Russia have won their second game at the home Ice Hockey Junior World Championships in Ufa, beating the US squad with a narrow 2-1 scoreline.

The Russians took advantage of their first powerplay, with a ricochet helping Albert Yarullin beat opposing keeper, John Gibson, after three minutes of the match, 1-0.

Team USA equalized in the middle of the second period when playing five against four.

The puck took a deflection after a blue-line shot from Jacob Trouba to leave netminder Andrey Makarov stranded, 1-1.

Russia restored their lead during the fifth minute of the final period thanks to an impressive solo.

Valery Nichushkin, who beat four US defenders to let partner Vladimir Tkachev score an easy goal, 2-1.

The hosts spent the last minute of the match playing four on six, but managed to maintain the winning score.

Russia sit second in Group B, with five points after two games, a point behind leaders, Canada.

The Maple Leafs have collected their second victory in the capital of Russia’s Republic of Bashkortostan in a difficult encounter against Slovakia.

The Canadians were trailing by two goals, but managed to turn the game around to come out 6-3 winners.    

Russia will take on their principal rivals Canada on December 31, but before then Mikhail Varnakov’s men are scheduled to face Germany on Saturday.

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