Another classic last night, this time with the good guys coming out on top. :wink: I was so mad when the US took that dumb penalty of running the goalie with 4 minutes to go. As soon as Canada went on the power play I knew the Americans would be lucky to hold on.
I only was able to watch the 3rd period but a few things stand out to me.
1.) I don't ever remember a big game in which both teams pulled their starting goalies.
2.) Even though I am pleased with the outcome I don't like the 4 on 4 ot for the medel round. I think it changed the style of play of both teams too much and made the teams too cautious of giving up odd man rushes. The last 15 seconds excluded of course. 4 on 4 is fun in most situations but in a game as big as this they should just let them keep going 5 on 5 until it is decided.
3.) Winning 5 times in a row is especially impressive when it is a one loss and done situation once you get to the medel round. In even a best of 3 series a team has a chance of overcoming a bad bounce, bad call, or just an off night. But in a one and done situation you have to be on top of your game every night. Hat's of to the Canadians.
4.) Can you be more of a clutch player than Eberle? Wow, everytime he touched the puck in ot I cringed.
I'm sure the excuse of Team Canada not having all there top players available for the tournament will be used to justify the loss but I think the US win is good for hockey on both sides of the border. Hockey is Canada's game and anytime they are beaten by the US Canada seems to rise up to the next level to eliminate any doubts that. It will be an intense rivalry for years to come for sure.