U.S. Coach Mike Sullivan Reacts To Fight-Filled Matchup Vs. Canada

The intensity was clear from the game’s opening puck drop and United States head coach Mike Sullivan appreciated it.

Following a nine-second opening stretch where there were three fights, the U.S. earned a 3-1 victory against Canada at Bell Centre on Saturday night. With the win, the U.S. clinched a berth in the 4 Nations Face-Off championship game at TD Garden on Thursday.

“I just think it’s very indicative of what this means to the players,” the Pittsburgh Penguins head coach told reporters, as shared by the Boston Bruins. “There’s two teams out there that are very competitive and have a ton of pride for their respective teams and their countries. For me, when you have an investment and trying to win like the way it occurred, I think that’s an indication of it. What an incredible hockey game.”

U.S. forward Matthew Tkachuk dropped the gloves against Canada forward Brandon Hagel immediately after puck drop, a mere two ticks coming off the clock. Then on the ensuing draw, a literal one second later, U.S. forward Brady Tkachuk went at it with Canada forward Sam Bennett with Tkachuk’s brother watching from the penalty box.

Following what felt like an everlasting six seconds, U.S. winger J.T. Miller and Canada defenseman Colton Parayko went a round near the crease. It marked the final bout of the opening stretch.

“These guys care very much about winning,” Sullivan said.

Sullivan will be back behind the United States bench when the group takes on Sweden at TD Garden on Monday night. Puck drop is set for 8 p.m. ET, and you can watch it on TNT.