It was the final day of the World Hockey Championship. Canada was seeking revenge from the loss in the finals to Russia in Quebec City last year while Swedes and the Americans battled for bronze.

Gold Medal Game
Russia 2 vs. Canada 1 – The battle of the hockey powerhouses came to an disappointing finish for the Canadians as the Russians defended their gold medal in a rematch of the Quebec City finals last year. Jason Spezza gave the Canadians an early lead, but Oleg Saprykin scored a powerplay goal to tie the game. Alexander Radulov scores what would be the game winning goal in the second period. The Canadians dominated in the offensive zone, forcing Ilya Bryzgalov to make 37 saves. Solid goaltending prevented Canada from snatching another goal medal victory. Meanwhile Dwayne Roloson made 15 stops for Canada. The Russians currently have a 25-24 edge over the Canadians in world titles.

Bronze Medal Game
Sweden 4 vs. U.S.A. 2 – Sweden took advantage of the young undisciplined American team as they scored all four of their goals on the powerplay on their way to win the bronze medal game. After a scoreless opening frame, Jack Johnson scores a powerplay goal five minutes into the second period to give the Americans the lead. Loui Eriksson responded later in the second period to tie up the game. Two and a half minutes later, Tony Martensson’s pass was deflected off Johnson’s stick to give Sweden a 2-1 lead. Joe Pavelski tied up the game early in the third as he wrists a shot past Liv. Unfortunately, penalties proved to be the downfall of the Americans as David Backes’ tripping penalty led to a powerplay goal by Carl Gunarsson. The Americans never battled back and more penalties were thrown out when Ryan Suter and Dustin Brown were sent to the box late in the game. Johnny Oduya sealed the deal with the empty netter. Sweden’s starting goaltender Jonas Gustavsson returned home to be with his ailing mother, so Stefan Liv was thrusted into the starting position. He made 37 stops to prevent the Americans from obtaining the bronze medal.

Three Stars of the Day:
1. Ilya Bryzgalov (Russia) – 37 saves
2. Stefan Liv (Sweden) – 37 saves
3. Alexander Radulov (Russia) – 1 goal