PORTER LEADS USA ROUT AS FINLAND FALLS, 11–5

The United States hockey club delivered a performance of rare authority Tuesday evening, turning back a determined Finnish side by a score of 11 goals to 5 in a Round Robin contest of the FHL 1980 Olympic Spring Classic.

Playing before the partisan faithful at Inwood Ice Arena, the Americans showed no mercy once they had established supremacy, peppering Finnish goaltender Shaun Moranqvist with 39 shots en route to a convincing victory that will long linger in the memories of those fortunate enough to witness it.

Center Bob Porter, the newly emergent offensive engine of the American attack, was simply magnificent. The veteran forward collected four goals and two assists for six points, asserting his standing as the most dangerous forward on either side. Porter found the net in three separate periods and was a constant headache for the Finnish defense throughout the contest.

Equally effective was Ron Gonsoulin, the towering forward whose physical presence proved impossible to neutralize. Gonsoulin tallied three goals and three assists, and repeatedly set the tone with his imposing stature along the boards and in front of the crease. The big forward seems to have arrived at his very peak form at precisely the right moment.

Brad Populorum, a promising young addition to the American roster, contributed two goals of his own — both timely strikes that underscored his reputation as a player with an instinctive gift around the net. If Tuesday's performance is any indication, this youngster has a very bright future.

The second period was nothing short of extraordinary. The Americans, leading by three goals after fifteen minutes, opened the floodgates in the middle frame with a seven-goal outburst that rendered the outcome academic. Finland managed three replies of their own in the period, briefly offering the suggestion of a contest, but the Americans answered every challenge with authority.

Mike Kerr, the crafty veteran who anchors the second line, was the unsung hero of the evening. Though he failed to register a goal, Kerr distributed three assists with a quiet efficiency that speaks to his long years of experience. His work in the second period was instrumental in establishing the Americans' rhythm.

Jeff Adolfino and Eric Jokisch each contributed a goal and two assists, with the trio of Herrera, Hornbuckle, and Chesson adding two assists apiece on the defensive side. It was, in the truest sense, a complete team effort.

Between the pipes, American netminder Charles Methvin — a multi-championship starter of considerable pedigree — was tested only 22 times and turned aside 17 of those offerings in 45 minutes of work. The victory was never truly in doubt, but Methvin was sound and unflappable when called upon.

Finland's Shaun Moranqvist was the harder-working of the two goaltenders, facing 39 American shots and making 28 saves in a difficult evening. Moranqvist, the defending FHL champion who owns a 71-43 career record and two Legend Cup titles, was not at fault for the result; the defensive breakdown in front of him was too severe to overcome.

Michael Cosensalo was Finland's brightest light, finishing with two goals and two assists for four points. The speedy forward was relentless on the forecheck and demonstrated why he is considered one of the more dangerous scorers in the tournament at 2.6 points per game. His efforts, however, were not enough to shift the course of the game.

Ryan Helisomppi, Finland's offensive leader and one of the fastest skaters in the tournament, was held to a single assist — a quiet night by his considerable standards. The Americans would appear to have found an answer for him, at least on this occasion.

The Americans advance with considerable momentum and finish the round robin a perfect 5-0. The fins have one contest remaining Thursday might against their biggest rival Sweden.  A win will give the Finland squad a bye into the medal round semi final.

No penalties were assessed to either club.  All goals scored at even strength.  Game time: 45 minutes.