Canada drops 2-1 overtime decision to the U.S. to open the International Para Hockey Cup in Czechia

OSTRAVA, Czechia – In a thrilling start to the Paralympic Winter Games season, the United States defeated Canada 2–1 in overtime Monday to open the International Para Hockey Cup, renewing the sport’s fiercest rivalry.

American star forward Declan Farmer notched the winner just 1:54 into overtime. Farmer whipped behind the Canadian net and came out front firing a wrist shot high inside to Corbin Watson’s blocker side.

The game was scoreless through two periods when team captain Tyler McGregor opened the scoring on a powerplay marker from his linemates Liam Hickey and Dominc Cozzolino. But the Americans replied less than two minutes later with Jack Wallace beating Watson on the power play as well.

‘’Our effort was exceptional today,’’ said McGregor. ‘‘’Lots of things we can clean up and work on. The U.S. is our toughest competition, and you may as well test yourself against them right off the bat. Hopefully get another shot at them later in the week.”

The U.S. outshot Canada 18-16 and Watson was named Canada’s player of the game.

New head coach Boris Rybalka also praised his troops.

 “There are a lot of positives to take away from today despite the loss,’’ he said. ‘’There are some little things to clean up for sure, but for our first game of the season, I thought our guys battled and competed.”

The game also marked the return of Greg Westlake, Canada’s second all -time leading scorer. He hadn’t played for Team Canada since the 2022 Beijing Games but was an assistant coach the last couple of seasons.

“If anything, my energy level might have been too high,’’ he said. ‘’For the first game in three years, it was more of the emotional and mental component of trying not to do too much and keep it simple.”

Canada faces host Czechia on Tuesday at 9 a.m. The game is being streamed live on the Czech Para Hockey YouTube channel.