Men’s Ice Hockey – Russia vs. Finland

 

Our only event on February 18^th was another Men’s Ice Hockey game. This time, we’d get to watch the mighty Russian team face off against an underdog Finland team. While the Cold War overtones were removed from the match, there was still enough hockey history between the two clubs to make the game potentially exciting.

 

This game was in Provo, instead of at the E Center. While the location made for an easy trip for us, the arena itself was a step down from the other venue. It seemed more like a local ice rink than a true arena. Still, the cozy atmosphere helped make the game seem more intimate than the Canada vs. Sweden game we attended.

 

What didn’t help the atmosphere were the annoying hockey cheerleaders, who were once again holding up signs imploring the crowd to cheer. They seemed as out of place at this match as they did at the earlier game. Even some of the locals were embarrassed. One person sitting next to us pointed to the cheerleaders and said sheepishly, “That is so Provo.” I didn’t have the heart to tell him that the same malady had infected the other Olympic hockey games as well.

 

As for the game itself, it initially looked like the much stronger (on paper) Russian team would dominate the match. Pavel Bure scored a goal early in the first period, while the Russian defense allowed the Finns only two shots on goal during that time. However, the tide turned in the second period when Teemu Selanne scored a beautiful goal for the Finns. Another goal late in the second period put Finland up 2-1 going into second intermission. The Russians stepped up their intensity at the beginning of the third period. But, a power play goal by Jere Lethinen sealed the game for Finland. The final score was Finland-3, Russia-1.

 

The game was another great example of how well hockey can be played when the best players in the world are playing it. We also enjoyed the good sportsmanship and general “Olympic” feeling of the crowd. All in all, watching the game was a great way to spend a rainy, cold afternoon in Provo.

 

Pictures (from top left):

 

1. Faceoff in the Russian zone. (ML)
2. Teemu Selanne on a breakaway. (ML)
3. Finland scores! (ML)
4. Finland celebrates their victory. (ML)
5. Dianne and me at the game. (DL)

 

 

                         

 

 

             

 

 

 

                                                                                                     

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