The U.S. lost to Canada, 5-2, Saturday as an eight-team international men’s field hockey tournament began at the Chula Vista Olympic Training Center.
The U.S. team opened the scoring in the ninth minute of the Men’s World League Round 2 Pool B game on a goal by defender Aki Kaeppeler.
Canada began a streak of four unanswered goals when midfielder Brendan Bissett scored in the final minute of the 15-minute first quarter. And defender Scott Tupper scored the only goal of the second quarter to give the Canadians a 2-1 halftime lead.
Forward Matthew Sarmento scored in the 33rd and 34th minute to increase Canada’s lead to 4-1. U.S. captain Pat Harris of Moorpark, playing in his 100th international game, scored in the 39th minute.
Tupper scored the lone goal of the fourth quarter.
The U.S. is 27th in the rankings compiled by the International Hockey Federation, the sport’s worldwide governing body, 13 spots behind Canada, the tournament’s top-ranked team.
In today’s other Pool B game, Russia defeated Trinidad & Tobago, 6-1. In Pool A play, Ireland defeated Chile, 8-0, and Austria defeated Italy, 3-1.
Play continues Sunday with the U.S. facing Trinidad & Tobago, Canada playing Russia, Chile taking on Italy and Austria opposing Ireland.
The tournament concludes March 8. Admission is free to all games.
The top three teams will advance to Round 3, which will be played in June and July, when berths in the 2016 Olympics will be at stake.
— City News Service