Thaindian News

By Ranjan Bhaduri
VANCOUVER, Feb 25, (THAINDIAN NEWS) Canada smashed off Russia, moving in to the semifinals of the Vancouver Olympics. Not only did they take the lead over the Russians but this victory brought about an end to the 50 year odyssey of frustration in the Olympic hockey against the Russians. The 7-3 score was an absolute power play showdown that made the crowd witness in great spirit as the aggressive Canadians took over the mighty Russians. The Canadians shall have to face the winner from the Sweden-Slovakia winner in the semifinals on Friday and if they are able to keep their winning streak they shall have to confront United States in a rematch.

The Canada- Russia Hockey game was a treat for all hockey fans. To witness Jonathan Toews playing alongside Rick Nash- what more can you ask for? It’s lamentable that such a gem of a player has always been underused. The Russian defense, as it appeared, lacked the strength and aggressive spark. Boyle scored the first softie at 12:09 from Heatley and Marleau. It was Corey Perry who kept along Russia’s big-name with two goals.

Shea Weber’s contribution set the tone right for the game to throttle in its full spirits. Dan Boyle however offered frustrating nerves for his NHL teammate Evgeni Nabokov by scoring a power-play goal. The way the Canadians pulled off the game, it made it evident that it wasn’t a team who wants to play hockey but instead a team that wants to play it smart and win it. Russia will have to leave Olympics without a medal owing to their loss.