Key Takeaways
- The U.S. Men’s Senior National Team lost to Australia 13-10 in a two-game series in Southern California.
- Ryder Dodd scored three goals for Team USA, while Chase Dodd added two goals.
- Australia’s strong second period, where they scored six goals, was the deciding factor in the game.
- The Aussies were able to maintain their lead throughout the game, despite a late surge from the Americans.
Introduction to the Game
The U.S. Men’s Senior National Team faced off against Australia in a two-game series in Southern California, ultimately losing 13-10. The game was a closely contested match, with both teams showing impressive skill and determination. However, it was Australia’s strong second period that proved to be the deciding factor in the game.
First Quarter Action
The game started off with Team USA striking first, as Ryder Dodd and Ryan Ohl scored goals to put the home team ahead early. Australia was able to level the score with their own pair of goals, but Dash McFarland’s goal just before the buzzer gave the Americans a 3-2 lead at the end of the first quarter. This early lead was a promising start for Team USA, but they were unable to maintain it throughout the game.
Australia’s Dominant Second Period
The second period was where Australia took control of the game, scoring six goals to take an 8-4 lead at halftime. The Aussies opened the period with three consecutive goals, and although Ryder Dodd was able to respond with a goal on a man advantage, Australia continued to dominate. They scored three more goals in a row, leaving Team USA struggling to keep up. This period was the turning point in the game, and Australia’s strong performance set them up for success in the remaining quarters.
Third Quarter Action
The third quarter saw Australia continue their run, scoring another goal to start the period. However, Chase Dodd was able to respond with a goal from five meters, and Dylan Woodhead’s skip shot found the back of the net. Ben Liechty converted on a power play to pull Team USA within three, but Australia was able to answer with another goal. Late in the quarter, Peter Castillo scored on a nice redirect, setting the score at 11-8 in favor of the visitors headed into the final frame.
Fourth Quarter and Final Result
The fourth quarter saw Australia score again to start the period, but Ryder Dodd was able to respond with another goal to keep the Americans close. However, the Aussies were able to put home another goal, going up by four with just over two minutes remaining. Chase Dodd scored once more on a 7-on-6 opportunity late in the game, but it was not enough to catch up as Australia claimed the 13-10 victory.
Game Statistics
The final score was 13-10 in favor of Australia, with Ryder Dodd leading the way for Team USA with three goals. Chase Dodd added two goals, while Peter Castillo, Ben Liechty, Dash McFarland, Ryan Ohl, and Dylan Woodhead each scored one goal. For Australia, M. Byrnes led the way with four goals, while L. Pavillard added three. The Aussies’ goalkeeper, L. Barker, made 13 saves, while the American goalkeepers, C. Mills and B. Herzer, combined for seven saves. The game saw a total of 14 power plays, with both teams converting on four of their opportunities.
