Olympics 2008 Features

Americans feel welcome Canadian red and white (News Feature)

By David Hein Feb 28, 2010, 21:34 GMT

Canadian fans wearing Canada flags walk through the Olympics unofficial party zone on the blocked off main thoroughfare of Robson Street in downtown Vancouver, during the 2010 Olympic Games, Canada, EPA/BARBARA WALTON

Vancouver - Canada Hockey Place was a sea of red-and-white in the final moments before Sunday's much-awaited gold medal match between Canada and the United States.

But there were a small share of brave individuals who doned the American red-white-and-blue.

'We are out-numbered for sure. But the Canadian fans have been very good to us,' said Karen West, who was draped in the US flag with 'USA' pained on her face just like her fellow Chicago native Kathy Whalen.

'It's a very friendly rivalry. And even if Canada lose we would not rub it in,' said Whalen, sitting in the front row.

'After the first time we took off our USA shirts and were cheering for Canada against Germany,' added West about the United States's 5-3 victory over Canada in the final round robin match last Sunday.

'Oh don't worry about them. I told them if we lose they just have to wait here until every one is gone. Then they could go,' interjected a smiling fan a row back with Canadian red and white.

Amid signs reading 'Hockey is Canada's Game' and 'ReMatch' and 'We prefer Canadian over Miller' - the final sign a play on beer and the US goalie Ryan Miller - was Benny Alon from Arizona.

'People love underdogs. We are the underdogs. You have to love it,' said Alon, who was wearing a US jersey.

'But the best two teams are here. And that's great. It's great for the NHL. And now we get a chance for revenge for Salt Lake City. '

Canada beat the United States for the gold medal at the 2002 Winter Games.

When asked if he thought about selling his tickets about 15 rows up behind the net, Alon joked: 'I was teasing my wife that she could have 60 pairs of shoes. But we go to the events.'

Alon said he had no concerns about his safety among the sold-out crowd.

'Not at all. But the main question is if they (Canada) lose after the game,' Alon said.

'Wife was a little concerned for my safety wearing the shirt.'

Alon has been at the Games since the day before they started. And he admitted that a Canada loss in the big game would help in one area.

'Well, we will have a whole lot more parking. And maybe we can get some sleep at night,' said Alon.