Friday, August 20, 2010

U.S. Under-17 Select Team Drops 3-2 Decision to Slovakia at 2010 Under-17 Five Nations Tournament

Press Release

HUTTWIL, Switzerland - Kyle Osterberg (Lakeville, Minn.) and Jordan Masters (Rochester, N.Y.) each scored to give the U.S. a two-goal lead, but the U.S. Under-17 Select Team fell to Slovakia, 3-2, here today at the 2010 Under-17 Five Nations Tournament.


"We generated a lot of offense, but we have to do a better job of driving to the net with and without the puck," said Sean Tremblay, head coach of the U.S. Under-17 Select Team. "If we do that, we will put ourselves in a position to win the tournament."


After a scoreless first period, Osterberg gave Team USA a 1-0 edge just 53 seconds into the second frame. Troy Donnay (Fenton, Mich.) led the rush out of the defensive zone and dropped the puck to Osterberg, who sent a one-timer over the glove of Slovakian goaltender Richard Sabol.


The U.S. extended its lead to 2-0 less than four minutes later. After applying pressure in front of Slovakia's net, Masters wrapped around the goal and poked the loose puck in behind Sabol for the score. Justin Wade (Aurora, Ill.) collected an assist on the play.


Slovakia cut its deficit in half with a four-on-four goal, and then tied the game, 2-2, with just over one minute remaining in the second period. Marko Dano scored the lone third-period goal to give Slovakia the win.


Goaltender Brandon Hope (Canton, Mich.) stopped 16 shots for Team USA in the loss, while Sabol made 44 saves for Slovakia.


The U.S. Under-17 Select Team will next face Switzerland tomorrow (Aug. 21) at 1:30 p.m. EDT.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

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