Staal Ties It, Rafalski's Goal Puts USA Right Back On Top

When Eric Staal's tip-in goal tied the game at 1-1, it seemed inevitable that the Canadians would grab control of the game and put the Americans back on their heels.

But another Brian Rafalski goal, just 22 seconds later, put the USA back on top and erased any momentum that the Canadians had built.

Ryan Miller has already faced 19 shots on goal in the first period, and has been as spectacular as we'd known he'd have to be for the US to win this game. What's been odd had been the sight of Martin Brodeur looking a bit shaky on the other end. The aggression and the confidence by the Americans has Canada thrown off a bit, but there is still 40 minutes to go. If the first period is any indication, this one could be a classic in the making.

Follow along and discuss the game with other hockey fans in SB Nation's live game thread.

More: SB Nation’s full coverage of the Winter Olympics and the 2010 Winter Olympics Medal Count Tracker.