SOCHI, Russia -- North Dakota alum T.J. Oshie scored four shootout goals, including the game-winner, as the United States defeated host Russia 3-2 Saturday at the 2014 Winter Olympics.
The United States improved to 2-0 with the victory.
Oshie scored four times on six tries in the shootout, with five of the attempts coming in game-deciding situations. International Ice Hockey Federation rules allow any player to take an attempt after the first three shooters go. He scored as USA’s first shootout shooter and added three more goals to secure the dramatic win.
"[I felt the pressure] a little bit,” Oshie told the media after the game. "I think once the puck hits your stick and you start skating down the ice, it’s just you and the goalie and you block everyone else out. I was fortunate enough to keep him guessing and Quickie slammed the door on them."
USA captain Zach Parise, also a former UND standout, was held off the scoresheet but logged more than 18 minutes of ice time.
On the official box score, Oshie will get credited with one goal. But his 4-goal shootout performance will forever be the story.
"I think T.J. Oshie is going to be a household name after that display he put on,” USA forward and Oshie’s St. Louis Blues teammate David Backes said. "Kids will be out on the pond in Minnesota throwing a five-hole on the goalie three or four times in a row. He's been great these first two games, helping us win both of them."
"His hockey sense is off the charts and he makes plays," Backes said. "Today he got to do it in front of a lot of spectators here and a lot of spectators back home."
Other Notes: Matt Antoine of California (Pa.) took bronze in men's skeleton.