WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS 2010: GERMANY

USA vs Germany sets new world record for attendance: 77,803

The previous record of 74,554 was set in 2001 at an outdoor game between Michigan and Michigan State.  The setting for the record-breaking game was perfect, with host Germany playing--and defeating--Team USA.

The USA roster was filled with players from teams that either missed the playoffs or where sent home after the first round.  Exceptions: goalies Ben Bishop  of Denver, CO (Peoria Rivermen, AHL) as well as Buffalo, NY's David Leggio (Finnish Champion 2010 TPS Turku) and Boston College forward Chris Kreider of Boxton, MA (19-yr.-old; plays for Boston College).

Pre-game festivities included an alumni match between Germany and players from the former Soviet Union, which Russia won, 5-2.

Boxer and hockey fan Vladimir Klitschko in attendance at record-setting game

Boxing World Champion Vladimir Klitschko watched the alumni game and was filled with enthusiasm. “I raised in the USSR and nearly every kid was playing hockey – so did I but later I decided to become a boxer," said Klitschko.  "And no, the scars in my face are boxing injuries! But I´m still interested in hockey and I also will watch the (USA vs. Germany) main (event).”

The opening ceremony also included remarks from German president Horst Koehler and IIHF president Rene Fasel.

Although the German team was outshot 32-19 in regulation, the host Germans managed to tie the game 1-1 at 5:20 of the second period when Michael Wolf (Iserlohn Roosters) converted a perfect feed from Marcel Mueller and scored the first goal of the tournament.

The home crowd rocked the arena as the crowd celebrated.

In the last period the US boys dominated, outshooting Germany 14-5, getting the tying goal from Anaheim's Ryan Carter.

German netminder Dennis Endras became the star of the game, stopping one shot after the other, forcing overtime.

After a short three-minute break, Germany's first shot--just 21 seconds into the extra frame, found its way past US goalie Scott Clemmensen (Florida Panthers).  Portland Pirates forward Felix Schutz, was Germany's hero with the game winner and the arena turned into a madhouse.

“We can´t be disappointed with the game only with the result," said USA's T.J. Oshie (St. Louis Blues).  It had been a great event to play in front of this huge crowd – it has been a wonderful experience!”

The Germans must now defeat Denmark to move on to the second round.

PRE-GAME:

FULL: WORLD RECORD CROWD:

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