The Canadian National Team, powered by four Griffs on the roster, got the FIL World Under-19 World Championship off to a solid start with a narrow defeat to reigning championships, United States, 15-9, in Edinburgh, Scotland.

The teams were tied at the half, 7-7, before the United States opened the second stanza with the first five goals to open a 12-7 advantage lead en route to the 15-9 victory. The six-goal margin marks the closest game between the two neighbors at the Under-19 level.

“We got off to a great start today,” said Canada and Canisius head coach Scott Teeter. “We were tied at halftime but then got away from the game plan. We hope to see the United States again later in the tournament and know it will be a competitive game. On a positive note, Erica Evans played very strong for us with three early goals.”

Rising Canisius sophomore Erica Evans led all players on the team with four points and three goals for Canada. In addition, incoming players Tessa Chad and Brenna Shanahan saw their first action at the higher level with Shanahan chipping in one assist.

Up next for the team is Australia in a rematch of the 2011 semifinals. The teams are set to meet on Friday at 2:30 p.m. ET.