Canada looked to continue their perfect start to the World Juniors in Ottawa on Friday – but were stopped just short of victory by the Latvians, losing 2 – 3 in a shootout.
The first goal for Canada came in the second period, when London’s own Jett Luchanko managed to sneak one past the Latvian goaltender, who blocked 55 shots on net to Latvia’s 22.
Canada almost escaped with a 1-0 shutout, but Latvia managed to secure a single goal late in the third period on a power play.
The rest of the third period was a brutal back and forth – Canada quickly answered Latvia’s goal with a power play goal by Calum Ritchie, and Easton Cowan followed up his goal in Canada’s opening night win with an assist, followed by another goal by the Latvians, bringing the game to a tie and forcing overtime.
The goaltenders brought their …