Some say the best team always wins. For the most part that holds true, but, here at these World Juniors, the best team Team Sweden, that statement didn't quite measure up, not when it counted the most.
Team Canada defeated Team Sweden in tonight's Gold Medal game by a score of 3-1.
The Swedes outshot Canada in every period, yet the Canadians were given ample opportunity on five power play advantages to create some real damage on the scoreboard. Even though Canada went 0/5 with the man advantage, they made the most of their scoring chances with some precise sharpshooting.
After a scoreless first period, Canada's Dillon Dub? made the most of a Jordan Kyrou pass, went on the rush, split the Swedish defence and high shot it past Swedish 'keeper Gustavvson.
Sweden countered to tie it a mere few seconds later.
With the game still tied in the third period, and with barely five minutes of regulation time remaining, Canada's Tyler Steenburgen's redirection of a point shot by Conor Timmons proved to be the winning goal. Team Sweden kept pressing valiantly, forcing Canadian goaltender Carter Hart to come up against some tough shots. With the seconds ticking down, Alex Fromenton scored the empty netter that Gold-sealed the win for Team Canada.
Ah, glory! What a feeling it must be!
Congratulations to Team Canada on a job very well done indeed, a roster that on paper didn't seem to impress hockey pundits.
To Team Sweden, we congratulate you on a tremendously successful overall tournament.
Fans of the Toronto Maple Leafs can hardly wait for the day Timothy Lillejgren joins the Blue & White!
Game story:
http://www.cbc.ca/sports/hockey/nhl/canada-sweden-world-juniors-championship-1.4475738
