After a thrilling victory over Norway in the round robin portion of the 2022 Paralympic Games, Team USA (Matt Thums, Steve Emt, David Samsa, Oyuna Uranchimeg, and Pam Wilson) hoped to carry the momentum into its matchup against reigning World Champions, China.

Despite the U.S. having last stone advantage to start the game, China was first on the scoreboard, stealing five points in the second end.

The United States was only able to respond with a single before China went on to score three more points in the fourth end and then steal two in the fifth.

In the sixth end, Team USA had three stones in the house but only scored a single due to a takeout attempt that did not curl enough to remove the Chinese counter totally out of play.

With an eight-point deficit and only two ends to go, the United States conceded to China, resulting in the Team’s fourth loss of the tournament.

For a chance to qualify for the playoffs, the United States will need to run the table in its remaining four games of round robin play.

“We need to play better,” said Matt Thums, attributing strategical and executional shortcomings to the quick and significant lead China was able to establish.

The U.S. will face Switzerland in its next game on March 9th at 12:35AM (CST).

“We’re going to get a good night’s sleep and come back tomorrow,” said Steve Emt. “Our backs are against the wall but that’s what we do.”

USA Curling is sponsored by Columbia Sportswear, Toyota, Twin Cities Orthopedics, Training HAUS, Brakebush, ISS (Ice, Sports & Solar), and Sitrin, and is partnered with IHG, Rock Solid Productions Inc., Laurie Artiss Ltd. – The Pin People.