Gavin McKenna scored twice within a minute and 45 seconds in the first period, leading Canada to a 6-3 victory over Sweden at the world men’s under-18 hockey championship on Thursday. Jett Luchanko, Malcolm Spence, Matthew Schaeffer, and Carson Wetsch also contributed goals, with Porter Martone providing two assists.
Despite accumulating 51 penalty minutes, Canada’s awesome penalty kill limited Sweden to a single power play goal. Coach Gardiner MacDougall praised his team’s performance, acknowledging the emotional intensity of the game and the need to refine certain aspects, but expressed satisfaction with the group’s strong start.
Sweden’s Alexander Zetterberg ( Örebro HK J20) showcased his talent with two goals and an assist, supported by Melvin Fernstrom’s (Orebro HK J20) goal and Love Harenstam’s 20 saves. After a 4-1 lead in the first period, Zetterberg’s second goal narrowed the gap to one. However, Schaefer’s subsequent goal regained Canada’s momentum, and George’s nine saves in the third period secured the win.
Forward Tij Iginla, who had an assist, acknowledged the impact of penalties on the team’s performance but expressed confidence in their win. Canada will face Czechia in their next game on Friday.
