December 18, 1998
NR.106

CANADA'S NATIONAL MEN'S TEAM LOSES 5-2 TO FINLAND
IN BALTIC CUP

MOSCOW, RUSSIA -- The Canadian National Men's Team lost their third game of the Baltic Cup 5-2 to a more experienced Finnish National Team.

Chris Szysky of White City, SK scored Canada's first goal to bring the score to 3-1, midway through the third period, but Finland responded with two quick goals to put the game out of reach. Brian Casey of Grand Falls, NF scored late in the third period to round out the score at 5-2.

"It's been a frustrating tournament, although we have played well at times," said Mike Johnston, Team Canada's General Manager and Head Coach. "We've shown we can play at this level, but the other teams are more experienced." Many of the players on the other teams have played for World Championship teams, while Canada's team is made up of younger players with less international experience.

Keijo Sailynoja, Markku Hurme, and Sami Ahlberg with a hat-trick scored for Finland. Vesa Toskala started in goal for the Finns, with Fred Brathwaite of Nepean, ON between the pipes for Canada.

Perry Johnson of Edmonton, AB was named player of the game for Canada.

Team Canada's last game of the Baltic Cup tournament will be on Sunday, December 20 against the Czech Republic. The Czechs are co-leaders of the tournament, with the Swedes

After the Baltic Cup Tournament, the Canadian National Team will be heading to Switzerland for an exhibition game against the Swiss club team, EV Zug, before the Spengler Cup Tournament. The Spengler Cup starts on December 26, 1998 with Canada playing Sweden's Farjestads BK in Davos, Switzerland on December 27, 1998.