Under-18 Team Edged by Sweden in Four Nations Opener

Press Release

TURKU, Finland - Jack Eichel (North Chelmsford, Mass.) notched two goals, but the U.S. National Under-18 Team was edged by Sweden, 3-2, here this evening at Kupittaa Arena. The game opened the 2013 Under-18 Four Nations Tournament.

"Overall the team played very well and dominated most of the game, but the 5-on-3 goal in the third period proved costly," said Danton Cole, head coach of the U.S. National Under-18 Team. "We'll get right back to work, regroup and focus on tomorrow's game against Finland."

Sweden tallied the lone goal of the opening period at 15:52. Team USA fired five shots on net in the frame, but didn't score and entered intermission down 1-0.

Eichel knotted the game, 1-1, at 7:40 of the second stanza. The power-play strike was assisted on by Brandon Fortunato (North Hills, N.Y.). Sweden regained its lead, 2-1, potting a goal at 17:28.

Eichel's second goal tied the game once more, when he found the back of the net at 8:11 of the third period. Sonny Milano (Massapequa, N.Y.) and Alex Tuch (Baldwinsville, N.Y.) registered assists on the tally. The U.S. was whistled for back-to-back penalties midway through the frame and Sweden capitalized on the ensuing 5-on-3 for the eventual game-winning goal.

Edwin Minney (Wind Gap, Pa.) kicked out 22 shots in the loss for Team USA, while Linus Soderstrom also made 22 saves in the victory for Sweden.

The U.S. National Under-18 Team will continue tournament play against Finland tomorrow (Nov. 9) at 10 a.m. EST. The game will be held at Kupittaa Arena.


(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)