Salzburg’s Reign Ends: Pustertal and Graz Advance in ICE Hockey League Playoffs
The EC Red Bull Salzburg’s four-year championship streak has come to an complete, falling to the HC Pustertal in a grueling quarterfinal series. Meanwhile, the Graz 99ers secured their spot in the semi-finals with a dominant sweep over the Villacher SV.
Salzburg Stunned in Overtime Thriller
The HC Pustertal defeated Salzburg 2-1 in a game that stretched to three overtime periods – the second-longest game in ICE Hockey League history. Peter Schneider initially put Salzburg ahead in the 18th minute, marking his first point of the series. However, Pustertal responded with a goal from Tommy Purdeller in the 37th minute, leveling the score.
Despite opportunities in the overtime periods, including two near misses for Pustertal hitting the post, the decisive goal didn’t come until the 105th minute and 38 seconds, scored by HCP captain Raphael Andergassen. This marks Salzburg’s first playoff series loss since Spring 2021.
Graz 99ers Dominate Villacher SV
The Graz 99ers delivered a commanding performance against the Villacher SV, completing a 4-0 sweep in the quarterfinal series with a 6-2 victory. The 99ers took control early, scoring four goals in the first period alone. Lukas Haudum opened the scoring, followed by goals from Chris Collins, Nick Swaney, and Kevin Conley within a span of 87 seconds. Kasper Kotkansalo and Conley added further goals before the first break.
Even as the VSV managed to score two goals in the second period through Adam Helewka and Brett Budgell, Graz maintained control and secured their third-ever semi-final appearance, and their first since 2019.
Other Series Updates
The series between Fehervar and the KAC is closely contested after Fehervar won the second game 2-1, bringing the series to a near tie. Olimpija Ljubljana is on the verge of advancing to the semi-finals after a 4-0 win against Bozen.
FAQ
Q: How long was the game between Salzburg and Pustertal?
A: The game lasted 105 minutes, making it the second-longest game in ICE Hockey League history.
Q: What was the final score of the Graz 99ers vs. Villacher SV series?
A: The Graz 99ers won the series 4-0, with the final game ending 6-2.
Q: When did Salzburg last lose a playoff series before this year?
A: Salzburg last lost a playoff series in Spring 2021.
Q: Who scored the winning goal for Pustertal?
A: Raphael Andergassen scored the winning goal for Pustertal.
Q: What is the status of the Fehervar vs. KAC series?
A: The series is tied after Fehervar won the second game 2-1.
Q: What is the status of the Olimpija Ljubljana vs. Bozen series?
A: Olimpija Ljubljana leads the series 3-0.
