'Devastating': Uninspired Canada upset by Latvia in a shootout at world juniors

Dave Cameron stepped in front of the microphones and tried to spin what had just unfolded.

A parade of Canadian players then proceeded to tow the company line after a jaw-dropping loss at the world junior hockey championship in Ottawa.

Tanner Molendyk snapped the program and country back to reality.

Eriks Mateiko scored the only goal of the shootout Friday as Latvia stunned an alarmingly uninspired Canada 3-2 in the powerhouse nation's backyard.

"They battled," said Cameron, the Canadian head coach. "Credit to them."

Molendyk, an alternate captain, was asked later about his emotions following an embarrassing loss to a country the hosts had outscored 41-4 in four previous meetings at the under-20 tournament.

"Devastating," said the defenceman from McBride, B.C.

"An eye-opener," Molendyk added later. "It's not one you want to lose, not one you see yourself losing."

That's exactly what happened.

Mateiko, who also scored in the third period for the plucky Latvians, moved in on his country's eighth shootout attempt before firing the puck home to register one of the biggest upsets in world junior history.

"We found a way," said head coach Artis Abols, who picked up just his country's third victory in 38 all-time contests at the tournament. "In one hockey game, everything is possible."

Peteris Bulans had the other goal in regulation for the hard-working Europeans in their first appearance at this year's 10-team showcase. Linards Feldbergs stopped 55 shots over 65 minutes before adding eight more in the shootout.

Bruno Osmanis had two assists for the Latvians, who lost 10-0 to Canada some 12 months ago.

"Crazy," Feldbergs said. "Can't believe what we did. I'm still in shock."