U.S. beats France 4-0 at hockey worlds

Ottawa Senators forward Nick Foligno scored twice and Brandon Dubinsky of the New York Rangers had a goal and two assists to lead the United States to a 4-0 victory over France Sunday in the relegation round of the ice hockey world championship.

The Americans' second straight victory after three first-round defeats gave them six points in relegation Group G, but they have yet to secure a spot at the worlds next year.

``It's a bit disappointing that we're not playing for a medal,'' Foligno said. ``But we need to get back to this tournament next year and give us a chance to win a medal next year.''

The U.S. faces Italy on Tuesday in its final relegation-group game.

Foligno opened the scoring in the fifth minute of the second period on an assist from Dubinsky, who doubled the advantage eight minutes later.

T.J. Oshie of the St. Louis Blues scored early in the third before Foligno finished off the scoring with six minutes remaining.

Florida Panthers goalie Scott Clemmensen saved all 10 shots he faced in the U.S. goal.

``It feels nice after a tough start. It was just one of the those nights where it took us a bit to finally pop one in and open the other team up,'' Dubinsky said. ``You have to grab a lead against these teams because if they pull ahead they will just sit back and wait for their breakaway chances.''

France has three points with a 1-1 record. Italy is also 1-1 with three points after a 2-1 victory over Kazakhstan, which has no points.