Key Takeaways
- Team USA defeats Hungary 9-0 in the quarterfinals to advance to the semifinals
- Emily Pohl and Alaina Gnetz each score twice, while Talla Hansen scores for the fourth straight game
- Jane Daley ties the IIHF single-tournament goal record with 11 goals
- The U.S. outshoots Hungary 56-8 and goes 1-2 on the power play
- The team will face an opponent to be determined in the semifinals on Saturday, January 18
Introduction to the Game
The U.S. Under-18 Women’s National Team dominated Hungary in the quarterfinals, winning 9-0 and advancing to the semifinals. The team’s high-powered offense was on full display, with six goals scored in the first period alone. Emily Pohl and Alaina Gnetz each scored twice, while Talla Hansen scored for the fourth straight game. Jane Daley also had a standout performance, tallying two goals and tying the IIHF single-tournament goal record with 11 goals.
First Period Scoring
The U.S. came out strong in the first period, with Jane Daley kicking off the scoring with 14:24 left in the frame. Jillian McLaughlin added the team’s second goal just a minute later, before Alaina Gnetz scored back-to-back goals within the span of 11 seconds. Emily Pohl rounded out the period’s scoring with 5:03 remaining, giving the U.S. a 6-0 lead heading into the first intermission. The team’s offense was clicking on all cylinders, with each goal showcasing the team’s speed, skill, and aggressiveness.
Second Period Scoring
The U.S. continued to apply pressure in the second period, with Lindsay Stepnowski scoring just 1:24 into the frame. Stepnowski received the puck along the boards and cut in towards the crease, where a shot five-hole trickled through the goalie’s legs. Alaina Gnetz and Jane Daley also added goals in the second period, with Daley’s goal coming on a partial breakaway down the center of the ice. Talla Hansen scored the team’s first power play goal of the night late in the second, tapping in a shot from right outside the crease for the ninth goal of the game.
Third Period and Game Recap
Despite numerous looks, both teams were scoreless in the third period, ending the game at a 9-0 tally. Bianca Birrittieri made eight saves in the shutout effort, and the U.S. outshot Hungary 56-8. The team’s power play was also effective, going 1-2 on the night. The U.S. will now advance to the semifinals on Saturday, January 18, where they will face an opponent to be determined. The game can be streamed live on ESPN+.
Coach’s Comments and Player Recognition
Coach Courtney Kennedy praised her team’s performance, saying "These games are never easy. I’m proud of how we pushed through and advanced to Saturday." Emily Pohl was named the U.S. player of the game, and her two goals helped to propel the team to victory. The team’s dominant performance was a testament to their skill and dedication, and they will look to carry this momentum into the semifinals.
Looking Ahead to the Semifinals
The U.S. will now prepare to face an opponent to be determined in the semifinals on Saturday, January 18. The team will look to continue their winning streak and advance to the championship game. With their high-powered offense and strong defense, the U.S. is a formidable opponent, and they will be a team to watch in the remainder of the tournament. The game can be streamed live on ESPN+, and fans will be eagerly anticipating the matchup to see which team will come out on top.
