WHL Brandon Wheat Kings

Canada Blasts Finns

Published on December 27, 2005 under Western Hockey League (WHL)
Brandon Wheat Kings News Release


Vancouver, B.C. -- On a day when Canadian shoppers go hunting for bargains, Team Canada fans were clearly sold on what the 2005 World Junior edition has to offer.

Dustin Boyd of the Western Hockey League's Moose Jaw Warriors led the way with two goals as Canada defeated Finland 5-1 in the Boxing Day tournament opener in front of over 16,000 fans at Vancouver's Pacific Coliseum, many sporting red and white jerseys.

Blake Comeau added a goal and an assist and Andrew Cogliano had two helpers, while David Bolland and Kyle Chipchura also scored for the host team.

"We had to play to our identity," said Canadian head coach Brent Sutter. "In our past history with these two countries, when we play each other it's a pretty North American styled game. The Finns play hard. We knew that we would have to match that and go beyond that."

Aki Seitsonen, who plays for the WHL's Prince Albert Raiders, had the only goal for the visitors.

Justin Pogge made 16 saves for the victory, while Finland's Tuukku Rask had 26 stops. Both goalies are drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs.

It was a solid, physical game for the entire Canadian roster, while the Finns' confidence seemed to deflate with each Canadian goal.

Canada's next game is Wednesday afternoon vs. Switzerland.

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Western Hockey League Stories from December 27, 2005


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