Team USA defeated Canada 4-2 in their Beijing Olympic men’s ice hockey preliminary round showdown on Saturday, outskating their archrivals and preying on Canadian mistakes.
Captain Andy Miele had a goal and an assist, while goalie Strauss Mann made 35 saves for the U.S. (2-0-0), which took over first place in Group A ahead of Canada (1-1-0). The last win for Team USA over Canada in men’s Olympic hockey was on Feb. 21, 2010, at the Vancouver Winter Games.
It was a statement win for the Americans. While Canada brought a veteran-laden team to Beijing — their captain, Eric Staal, is a 17-year NHL veteran — the U.S. roster comprises primarily NCAA players. Their moments of inexperience were overshadowed by their speed and tenacious forechecking against Canada.
“We didn’t back down from their physical play,” Miele said. “I love the way our team responded. I’m so proud of this…
