U.S. Chooses Swayman, Rallies to Defeat Denmark
The U.S. men’s hockey team faced a challenging match against Denmark, which was unexpected given their status as favorites. Denmark opted not to use their top goalie, Frederik Andersen, for this game, choosing instead to prepare for their upcoming match against Latvia.
Key Players in the Match
The U.S. head coach, Mike Sullivan, started Jeremy Swayman in goal, with Connor Hellebuyck serving as backup. The game showcased a rollercoaster of events, starting with Denmark taking an early lead.
Game Highlights
- Initial Lead: Denmark scored just 1:40 into the first period after a bad bounce off U.S. defenseman Zach Werenski, giving them a 1-0 advantage.
- Equalizer: Matt Boldy brought the U.S. level at 1-1 with a goal at 3:35 in the first period.
- Second Goal for Denmark: Denmark regained the lead at 11:16 with a shot from Nicholas Jensen that caught Swayman off guard, making it 2-1.
Swayman’s Reflections
After the game, Swayman expressed his disappointment about the second goal. He explained, “It was a flash screen, and it was just the perfect height.” Despite this, he maintained a focus on the team’s resilience. He praised his teammates for their support throughout the match.
Swayman also humorously noted his colorblindness, which he stated was not a factor in his missed save. He emphasized the importance of remaining composed, as every goaltender faces unique challenges in varying environments.
Looking Ahead
After a hard-fought victory, the U.S. squad is gearing up for their next matchup against Germany. The team’s ability to bounce back and stay focused will be crucial as they aim for success in the tournament.
