Fairbanks' Justin Woods today lent Team USA a helping hand and helped it advance to the title game at the World Junior A Challenge in Yarmouth, Nova Scotia.

Woods, 18, a defenseman, furnished three assists as the Americans built a 5-0 first-period lead on the way to a 7-4 victory over Switzerland. In three tournament games, Woods owns 1-3--4 totals.

Woods has committed to play college hockey for his hometown team, UAF. He currently plays for the Lincoln Stars of the USHL (he's 0-3--3 and +3 in 9 games for Lincoln).

The Americans in Sunday's title game will play the winner of tonight's other semi between Canada East and Canada West.