Team USA scored four goals in the opening five minutes, and held on to defeat Sweden 6-3 in their first game at the 2010 USA Hockey National Junior Development Camp.

Forward Kyle Palmieri, returning from last year’s Gold Medal winning team, had two assists. “Obviously we were pretty excited for the opening game. Coming out here and putting up four goals in the first period was impressive. We just have to learn how to keep an even-keel throughout the game to keep the energy up,” Palmieri said.

Team USA chased starting Swedish goaltender Robin Lehner, after he allowed four goals on just six USA shots.

Just like they did Monday against Finland, Team Sweden dominated the second period. They held the USA at bay while scoring twice. “Our guys hung in there,” explained Team USA Head Coach Keith Allain. “It's one thing to let them get close; it's another to let them take the lead. We didn't allow that.”

Team USA scored two goals in the final period to seal their first victory in this six-day tournament.

The Americans (1-0) are back in action, Tuesday afternoon against Team Finland (0-1) at 4 p.m.

Quick Note: Defenseman Adam Clendening of Niagara Falls, NY, recorded an assist on the second U.S. goal. Clendening hopes to make an impression on Allain, who will have potentially only one returning defenseman from the 2010 Gold Medal team in John Ramage.