TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- The Canadian Flyers launched an offensive blitz in the last period to deliver a lopsided rout of the Americans last Friday.
With the 5-1 win, the 552nd Air Control Wing Canadian Detachment earned custody of the CAN/US Cup and full bragging rights for the next year at their new headquarters in Bldg. 255.
Family members and fans crowded the ninth annual cup at the Blazers Ice Centre in Oklahoma City. The American Stars struck first as Steven, later named the U.S. MVP, returned an assist from behind the goal into the net with 6:50 left in the first period.
The Canadians responded at nine minutes into second period when Dennis Williams wrestled the puck from a defender near center ice, broke away to the goal and slammed it past the goaltender.
The slow scoring pace of one goal a period ended abruptly in the last period as the Flyers pasted on four unanswered points.
Broden Murphy broke the ice on the scoring spree, followed by Matthew Galvin, Andrew Lunn and Don Saunders, the CanDet commanding officer. Canadian team goalie Tim Luedtke earned his squad’s MVP award for stopping a barrage of U.S. shots on goal. Goalie Stephen was the U.S. MVP.
The series overall record is now 6-3, with the Americans leading in wins. The annual match-up is a fundraiser for the 552nd Air Control Wing Airman’s Fund, which aids Airmen and families in financial emergencies and other needs.
“It was a good game,” American player/coach David said. “It’s always fun to get out there and play against our friends from the North. We didn't have our best showing and the Canadians definitely brought their ‘A’ game. I hope they enjoy the cup this year because we are coming after it next year.”