Spengler Cup
December 26, 2002
Davos, Switzerland

Canada's National Men's Team opened up the 2002 Spengler Cup with a 5-4 win over the Cologne Sharks in front of a sold out (7,860) crowd at the Davos Arena.

Cologne opened the scoring early in the first period as Dave McLlwain beat Canadian goaltender Corey Hirsch (Utah Grizzlies - AHL - Dallas Stars) just before the 3:00 mark. Canada would tie things up when Craig Ferguson converted a Bobby Andrews (Hartford Wolfpack - AHL - New York Rangers) pass at the 5:21 mark. Cologne would regain their lead just over a minute later on a Darcy Werenka goal. The Sharks took a one-goal lead into the second period.

In the middle frame, Cologne added two goals in a 0:59 second span to take a commanding 4-1 lead. Canada would rebound shortly after when James Black narrowed Cologne's lead to 4-2.

In the third, Yves Sarault's first goal of the game at the 4:23 mark put Canada within striking distance. Canada tied things up shortly after as Sarault netted his second goal of the game at the 11:41 mark. Jean-Yves Roy completed the Canadian comeback with just 1:22 remaining, converting a Sarault pass.

Hirsch recorded the win between the pipes for Canada while Sarault recorded three points (two goals and one assist).

Canada's next game is against Sparta Prague (CZE) on Saturday at 2:45pm (EST)