Azzurri defeated by the USA at the Brunico Masters

Article and images from Hockey Italia 21

After a good first half, the Azzurri were defeated by the USA 6-0 at the Brunico Masters. The Americans, ahead 2-0 at the end of the first half, find the third goal at the start of the second half and then consolidate the score.

After an initial American assault, it is the falling Stricker who takes the shot. The USA regain possession of the puck and sue Stella. After 1:34 the Americans take the lead with Lechmanski. Italy responds with Patrick Bna but the American goalie saves. However, it is still the USA that is close to doubling but the shot is printed on the crossbar. A few moments go by and Stricker touches the net with the puck that seemed to have gone in, but the referees don't validate it. In the fifth, the USA can count on the first power play and put Italy under pressure. However, the Azzurri hold up the inferiority well. However, the USA continue the pressure but Stella saves her team on two close occasions, and shortly after says no again. At 10:36 second numerical superiority for the USA: once again Italy is saved thanks to Stella's saves. At 13:56, after a good action by Stricker in the frontcourt, the Azzurri force the USA to foul. The Azzurri fail to take advantage of their superiority while the USA, just back in a draw, score the doubling through Bruce. At 2 and 20 from the end of the first half USA still close to the third goal.

62 seconds have passed since the start of the second half and the USA take advantage of a blue defensive change to score the 3 to 0 with Gwozdz. At 3:50 comes the fourth goal by Daleo. The USA are often seen near Stella who saves her people. In the sixth minute the Azzurri can try to take advantage of the power play but fail to score. Shortly after halfway through the half Edmondson scores the 5-0. Italy changes goalkeeper: out of Stella, debut for Peruzzi. The Americans continue with their aggressive game, while Italy tries to restart. With 3:47 to go the USA scored their sixth goal through Bruce. Pass a little and still the blue goalie is called into question. At 2:42 from the final siren, another superiority for the Azzurri. However, Italy fails to exploit the power play. In the last minute, several penalties for the Azzurri force Italy to play 4 vs 2 for a few seconds. It ends 6 to 0.