Photo credit: All Montreal Hockey
An ugly scene shook the game between Canada and Switzerland in Milan. Spectators literally threw beer cups onto the ice and toward the Canadian bench.
This kind of behavior has no place at the Olympic Games. Frank Seravalli also reports that the Canadian coaches are furious with the fans.
The act is dangerous to the physical safety of the athletes. Just imagine for a second if a superstar like Connor McDavid were to suffer a needless injury by slipping on a piece of plastic trash.
We’re talking about players worth millions who are risking their health for their country. Security must be much tighter when that much talent is on the ice.
We can agree that this situation completely disrupts the rhythm of the game. The coaching staff is right to demand firmer action from officials and organizers.
The ice must be cleaned without any confusion before play resumes. It’s a major distraction that the Canadian team truly did not need in the middle of a tournament.
“Canadian bench is irate as fans are throwing beer cups onto the ice here in Milan.”
– Frank Seravalli
A total lack of respect in Milan
The image of international hockey takes a serious hit with incidents like this. Switzerland is usually known for its class, but some individuals clearly missed the mark.
The outburst from the crowd most likely stemmed from frustration over a missed penalty call on Sam Bennett just moments earlier.
Replays appeared to show clear contact that went unpunished, and the non-call immediately drew loud boos from the stands. While emotions can run high in a tightly contested international matchup, especially with Olympic stakes involved, that frustration seemingly boiled over in an unacceptable way when cups were thrown onto the ice.
These spectators need to be removed from the arena immediately to send a clear message to others. Fans must understand that proximity to the players is a privilege that demands respect.
We hope local authorities will tighten things up for the remainder of the competition. Canada is here for gold — not to deal with crowd misconduct.
In the end, fans want to see high-level hockey, not a cup-throwing contest. Let’s hope the message gets through to ensure everyone’s safety through the final.
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Team Canada bench erupts as Swiss fans throw beer cups onto ice in Milan
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