Team Canada forward Tyler McGregor, of Forest, Ont., takes a breather during a practice ahead of the World Para Ice Hockey Championship in Calgary, Tuesday, April 30, 2024.THE CANADIAN PRESS
Canada continued its dominant start at the World Para Hockey Championship, clinching their second consecutive victory in as many days by decimating Italy with a resounding 10-0 win. The game, held at Calgary's Win Sport Arena, witnessed an outstanding performance from Tyler McGregor, hailing from Forest, Ont., who led the Canadian squad with four goals and an assist.
Adding to Canada's commanding display was Liam Hickey from St. John's, N.L., who contributed significantly with two goals and four assists. This stellar performance came hot on the heels of Canada's opening match where they trounced Japan 19-0.
In a testament to Canada's defensive prowess, goalie Corbin Watson faced merely two shots from the Italian side throughout the game, ensuring a clean sheet for his team. This exceptional showing follows Canada's silver medal finish at the 2023 World Para Championship in Moose Jaw, Sask., where they fell to the United States in the final with a score of 6-1.
Despite their strong start, Canada faces a tougher challenge ahead as they prepare to take on Czechia, the bronze medallist from the 2023 championship, in their final preliminary round match on Tuesday.
Meanwhile, in other matches on Sunday, the United States and China asserted their dominance in their respective pools, each securing their second victory. The Americans maintained their flawless record by blanking South Korea 11-0, while China showcased their strength with a convincing 10-0 shutout against Slovakia.
With the preliminary round nearing its conclusion, the stage is set for intense matchups as teams vie for a spot in the semifinals. The semifinal matches are scheduled for Friday, with the highly anticipated medal games set to take place on Sunday.
