Foligno and Kassian were the starting wings for Canada, with Kings prospect Brayden Schenn between them. The pair later moved to spend all but two even strength shifts with Columbus prospect Ryan Johansen the rest of the way. Both received quality power play time in the win with Kassian positioned in front of the net on the #1 unit and Foligno setting screens on the second line.
Skating on that #2 PP unit late in the first period, Foligno drifted off the boards to the front of the net and buried a rebound to tie the game 1-1.
Here is the goal and interview that followed at the first intermission.
With Canada jumping to a 3-2 lead late int he second, Kassian was whistled for slashing and watched from the box as Russia struck back to tied the game.
Kassian and Foligno each made a mark in the third period. First Kassian, who earlier was a presence in front of the net on what proved to be the game winning goal, helped give Canada the 5-3 lead when he took executed a a deft saucer pass to Brayden Schenn in front of the Russian net.
With Canada gaining late momentum, Foligno yardsaled a Russian player with a hard hit on the forecheck.
Big win for Canada and nice first game for the Sabres properties....
