A different kind of Miracle on Ice
One of a sport’s superpowers beating the other isn’t normally classed as an upset for the ages, but the United States women’s ice hockey team channelled the spirit of Lake Placid as they beat Canada for gold in Pyeongchang
As individual sporting feats go, there really is no comparison. A full strength Soviet side went to Lake Placid in 1980 as unquestioned favourites having won the previous four editions. The hosts were without their best stars. Back in those days NHL players weren’t permitted in the Olympics so a crew of college players and career minor leaguers made up the roster for the USA.
Then, on February 22, it happened. Herb Brooks marshalled a side captained by Mike Eruzione to pull of the ultimate upset. USA 4 USSR 3 read the final score, a come from behind win. Technically that game didn’t win gold - the US secured that with victory over Finland two days later. It is, however, the one that lives in memory. From the ‘Do you believe in miracles?’ line from Al Michaels on commentary toKurt Russell’s portrayal of Brooks in the movie Miracle.
