Steve Yzerman urges Canada fans not to get cocky

From James Toney, Sportsbeat, in Vancouver

STEVE Yzerman was doing his best not to gloat while outside - on the streets of Vancouver - a city was collectively losing its head.

HAPPY STREETS: Spirits are high in Vancouver, as the whole city starts to party following victory in gold medal men's hockey match (Getty Images)

Yzerman, Hockey Canada's general manager, was a part of the team that won Canada's last Olympic hockey gold, in Salt Lake City eight years ago.

But he admitted the overtime win over USA - a record eighth Olympic title - had special resonance, because of who it was against, where it was played and the manner it was won.

"When I rolled into Vancouver and saw the excitement, it was a bit of an eye-opener," said Yzerman.

"Canada has shown the world that we are pretty good people. I hope we remain humble and gracious.

"Let's not get cocky. Let's not get over-confident. It's hard to win."

Canada captain Sidney Crosby believes he has had a mixed tournament - although he contributed when it really mattered, decisively sticking the puck past US goalie Ryan Miller, who was later named player of the tournament.

But Yzerman hailed the influence of the 22-year old Stanley Cup winner, whose place in Canadian sporting legend is now secure, if it wasn't already.

"He's a complete player," he added.

"At times he's been clearly dominant, at other times he's been good. I think he played a good tournament. He's a very good player and he does a lot of things well.

"I just keep going back, he's such a young person to have the weight of the country on his shoulders.

"It's not just good enough that we just win. Everyone expects him to get a hat-trick every night." 

Canada coach Mike Babcock insisted he had no doubts perservering with Crosby during overtime, despite his offensive struggles during the tournament.

"I thought Iggy (Jarome Iginla) and Sid would have a chance and in the end, obviously, they made a good play," he said.

"It's just an unbelievable feeling. I can't even describe having the city of Vancouver and the country behind us. 

"It's a fine line to win. I thought the Americans were real good."

US coach Ron Miller admitted his players were hurting badly - and like Babcock urged NHL officials to allow the rosters to renew their rivalry in Sochi, something many club owners still remain opposed to.

"I hope the players, especially my group gets to go to Sochi," he said.

"It's tough to lose a game that way. I couldn't have asked for any more from our players.

"It's just a shame that both teams couldn't receive a gold medal out there.

"They played a great game but at the same time I say that, I think we played an equally great game."