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by Digger

1979 Challenge Cup Series: NHL All Stars vs USSR National Team

The Challenge Cup Series was a one time event back in 1979. I remember hoping this series would continue for years to come. USA vs USSR had a rich history of various competitions from Olympic Basketball to Gymnastics. In '79, the NHL cancelled their annual All Star Game (Wales vs Campbell) to play the Soviets in an exhibition showcased at New York's Madison Square Garden.

NHL All Stars included Guy LaFleur, Mike Bossy, Brian Trottier, Larry Robinson, Ken Dryden, Bobby Clarke and Marcel Dionne. A few Soviet stars were big time names in international circles: Vladislav Tretiak, Sergei Kapustin, Boris Mikhailov & Sergei Makarov.

The first two games were classic contests. I was 14 at the time and went to MSG with my Dad for Game 2. The Garden was electric. A sold out crowd was chanting and screaming throughout. NHL Stars seemed to have the game in hand leading 4-2 until surrendering three unanswered goals to blow it 5-4.

The Soviets speed was unmatched by North American hockey players. NHL style play in those days was largely dump the puck into corners and let the big guys get physical and dig out the puck. Soviets were too fast and above this style of play. Overall, they were quicker and NHL players who normally pounded opposing skaters played relatively hit free hockey. I remember wondering why NHL players were on best behaviour (light checking) instead of playing their normal heavy checking style... especially defensemen. Perhaps part of the problem was NHL players being too slow and outclassed by a more disciplined Russian squad.

I had always hoped for repeat series but the Challenge Cup was a one time deal. I keep waiting to view one of these games on ESPN Classic (never re-broadcast). Canada's stars and various NHL teams played head to head matchups vs many Russian teams during the 70's.

Hockey soon changed once European players arrived to play North American hockey. 70's era hockey is still my favorite. Hard hitting, heavy checking games featuring the likes of Philadelphia Flyers, Boston Bruins, NY Rangers etc. The good old days.