For two periods, it seemed like the story would be Team USA finishing off its exhibition schedule with a head of steam. Instead, they stumbled a bit toward the exit.
After falling behind 3-0, Finland scored two goals in the third period and generated some great looks on a late power play. There were more than a few close calls, yet Jonathan Quick & Co. held on for a 3-2 victory.
Yes, it was only an exhibition game, but John Tortorella might want to consider how his team played with a lead.
Finns take over late as the score effects kick in. pic.twitter.com/gn3QFs47ic
— Micah Blake McCurdy (@IneffectiveMath) September 14, 2016
The United States was pretty dominant through the first two periods, peaking with this beautiful tic-tac-toe goal.
GOAL! Ryan Kesler extends #TeamUSA's lead over Finland to 2-0 at 3:37 of the 2nd period. #WCH2016 pic.twitter.com/fv8lkbt3ys
— USA Hockey (@usahockey) September 14, 2016
A Derek Stepan breakaway goal ended up standing as the game-winner.
From Finland’s end, Pekka Rinne didn’t exactly demand the starting job with his work at times on Tuesday.
One of the highlights for Finland was Patrik Laine. He scored a goal and seemed to show the kind of trigger-happy, dangerous shooting instincts that Verizon Center fans have experienced with Alex Ovechkin.
Laine has got some Ovechkin-like qualities about him, for sure. Fun to watch.
— Becca (@BeccaH_JR) September 14, 2016
Rasmus Ristolainen also looked great at times in this exhibition.
Team USA kicks off its round robin schedule with a game against Europe on Saturday. Finland kicks off its schedule with a match against Team North America on Sunday.