4-on-4 when the buzzer sounded, the shots were 32-5 in favor of Canada.

Raty stopped Agosta on a partial breakaway early in the third period. But at 4:23, Irwin scored her 2nd of the game on a rebound that deflected in off the goalie's to make it 4-0. Wickenheiser put the puck off the post on a late solo rush. Jenni Hiirikoski was shaken up on a collision deep in the Finnish end with Gillian Apps with 4 minutes left.

Canadian Fans sang a spontaneous rendition of "O Canada" as the clock ticked down, and Caroline Ouellette rounded out the scoring with 1:03 left to make it 5-0.

With the Gold Medal Game looming, the Americans are the two time defending World Champion, but the Canada has the edge in exhibition leading up to the Vancouver Olympics.

"We know exactly what [Team USA's] motivation is going to be," said Hefford. "We've heard it many times. It's going to be Salt Lake, and it's going to be the "Miracle on Ice". Good for them, That's their experience. Our Experience as Canadian Hockey players is completely different, and we're so proud here in Canada. This crowd is giving us energy every night."

Netminder Shannon Szabados earned her first shutout of the tournament for Canada. "This team played well in front of me, and it's really exciting," said Szabados. "I didn't get many shots in the early going, which makes it tough to stay focused mentally. "You have to find ways to keep yourself occupied, because all these teams are good and they're going to get their chances eventually."

This was the third straight Olympic Semi-Final Victory for Canada over Finland. (7-3 in 2002, 6-0 in 2006).

U.S.A. Women Crush Sweden, Cruise to Gold Medal Game

After Team U.S.A. dominating performances in the Group Stage, the Americans continued their freight train to the final as the Americans made sure that a repeat of 2006 would not be in the cards as the Americans take down 9-1 to get back to the Final. The Americans will look to win their first Women's Hockey Gold Medal on Thursday night either against Canada or Finland since the tournament made its debut back in 1998.

From John Sanful of the International Ice Hockey Federation Website: www.iihf.com

Except for the possibility of facing Canada, Team U.S.A. has been awaiting this game.

Looking to avenge a 3-2 semifinal loss to Sweden at the 2006 Winter Olympics, Team U.S.A came into this game clearly motivated by the opportunity. With goals from 7 different skaters, Team U.S.A. Defeated Sweden 9-1.

The win moves Team U.S.A. into a gold medal showdown with either Canada or Finland on Thursday night at Canada Hockey Place.

We've trained hard for this and we're all fired up now that we're going to the gold medal game," said Meghan Duggan.

The 2010 U.S.A. Women's team bears no resemblance to the divided squad that was upset in Turin. This team is more focused on and committed to winning. Most important, there's no drama surrounding the team to distract from their main goal: winning.

In today's semifinal game, the Americans attack was balanced. Jenny Potter's leads the team in goal scoring but did not have to carry the offense as Monique Lamoreux had that covered. Team U.S.A. took the lead when Lamoureux, accepted a pass from Julie Chu and drove to the net.

Pernilla Winberg tried jamming in a shot but Jesse Vetter, who has been exceptional in the tournament, made the save. The Americans quickly turned things around off the transition, Lamoureux accepted a Julie Chu and made a power move to the net.

Duggan scored a power play goal off a Catlin Cahow rebound infront. The Goal came at 8:23 as Emma Eliasson was in the penalty box for body checking. Swedish goalie Kim Martin made the original save on Cahow's shot, but Duggan was there to tap the rebound home.

The Americans resumed their dominance of the Swedes in the 2nd period when Angela Ruggiero, Cahow, and Karen Thatcher added middle frame markers. Pernilla Winberg scored Sweden's only goal on the power play at 9:34 of the 2nd period.

By the 3rd period, the Americans were on top of their game. Lamoureux added two goals in the third to register a hat trick. Julie Chu, who had members of her family in attendance, and Kim Stack also tallied in the period. U.S.A has one more game, and it will be a big one.

"It is now a one game season for us, said Chu. "It will take sixty minutes of hard work and we have to get the puck to the net, but there will be no surprises. Sweden will face the loser of the Canada-Finland game in the Bronze Medal Game on Thursday afternoon.

Game Summary: www.vancouver2010.com/olympic-hockey/schedule-and-results/womens-play-offs-semifinals---game-15_ihw400201Bk.html

U.S.A. VS. Sweden Photos: www.iihf.com/de/channels10/olympics-2010/pictures/page/0/game/USA%20-%20SWE%20%28SF%29.html

Huge 3rd period sends USA To WJC Final against Canada

The Americans will get a chance at revenge and a gold medal after a huge 3rd period helped them pull away from a tough Sweden team and get to a date with Canada for a shot at ending Canada's 5 year Gold Medal Streak in the World Junior Championship. The game tomorrow night will start at 8:00 PM EST/7:00 PM CST on the NHL Network and on www.fasthockey.com.

As for the Bronze Medal Game, it will be Sweden playing this year's big surprise in Switzerland where after a slow start, have really come on with important wins over Slovakia and Latvia to get them into the QF's before pulling off arguably the biggest upset this year against Russia back on Saturday night.

Just like the first game back on New Years Eve, the Final should be even better and I'm making a call right now that it will be close and the USA will win the WJC and end Canada's WJC Gold Medal Streak. However, they need to work on the PP where a huge 5 minute power play early int he 3rd period went basically no where and could have been a big game changer early on in the 3rd.

Press Release from the USA Hockey. www.usahockey.com

Jerry D'Amigo scored twice including a 3rd period shorthanded goal, as the U.S. Junior National team beat Sweden 5-2, in the semifinals of the 2010 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship. The USA will face Canada for the Gold Medal game on January 5 at 7:00 PM CST (8:00 PM EST) at the Credit Union Center in Saskatoon.

"We've gotten better every game of the tournament," said Den Blais, head coach of the U.S.A. National Junior Team. "We worked really hard tonight, and we put ourselves right in the position we wanted to be.

Team USA scored the lone goal of the 1st period less then 2 minutes into the game. Kyle Palmieri fed Tyler Johnson in the slot, who sent a shot high past Sweden goalie Jacob Markstrom.

Sweden took a 2-1 lead in the 2nd period thanks to a pair of goals by Anton Lander. But D'Amigo tied the game with 5 minutes remaining in the frame by chipping the puck off the boards to himself in the neutral zone. racing towards the net and beating Markston between the pads 5 hole to tie it at 2-2.

Team USA regained the lead with 12 minutes into the 3rd period with John Carlson long slap shot trickled past Markstrom and over the goal line. Then, while killing a penalty, the U.S. and D'Amigo struck again. Team USA's player of the game took a pass from captain Derek Stepan on a two on one break and shot a wrister over Markstrom's shoulder.

AJ Jenks tallied a last minute empty net goal to put the game out of reach. Mike Lee earned his 4th victory of the tournament, stopping 27 saves in the win. Swedish Goalie Markstrom stopped 29 saves in the loss.

Team USA's gold Medal game against Canada can be seen live in the U.S. on the NHL Network and live streaming on www.fasthockey.com

NOTES: The U.S. is returning to the gold medal game of the World Junior Championships for the 3rd time. Team USA is 1-1 in previous gold medal games. The U.S. won it's only gold Medal in 2004 against Canada. Team USA is only the third team ever to emerge from the Quarterfinal Round to emerge in the World Junior Championship Gold Medal Game. Derek Stepan leads all skaters with 12 points including 9 assists. The 2010 IIHF World Junior Championship runs December 26-January 5 in Regina and Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. For Team USA full schedule results, click on www.usahockey.com/world_junior_championships_2010/default.aspx?NAV=AF_04&ID=263322 The NHL Network and www.fasthockey.com will air every USA game live from Saskatoon. Canada defeated Switzerland, 6-1, in the other semifinal game. For Complete Results and stats from the entire tournament, log on to www.iihf.com For Full Coverage of the 2010 U.S.A. Junior National Team, including photos, videos and features. log on to www.usahockey.com


Game Summary

USA 5 Sweden 2 (1-0, 1-2, 3-0)

1st Period: 1, USA, Johnson (Palmieri), 1:24

2nd Period: 2, SWE, Landler (Rodin, Andersson) 4:17; 3, SWE Landler (Rodin, Silfverberg), 12:17; 4, USA D'Amigo (Carlson, Gardiner) 15:06

3rd Period: 5, USA Carlson (Morin) 12:34; 6, USA D'Amigo (Stepan) 15:32 (SH); 7, USA, Jenks (Morin) 19:05 (EN)


Shots by Period

USA 11, 15, 8 34
SWE 8,11,10 29


Goaltenders

USA, Lee 8-8, 11-9, 10-10 29-27

SWE, Markstrom 11-10, 15-14, 7-5 33-29


Power Play: USA 0/5 SWE 0/3
Penalties: USA 4-8, SWE 6-35
Attendance: 12.137

12/31: USA Gets Edged in SO

The USA ended the Group Stage of the WJC with a game against Cross Border Rival's Canada for the top spot in Group A and an automatic spot in the Semifinals. After going up 4-2 late in the 2nd period, the USA seemed to be in control until Canada goals by Eberle and Pietrangelo helped the Canadians tie the game before Kozun clinched it in the SO.

Press Release from the USA Hockey Website. www.usahockey.com

The U.S. Junior National Team scored two shorthanded goals but fell to Canada, 5-4, in a shootout in it's final prelim round game of the 2010 IIHF World Junior Championship. The US (3-0-1-0) will face Finland in the Quarterfinals on Saturday at 8:00 PM.

"Tonight was a great hockey game for these 2 countries," said Dean Blais, head coach of the U.S. National Junior Team. "It's tough to lose when a game goes to a shootout like tonight. But I thought both teams played great.

Team USA answered an early Canada goal with a power play goal 4 minutes into the opening frame. Phillip Macrea collected a rebound in front of the net and buried a quick wrist shot passed Canada goalie Jake Allen to tie the game 1-1.

The USA took a 2-1 2nd period lead while shorthanded. Tyler Johnson stripped a Canada Forward in the defensive zone and fed a streaking Jordan Schroeder at center ice. Schroeder fired a shot through Allen's pads for his 2nd goal of the tournament.

Following Canada's 2nd goal of the night, team USA regained the lead with 11 seconds left in the 2nd period. Shorthanded once again, Jerry D'Amigo broke in on a 2 on 1 rush and fired a shot on net. Johnson battled in the rebound to give the U.S. a 3-2 advantage.

Just one minute into the third period, Team USA took a 4-2 lead when Danny Kristo cut to the net, deked and beat Allen down low. But Canada tied the score with goals from Jordan Eberle and Alex Pietrangelo, sending the game into Overtime.

A scoreless extra frame sent both teams into a shootout. Despite goals by Team USA's Kristo and Jeremy Morin, Canada connected on all three shootout chances to come away with the victory. Canada, which received a bye into the semifinal, will await the winner of the Russia VS. Switzerland Quarterfinal game.

Team USA Goalie Jack Campbell turned aside 30 shots in the shootout defeat, while Allen made 24 saves in the victory. Team USA's Quarterfinal game will be against Finland can be seen in the USA on NHL Network and on www.FASTHockey.com

NOTES: Tyler Johnson was named Team USA's Player of the game. The 2010 IIHF World Junior Championships runs December 26 thru Jan. 5 in Saskatoon and Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada. The NHL Network and www.fasthockey.com will every U.S. Game live from Saskatoon. In other tournament action Sweden beat Finland 7-1, to win Group B. Switzerland beat Slovakia 4-1, to advance to the Quarterfinals; and Russia knocked off the Czech Republic 5-2 to secure 2nd place in Group B. For complete results and stats from the tournament, visit www.iihf.com


Game Summary

Canada 5 U.S.A. 4 (1-1, 1-2, 2-1, 0-0, 1-0)

1st Period: 1, CAN, Della-Rovere (Adam, Caron), 2:03; 2, USA, Macrae (D'Amigo), 3:40.

2nd Period: 3, USA, Schroeder (Johnson), 7:08 (SH); 4, CAN, Eberle (Schenn, Scandella), 11:15, 5, Johnson (D'Amigo), 19:49 (SH)

3rd Period: 6, Kristo (Stepan), 1:01; 7, CAN, Eberle (Schenn, Mcmillan) 10:03; 8,CAN Pietrangelo (Unassisted), 15:45 (SH)

OT: No Scoring

SO: CAN, Eberle (Goal), USA, Kristo (Goal), CAN, Kadri (Goal), USA Morin (Goal), CAN Kozun (Goal), USA Schroeder (No Goal)

Shots on Goal

CAN: 10-9-9-6-1 35
USA: 9-11-7-1-0 28

Goaltenders

CAN, Allen 9-8, 11-9, 7-6, 1-1, 0-0 28-24
USA, Campbell 10-9, 9-8, 9-7, 6-6, 1-0 35-30

Power Play: CAN 0/6, USA 1/4
Penalties: CAN 4-8, USA 6-12
Att: 15,171

2010 Olympic Tournament Schedule

Here's the schedule for the 2010 Olympic Ice Hockey Tournament when it gets underway on Feb. 16 2010. Nearly all the games will be hosted at the GM Center in Vancouver which is the home of the Vancouver Canucks.

Tournament Format:

The 12 teams will start the tournament in 3 groups of 4 where each team will play in a 3 game group stage. Then after the groups finish up, the 3 group winners and the next best team will get automatic passage to the Quarterfinals will the rest of the teams will play in the 2nd round where they will be ranked from 5-12 and will be ranked on the number of points and the GD from the group stage.

The numbers in brackets next to the teams are the pre touranment seedings.

All 12 teams have to have the rosters offical by New Year's Eve.

Group Stage

Group A
Canada (1)
U.S.A. (6)
Switzerland (7)
Norway (12)

Group B
Russia (2)
Czech Republic (5)
Slovakia (8)
Latvia (11)

Group C
Sweden (3)
Finland (4)
Belarus (9)
Germany (10)

2/16
USA VS. Switzerland (A)
Canada VS. Norway (A)
Russia VS. Latvia (B)

2/17
Finland VS. Belarus (C)
Sweden VS. Germany (C)
Czech Republic VS. Slovakia (B)

2/18
USA VS. Norway (A)
Switzerland VS. Canada (A)
Slovakia VS. Russia (B)

2/19
Belarus VS. Sweden (C)
Czech Republic VS. Latvia (B)
Finland VS. Germany (C)

2/20
Norway VS. Switzerland (A)
Latvia VS. Slovakia (B)
Germany VS. Belarus (C)

2/21
Russia VS. Czech Republic (B)
Canada VS. USA (A)
Sweden VS. Finland (C)

2/22
Off Day

Qualification Round

2/23
5D VS. 12D (Winner will become E1)
6D VS. 11D (Winner will become E2)
7D VS. 10D (Winner will become E3)
8D VS. 9D (Winner will become E4)

If the USA plays in the Qualification Round, they will play the 12:00 PM Game
If Canada plays in the Qualification Round, they will play the 4:30 PM Game

Quarterfinals

The 4 teams that earned Qualification Round Byes will have Home Ice

2/24
1D VS. 4E
2D VS. 3E
3D VS. 2E
4D VS. 1E

If the USA is playing in the Quarterfinals, that game will be at 12:00 PM
If Canada is playing in the Quarterfinals, that game will be at 4:30 PM

2/25
Off Day

2/26
Semifinals

F1 VS. F4
F2 VS. F3

If the USA plays in the Semifinals, that game will be the early game
If Canada plays in the Semifinals, that game will be the late game

The highest seed will play the lowest seed and the 2nd seed while play the 3rd seed.

2/27
Bronze Medal Game

Semifinals Losers

2/28
Gold Medal Game

Semifinal Winners