Winter Olympics Ice Hockey: T.J. Oshie Delivers Big Win for Team USA Against Russia

27-year-old shot four out of six shootout chances

By Jordana Ossad Feb 15, 2014 6:04 PMTags
 T.J. Oshie, 2014 OlympicsGetty Images

T.J. Oshie delivered a big win and was the hero for Team USA against Russia on Saturday, in what is undoubtedly an instant Olympic classic match.

The 27-year-old first-time Olympian put on quite a show and converted four of six shootout chances, including the game-winner, against Russian goalie Sergei Bobrovsky.

Oshie's stellar performance paved the way towards a 3-2 shootout victory against the home team and crowd, including Russian President Vladimir Putin.

After a scoreless first period, Russia was first to score in the second period. Team USA charged back and scored a goal at the end of the second period, capitalizing on penalties against Russia.

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Team USA took a 2-1 lead in the third period thanks to a power play, but Russia tied it up again after a power play of their own. It appeared that the game might be over for Team USA after a goal by the Russians, but they were granted a huge break after the questionable play was taken back after a review.

The game went into a five-minute overtime session but neither team was able to score, leading to a shootout and Oshie.

"I think I aged two years in that shootout," coach Dan Bylsma told USA Today.

At one point, Russia took a 2-1 lead during the shootout and Oshie needed to score in order to keep Team USA's hopes alive. He did.

Oshie's teammates mobbed him after the magical and unbelievable feat.

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"You could feel from the beginning that both teams were playing hard," Oshie said during a post-game conference. "It seemed like from the beginning we were heading to overtime."

He added: "It was a great game, but I am relieved it's over."

Fans flocked to Twitter shortly after the victory to congratulate T.J. Oshie and Team USA, including President Barack Obama.

"Congrats to T.J. Oshie and the U.S. men's hockey team on a huge win! Never stop believing in miracles. #GoTeamUSA -bo"