The boys in Blue with Red and White trim were all over the ice controlling much of the action. Many posts and cross bars gave chances early into the game.  It was still all tied at zero through the first period.

Period number two started quickly as Sweden took advantage of their power play and Sandberg gave them the early lead. That was only the second power play goal allowed by the Americans this tournament. Special teams and Goalie play carried them to Gold. John Gibson was spectacular in net. Rocco Grimaldi answered with a pair of goals to give the US the lead after two periods of play. Each team had chances in the third and action was end to end. An empty net goal was added but no further scoring was needed. 3-1 victory meant Gold for the USA and Silver for Sweden.

Team Canada one of the favorites were sent packing without a medal of any color. They were obviously upset and disappointed but their frustration showed as a Canadian swung his stick in a threatening manner at a taunting Russian skater who was shaking his jersey toward the benches after the final buzzer. These teams obviously hate each other. The home team salvaged a Bronze medal for Mother Russia with a 6-5 victory in which it was all Russia early. Team Canada got some nice bounces to make it close but not enough to silence the home crowd. First time in seventeen tries the Canadians went without a medal.

Team USA’s bench exploded in celebration after the empty net goal. Defending champs Sweden sat  on and off the ice in disbelief as they were not able to get much going this game.

Players of the tournament for Team USA were John Gibson, Jacob Trouba, and Johm Gaudreau. Gibson added top goalie of tournament and Trouba was top defensemen.

Team MVP went to John Gibson who was very deserving and had stats to but him at the top of many categories. He even racked up assists.

Gibson had 28 saves but found himself in a tough position when the game winner was netted.  Jacob Trouba stayed hot this tournament by scoring the American’s only goal to tie the contest up and set up a thrilling finish. The Russians did just enough to win although they did not control the action early on.

Vladimir Tkachyov and Albert Yarullin scored for the Russian squad to give them the lead in round play for the moment winning in regulation and getting all 3 points.

Team USA will get a day off before facing defending champs Team Canada early Sunday morning on the NHL network starting at 2:30 MST.

I must say after the Phoenix Coyotes and it’s affiliates. It just doesn’t ever get better than watching Team USA on the ice. Whether the Olympics, World Championships, Juniors, or any level to wear the Red, White, and Blue. Brings back memories of the Miracle on Ice in Lake Placid which started it all over 3 decades ago.

Speaking of 1980, it’s hard not to have memories explode to the top of your brain every time these two teams face off against each other at any level. The Russians are always competitive and never make for a dull hockey game. USA vs Russia in marbles is an edge of your seat competition. Canada may be the cream right now but there is a close crop including the US and Russia. Czechs always bring it and just when you start to forget a Finland or Sweden team breaks the hearts of many.

Scoring Summary