VICTORIA, British Columbia -- The United States clinched a berth in next year's Olympics with a 7-6 win over New Zealand on Wednesday night at the curling world championship.
The Americans, who lost to first-place Norway 6-3 earlier in the day, moved into a four-way tie for third in the preliminary round of the 12-team tournament. The win over New Zealand ensured the Americans a high enough finish to qualify for the 2006 Games in Turin, Italy.
The United States, led by skip Pete Fenson, was pushed to an extra end after New Zealand scored three points in the 10th to erase a 6-3 deficit. Fenson then drew his last shot to the four-foot ring to give the Americans the win.
The United States (6-3) is tied for third with Canada, Finland and Germany heading into the final two matches of round-robin play Thursday. Norway (8-1) is in first place, followed by Scotland (7-2).
If the Americans beat Sweden (2-7) and Italy (1-8), they would be guaranteed at least a tiebreaker match to advance to the playoff rounds.
