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Photo by Rena Laverty
TEMPE, Ariz. - Harrison Boettiger (Wheat Ridge, Colo.) had over 30 saves in his fourth consecutive game, but the U.S. National Under-18 Team fell to Arizona State University in his 36-save performance from Mullett Arena this afternoon.
The U.S. poured on the pressure to start the game, outshooting the Sun Devils by a 10-6 count. Their best chance came towards the period's midway point as Richard Gallant (Concord, Mass.) nearly grabbed the first lead, but the goal was ultimately waived due to off-sides.
Boettiger turned aside all shots he saw in the period, as did NTDP alum and current Sun Devil Gibson Homer.
Kyle Smolen finally broke the stalemate 48:32 into action as he sent one far-side from the left dot on the power play.
Team USA finished with 23 shots, but were unable to get one in the eventual 1-0 final.
The U18s return to play Friday from Trinity Health Arena against the Muskegon Lumberjacks. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:10 p.m. ET and the game can be streamed live on FloHockey.