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It was only the first game that counted and in a round robin, it doesn't count all that much, but there was much to learn as the United States played Canada in Montreal.
U.S. coach Ron Wilson wanted to use the game to gauge his team and watch the goaltending situation play out. Here are the three biggest observations off of Tuesday night's game:
The most important thing for the United States was Robert Esche's play in goal. He was outstanding in a first period when the Americans were outplayed up-and-down the ice (and out shot 16-to-9) and he was forced to save them time and time again. If it had been 5-0 Canada after the first period, no one could have blamed Esche. The fact that the period ended with the Canadians only having a one-goal lead was a tribute to Esche and even though it was only one game, he answered the U.S. goalie question. He is the answer.
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Unfortunately, the defense couldn't help out goalkeeper Robert Esche.
(Jacques Boissinot / AP) |
The team in front of Esche was as advertised. The defense looked porous and beat often, split up the middle or outskated on the outside. The penalties they took were those of lazy players or players who were a step behind — hooking and interference. And they got away with a lot that wasn't called. If the officials decide to call it tight and let these players skate, the United States will be in even more trouble. The forwards didn't get back enough nor did they create nearly enough in the Canadian zone for most of the game. There is work to do to come anywhere near a defense of the title.
Despite being outplayed, and with the substantial help from Esche, the U.S. somehow kept it a game. They dragged the Canadians to their level in the second period and mucked up the first period's high-flying pace. This also showed what Canada's weak spot may be — overwhelming an opponent early can lead to a Canadian let down that could be game-costing against certain opponents.
Kara Yorio is a staff writer for Sporting News. Email her at kyorio@sportingnews.com.
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