CHARLOTTETOWN – Liam Hickey of St. John’s N.L., scored three goals to lead the world champion Canadians to a resounding 9-2 victory over Czechia on Sunday night to open the Para Hockey Cup which features the top four countries in the world.
While Canada was a heavy favorite for the win, the lopsided score was a bit unexpected after the two countries waged tough battles recently. At the International Para Hockey Cup in October held in Czechia, the Canadians won 3-2 in the preliminaries and 1-0 in the semifinal in overtime. The Czechs are bronze medallists at the last two worlds.
‘’The thing I liked about a lot of our goals tonight was that those who scored were rewarded for something they had done away from the puck, in particular defensively,’’ said Canada’s head coach Russ Herrington.
‘’We have been preaching since the start of the Paralympic quadrennial that our offence will come from our defensive commitment and that showed again tonight.” Anton Jacobs-Webb of Gatineau, Que., potted two goals, Vincent Boily of Alma, Que., and Mathieu Lelièvre of Lévis, Que., each had a goal and two assists, while veterans Adam Dixon of Midland, Ont., and Tyler McGregor of Forest, Ont., had a goal and assist each.
“We are playing as a synergized unit,’’ said Jacobs-Webb. ‘’A lot of our success comes from preparation. We need to communicate, be really vocal on the ice and be aware of our roles. If everyone can play their role to the best of their ability, that is what is going to help us find success.”
Earlier Sunday, the U.S. defeated China 10-1.
The 2024-25 season is a big one in the sport. At the world championships next May in Buffalo, the top-five countries will qualify for the 2026 Paralympic Winter Games. Canada round out the prelims Wednesday against the Americans at 7 p.m. The semifinals are Friday at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. and the medal matches Saturday at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.