If you awoke early Thursday to catch Team Canada battle the U.S. at the World Junior Hockey Championship, you weren’t alone.
At least two Halifax sports bars served up plenty of beer and bacon to die-hard hockey fans at 5 a.m., thanks to a special liquor licence acquired just for the World Juniors.
“Oh yeah, we were all raring to go at 4:30 a.m.” said fan Woody Menear.
“Without the NHL this year, and with the Mooseheads having such a big role in this year’s World Juniors, it’s a great excuse to get together with friends,” said fan Mike Gniewek.
The bars were packed by the time the puck dropped – a strange sight at 5 a.m. - but any excitement was short-lived as Canada quickly fell behind.
Canada eventually got on the board, but with the team still down by three goals, patrons were calling out for a local fan favourite.
“I’m gonna say it again, MacKinnon should be on the second line,” said Kirk Budden.
Nathan MacKinnon hit the ice with Mooseheads teammate Jonathan Drouin in the third period, but they couldn’t beat American goalie John Gibson.
After a loss of 5-1, it was a disappointing morning for many early-risers.
“I still thought that Canada would come back in the third period, but they played their heart out and what more can you expect from them?” said fan Ivy Shaw.
Canada will have a chance to play for a medal Saturday as they take on Russia in the bronze medal game.
Management at one Halifax sports bar says it will open early for Saturday’s game and another large crowd is expected.
With files from CTV Atlantic's Garreth MacDonald
