Canada bounced back on Day 2 of the Women’s U-18 World Hockey Championship, and the USA continued its dominance, securing a spot in the semifinals.
Here is a recap from each game, and day two’s three stars:
Canada – 3 vs. Sweden – 1
Canada got in the win column peppering 56 shots on Swedish netminder Lisa Jonsson who was spectacular in goal. Notably, Canada took more shots from the house, getting pucks to the middle of the ice. Rhea Hicks scored twice, once on a three-on-one and her second, picking up a loose puck off the draw and walking to the slot.
After a rocky start, Sweden settled in and in the third period outshot Canada. Overall, Canada brought a higher tempo game. They were quicker on the puck and did not give up on as many second chances. Captain Nicole Hall had several point-blank chances for the Swedes, while her linemate Mira Markstrom showed great creativity with the puck. Their line was the main threat for Sweden.
USA – 5 vs. Finland – 0
Team USA looked dominant yet again. The team’s ability to capitalize on in-zone movement, cycling the puck high and laterally moving across the ice to open passing lanes and create space led to offense time and again. Tessa Janecke scored a highlight-reel goal, and Laila Edwards continued to quietly overpower her opponents using her vision and strength to get to the net, including shoveling home the American’s first goal, and driving to the net for the USA’s final tally.
One aspect not to be overlooked in USA’s constant puck control is the strength of their blueline. Sydney Morrow, Grace Dwyer, and Laney Potter effectively defend, but each is capable of single-handedly moving the puck out of their zone.
Finland could not repeat their game one upset, but continued to get key contributions from Sanni Vanhanen and captain Anna-Kaisa Anttto-Roiko. Vanhanen in particular was exceptional.
Czechia – 6 vs. Germany – 2
Czechia looks like the cream of the crop in Group B, and it’s their forward group driving play….
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