USA Wins 2009 IIHF World Junior Championship

Saskatoon, SK

After a gritty semi-final effort seeing the United States past Sweden 5:2, the USA faced Canada in the final match of the World Junior ice hockey tournament on Tuesday.

It was a similar match to the 4:4 group game the USA played against Canada. Canada won the shootout, as there was little separating the two teams.

In the Final, it was again proven that there was little between the two sides as they would exchange the lead three times over the first two periods.

With the United States leading 5:3 late in the 3rd and final period, a heroic effort by Canada culminated in two late goals scored over a span of 1:14 by the skillful, dynamic Jordan Eberle. Eberle would go on to be named Best Forward at the tournament. Well deserved accolade for the young Canadian.

Displaying closely-knit team play, gritty determination and some fine goaltending by young Jack Campbell, the United States held off Canada’s attempt to score a last gasp winner and forced overtime.

The overtime would see a shock winner scored by defenseman John Carlson, his second of the match. The sudden-death goal, scored 4:31 into the period clinched a gold medal for the United States and ended the Canadian’s streak of 5 consecutive World Junior championships.

In victory, USA captain Derek Stepan showed admiration for the skill of Eberle and Canada. Exemplifying class well beyond his years, Stepan credited his teammates and coach Dean Blais in helping to secure the title for the Americans.

This young team led by such players as Jordan Schroeder, Chris Kreider, Ryan Bourque, Mike Lee, Jack Campbell, Jerry D’Amigo, Derek Stepan, John Carlson, Cam Fowler and Danny Kristo, are perhaps giving us a glimpse of the team that may play in Sochi, Russia for the 2014 Winter Olympics. The exploits of the Americans, Canadians, and the Swedes (who convincingly defeated Switzerland 11:4 in the bronze medal match) have certainly given us a preview as to who may be selected in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft that will be held this Summer.

After the USA had won, the predominantly Canadian supporters in the stadium stood and applauded. A classy display by civilized and decent people. I hope that if the situation is reversed in Buffalo, New York with Canada defeating America that the mostly Americans in attendance will show the same respect and sportsmanship.

Well done United States, well done Canada.