USA start campaign with a 3-1 defeat of Switzerland

From Sportsbeat Staff, in Vancouver

USA kicked off their Olympic campaign with a competent defeat of Switzerland at the Winter Games in Vancouver.

BACKES TO THE WALL: St Louis Blues star David Backes scores as the USA kick off their Olympic campaign with a 3-1 defeat of Switzerland (Getty Images)

The first match of the men's competition was far from a classic at the Canada Hockey Place but goals from Bobby Ryan, David Backes and Ryan Malone saw the American's home.

Switzerland frustrated their opponents in the first period and after the USA failed to take advantage of a mid-period power play, it seemed destined to finish 0-0 at the first break.

But Anaheim Ducks' Bobby Ryan struck with a minute left to hand his side the lead.

St. Louis Blues' David Backes doubled the USA's advantage shortly after the break and when Raffaele Sannitz was sent to the bin for hooking, Tampa Bay Lightning forward Ryan Malone took advantage to make it three.

Switzerland had a couple of power plays themselves in the final period and pulled one back in the second with Roman Wick finding the net but it proved to be no more than a consolation.

AS IT HAPPENS: Day five from the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver