We Stand on Guard for Thee

I’ve got Olympic fever, and the only prescription is more hockey. Who would have predicted the Canadians would overpower the Russians in the manner they did. They dominated the Russians in every facet of the game. Sure, they were fortunate Nabokov fought the puck for 2 periods, but that doesn’t discount their drive and determination. Simply put, Canada wanted the win more than the Russians, and it showed. Players who have been goats for the majority of the tournament- I’m looking at you Corey Perry- redeemed themselves in the eyes of the country with their grit and effort. It was a pleasure to watch, to be sure.

Looking forward to tonight’s game against the Slovaks, I think we have a good opportunity to reach the gold medal final. However, the Slovaks should not be underestimated (just ask Sweden and Russia). They are riding a hot goaltender, and the tournament’s best power play and penalty kill, not to mention a beast in Chara on the backend. Their top two lines are chockablock with genuine NHL stars who will surely fight with more determination than the Russians did on Wednesday. With that said, we should beat them soundly, however now is not the time to rest on our laurels. I expect a fast-paced physical game, with Crosby finally breaking out to prove he is Captain Canada (with apologies to Ryan Smyth). Go Canada, go!

While the Olympics are fairly ubiquitous at the moment, I have been trying to keep up with my new sci-fi obsession, spurred by watching Moon last month. The most recent film I watched was “Sunshine”, a scientifically unsound movie, but entertaining nonetheless. Next on the docket is Blade Runner. Exciting stuff.

Anyway, I’m off to watch the USA/Finland game (already 6-0 US in the first). Hope everyone enjoys the upcoming weekend.

Later days,

Corey