The U.S. took a two-goal lead in the game after Hutson scored with seven minutes remaining in the second period. Vansaghi made a great pass to set up Hutson’s goal, with Skahan earning the secondary assist. This made the score 3-1 in favor of the U.S.
Before the end of the second period, Canada’s McKenna scored a goal on a power play, narrowing the gap to 3-2. The game remained close with strong goaltending on both sides, including a highlight-reel save by George to keep it a one-goal game after the second period.
In the third period, Kempf made a crucial glove save on a back-door attempt by the Canadian captain, Martone, during a power play. With 9:35 left in regulation, McKenna scored again to tie the game at three goals each.
Canada then took the lead with two quick goals on a major power play in the final minutes of the game. Beaudoin and Iginla scored to give Canada a 5-3 lead. The U.S. pulled back within one goal with a deflection by Zeimer off a shot by Emery.
McKenna sealed the win for Canada with an empty-net goal in the last 20 seconds of the game. Hutson was named Team USA’s player of the game, while Hagens received the tournament’s Most Valuable Player award. Both Hagens and Hutson received Directorate Awards, and were named to the Media All-Star Team. The U.S. outshot Canada 35-25 and scored once on the power play.