By Mary Cunningham
Team USA defeated Canada 4-2 in the Beijing Olympic men’s ice hockey preliminary round.
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.
KENNY AGOSTINO!
He won the National Championship in 2013 with @YaleMHockey, and now puts @TeamUSA two up over Canada! #WinterOlympics | #WatchWithUS
? : @USA_Network and @peacockTV
? : https://t.co/DaRR18atEa pic.twitter.com/Z6pX0JERbZ— NBC Olympics (@NBCOlympics) February 12, 2022
