Team Canada Takes Silver in World Hockey Games

Steve Yzerman of the Detroit Red Wings scored one goal and added two assists today as Team Canada edged Czechoslovakia 4-3 to win the silver medal in the World Hockey Championships.

The Soviet Union, which wrapped up the title Saturday, was to meet Sweden in the final medal round game tonight at the Globe Arena.

But the Swedes, winners of the last world championship in 1987, played for respect only, having lost a shot at the medals by losing to the Czechs on Saturday. Czechoslovakia won the bronze medal.

Best Finish Since ’85

It was the best finish in the world championships for a Canadian team since placing second in the 1985 tournament in Prague after beating the Soviet Union.

The Soviet Union beat Canada 5-3 in the medal round this time, clinching its 21st world title since 1954. The Soviets had a perfect 10-0 record, counting the preliminary round.

Playing for the silver did not prevent the Canadians from being motivated before a crowd of 13,127.

“I was personally worried about it before the game,” said Team Canada Coach Dave King. “But they worked hard; they kept their focus.

“They were really excited at the opportunity of getting a silver medal. I was very pleased with the preparation before the game.”

The Canadian team, featuring three stars from dethroned Stanley Cup champion Edmonton, was one of the strongest to play in Europe for several years, if not the best.

“It’s a very good team,” King said. “It’s a team that’s got good chemistry with good players and one of the best teams that has come over here.”

Never Trailed

Canada never trailed, but Czechoslovakia came back to tie the score 3-3 on Vladimir Ruzicka’s power play goal at 14:40 in the second period.

The Soviet Union, winner of the 1988 Winter Olympic tourney, has won the last two major international championships.