The line of collegians Derek Stepan, Jerry D’Amigo and Danny Kristo combined for three goals and a plus-12 rating as the United States rallied for a 7-3 victory over Slovakia Saturday in its opening game of the World Junior Championship.
Despite outshooting Slovakia 46-20, the Americans had to rally from a 2-0 deficit in the first period. They did so with a goal by defenseman John Carlson in the first period and four more scores in a dominating second period.
Jeremy Morin, Wisconsin’s Stepan, Denver’s Matt Donovan and North Dakota’s Kristo scored in the second as the Americans turned a 2-1 deficit into a 5-3 lead.
Minnesota’s Jordan Schroeder and Rensselaer’s D’Amigo scored in the third period.
St. Cloud State’s Mike Lee overcame a shaky start — the Slovaks scored two power-play goals in the first period — to make 17 saves.
“I was happy with our resiliancy after falling behind early,” U.S. coach Dean Blais said. “We created a lot of scoring chances and showed a lot of poise after those two quick goals.”
The Americans play Switzerland at 4 p.m. Eastern on Sunday.
Morning skates: US and Slovakia
Canada vs. Latvia. Latvia includes 4 players that currently play in the US.
USA vs. Slovakia. In addition to current and future college players on the US roster, Radoslav Illo (Slovakia – 17) has committed to Bemidji.
