ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. -- The first outdoor game in the history of the World Junior Championship tournament took place with temperatures in the teens and in front of thousands of fans, extending well into the upper reaches of New Era Field.

The U.S. defeated Canada in the shootout after the score was tied 3-3 following regulation and overtime. Casey Mittelstadt, the impressive Sabres prospect, was player of the game for Team USA.

The two neighboring countries and friendly rivals squared off on an ice rink specially built in the middle of the field, normally home to the Buffalo Bills.

Layers of lake snow began falling shortly after the puck drop, slowing down skaters but making for a memorable game. Crews got out shovels, wheelbarrows and trash bins on wheels to remove the snow.

Official attendance was 44,592.