USA SNAP CANADA’S HOLD
Jocelyne’s golden ‘Oops’ shot decides grudge match
SHE’S practised the ‘Oops, I did it again’ thousands of times in training, and yesterday her signature trick was worth its weight in Olympic gold as USA’s Jocelyne Lamoureux-Davidson’s shootout winner broke a Canadian 16-year stranglehold on the women’s ice hockey title.
It was the perfect jaw-dropping finale to a game that was billed as a grudge match but swiftly developed into a classic for the ages at the Pyeongchang Winter Games.
At the same time as dashing Canada’s dreams of a fifth straight gold, Jocelyne’s moment of magic secured USA their first title since 1998 and avenged a heart-breaking and similarly dramatic loss last time out in Sochi.
The two titans of the ice are the only countries to have won gold in women’s ice hockey since it made its Olympic debut 20 years ago in Nagano.
After a see-saw clash in regulation, the sides entered overtime locked at 2-2 but could not be separated.
It was just as tight in the shootout up until sudden-death when USA coach Robb Stauber tapped Jocelyne to take the next USA shot.
She weaved in on twice gold medal winner Shannon Szabados, moved to her left with a backhand that drew the Canadian goaltender toward her and then pulled the puck to her forehand and slid it in behind her.
“I’ve done that thousands of times around tyres just set out on open ice,” Jocelyne said. “It’s called ‘Oops, I did it again’ and I’m just thrilled beyond words.
“I’ve butchered it a thousand times, ran into tyres, tripped over tyres just working on my hands. Just glad it worked out this time,” the 28-year-old said.
As exhilarating and redeeming a victory it was for the Americans, it was devastating for four-time gold medal winners Canada. In Sochi four years ago, it was they who spoiled USA’s late lead and snatched the win in overtime.
“I don’t think we had any regrets, but this medal really hurt,” said Canadian forward Melodie Daoust, pointing at the silver medal hanging around her neck as she spoke to reporters.
“And we’re going to have to move forward from now, but it’s painful.”