(Edmonton) There was no classic atmosphere of a meeting between Canada and Russia on Thursday. The game was not as competitive as tradition suggests when these two teams cross swords.
The Maple Leaf scored four first-period goals in front of a handful of fans at Rogers Place and prevailed 6-4 over Russia in a pre-season game for the world junior hockey championship.
Let’s say we weren’t at the Serie du Siècle, especially since the score did not reflect the pace of the match.
Mason McTavish hit the target twice and collected an assist. His line-mate Kent Johnson scored a goal and registered an assist.
I think they circulated the puck well. The chemistry between two players is a hard thing to define, but for them to develop it so quickly, it’s exciting.
Dave Cameron, head coach of the Canadian squad on the duo of Kent and McTavish
“We have a great connection,” McTavish said of his relationship with Johnson. He always puts me in advantageous situations. It’s a pleasure to play with him. ”
Lukas Cormier, Ridly Greig and Conor Bedard were the other scorers for the winners.
Matvei Michkov scored a brace for the Russians. He was named player of the game for his team.
“His shot stands out,” analyzed the maple leaf striker Cole Perfetti in relation to the emerging Russian star. He can count. It’s the first time I’ve seen him play. You can’t really give him multiple chances to land his shot. ”
Nikita Chibrikov and Alexander Pashin also found the back of the net for Sergei Zubov’s troupe.
Dylan Garand stopped 14 of 15 shots, then Sebastian Cossa allowed three goals on 11 shots.
The Canadian pilot said he has yet to confirm who will be Canada’s starting goalie.
“I don’t have a plan yet, my thinking is underway. ”
Yaroslav Askarov turned back 24 of 29 shots before being replaced by Yegor Guskov, who made eight saves on nine shots.
Other results
The preparatory game that was to take place Thursday evening in Red Deer between Czechia and Switzerland has been canceled in connection with COVID-19 protocols.
Hockey Canada took the news on Twitter, but did not say which team or how many players were affected by the situation.
In the other game scheduled in Edmonton, Finland scored three goals in the same major penalty, two late in the third period and the deciding overtime, and defeated the United States 4-3.
The second game on the program saw Germany bend their backs by a score of 4-0 against Slovakia.
Canada faces the Czechs on December 26, the first official day of the tournament.