U.S. tops Canada for 6th straight Para Hockey Cup gold medal
Josh Hargis scores eventual game-winner
The United States' national para hockey team extended its impressive dynasty to six straight Para Hockey Cup gold medals by defeating Canada in a tightly contested 2-1 game on Saturday at the Canadian Tire Para Hockey Cup in Paradise, N.L.
It represented the seventh silver and 13th medal overall at the tournament for Canada, which also boasts five gold and a bronze.
"I thought it was an amazing game. The atmosphere was electric and [Paradise] put on a tremendous event," said Canadian captain Tyler McGregor of Forest, Ont. "It was a physical and fast game, exactly what we'd expect out of a matchup against the U.S."
Declan Farmer scored the game's opening goal in the second period to put the Americans on top after a scoreless first, and Josh Hargis added a goal just over five minutes into the third period to extend the lead. Brody Roybal notched assists on both American goals.
WATCH | United States wins 6th straight Para Hockey Cup:
Billy Bridges of Summerside, P.E.I., brought the Canadians within a goal after scoring just over a minute later with his 189th career goal, but it was too little too late as the Americans claimed another gold medal.
"I thought we showed a lot of resilience and persistence in battling back," McGregor said. "I think the product on the ice, not only tonight but all week, was outstanding and for our sport that's exactly what we asked for."
Ontario natives Tyler McGregor and Rob Armstrong assisted Bridges' goal.
Dominic Larocque of Quebec City made 19 saves for Canada, while Steve Cash turned away six for the U.S.
The Americans outshot Canada 21-7.
Russia downed the Czech Republic for bronze earlier on Saturday.