SLOVAKIA WIN CREATES THREE-WAY TIE FOR SECOND IN POOL A

By Keith Borkowsky

REGINA — Slovakia’s 4-2 win over the United States creates an interesting playoff picture in Pool A at the World Under-17 Hockey Challenge.

The Slovaks, Americans and Team West all have one win at the tournament, and are now tied for second place in Pool A.

Slovakian forward Richard Ficko gave his team a 1-0 lead midway through the first period, assisted by Matej Misura. They added to their lead late in the period, thanks to a Martin Stepan goal, assisted by Michal Babkovic.

Misura gave Slovakia a 3-0 lead early in the second period, assisted by Josef Molnar, but the Americans cut into the lead midway in the frame. Ryan Hayes lit the lamp for his first goal, assisted by A.J. Sturges and Justin Vaive.

Both teams exchanged goals in the final frame. Hayes scored his second of the night while Slovakia’s Lukas Vartovnik countered.

The United States (1-1) plays Team West (1-1) Sunday in Regina at 3 p.m. Slovakia (1-1) faces off with Ontario (0-2) in the 7 p.m. game in Regina.