the sport could use a few more miracles

USA's drubbing of Russia, I stopped counting after the first dozen, was bad theater, and terrible for the sport. Fans were imploring Russia to mount an attack, but ever since their medal hopes were dashed by Finland, Mother Russia had departed Vancouver mentally. Players put the blame on their 16 yr old goalie, who gave up 10 before departing. It was ugly, and horrible for the sport. USA fans waiving flags during goals 13 and 14 seemed idiotic, but they paid over $100 per seat so who are we to judge? Former Canadian captain and CTV commentator thought it was "awful", and IIHF rep Jen Weideke feared that the sport will be under attack.

HOWEVER, three hours later the gritty and pluck Chinese women took Finland to the brink, surrendering an early lead but battling the Finns for 3 hours before falling 2-1. No fan left unhappy. If there is to be a team that actually makes strides to challenge the big 4 in the next generation, maybe it is the Chinese, who have hired a Finnish coach to push them along. They spent 11 months together prior to these Games and the work is paying off.