United States put seven past Slovakia

The United States ice hockey team has got off to a flying start at the Sochi Winter Olympics, thrashing Slovakia 7-1 in today's Group A match at the Shayba Arena.

Paul Stastny scored twice during a six-goal barrage in the second period as Team USA recorded a comprehensive victory over their European opponents.

Ryan Kesler, David Backes, Phil Kessel and Dustin Brown also got themselves on the scoresheet, with Tomas Tatar netting his beleaguered side's solitary goal.

In other results, Alex Ovechkin earned himself a goal and an assist as the Russian Federation beat Slovenia 5-2, while Finland defeated Austria 8-4.

The game between Canada and Norway is currently underway.