Canada Finishes Off Perfect Round Robin Schedule

Team Canada took on the Russian squad in their final game of the round robin portion of the tournament tonight, capping off their perfect record with a 3-1 victory. With that victory, Canada clinched top spot in the North American pool ensuring they will play the fourth seed this coming Wednesday in the quarter finals and all their remaining games in Toronto.

The game started with the Russians putting a lot of pressure on the Canadians but as the game wore on, Team Canada was able to take over and generate constant scoring opportunities. Team Canada opened the scoring in the second period with a short-handed goal from Brad Richards. Kris Draper added a second goal minutes later by tapping in a loose puck infront of the net. Joe Sakic scored Team Canada’s third goal in the third period also by tapping in a rebound from in close.

Team Canada made one lineup change out of necessity for this game by inserting Jay Bouwmeester in place of the injured Wade Redden. Redden injured his shoulder in Team Canada’s previous game against Slovakia. It is touch and go as to whether he will be able to play again for Canada in this tournament.

At the end of the round robin portion of the tournament, Team Canada seems to be rounding into a very powerful unit. The offensive attack looks lethal no matter which line is on the ice. The defense has been solid and the goaltending, provided by Martin Brodeur, has also been spectacular.

Team Canada is off until Wednesday when they will take on which ever team finishes in the fourth seed of the North American pool in the quarter finals at Air Canada Centre.