Škoda Plzeň Steals Game 3 in Thrilling Overtime Victory Against Sparta Praha
HC Škoda Plzeň edged out a 4-3 shootout win against HC Sparta Praha on Saturday, March 22, 2026, taking a 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven quarterfinal series. The game, played at the Sportovní hala in Prague, was a back-and-forth affair that ultimately required a shootout to determine the winner.
First Period: Raška Opens Scoring for Sparta
Plzeň started aggressively, but Sparta responded with a threat from Knot, expertly handled by Plzeň’s goaltender, Nick Malík. Adam Raška broke the deadlock for Sparta at 13:00, capitalizing on a play involving Krejčík. Despite further chances for both sides, including a missed opportunity for Plzeň’s Lalancette, Sparta held a 1-0 lead after the first period.
Second Period: Plzeň Strikes Back
The second period saw Plzeň come out strong, earning a power play but failing to convert. However, they soon found the equalizer through Lukáš Strnad at 26:00, assisted by Percy. Just three minutes later, Matyáš Filip extended Plzeň’s lead with a quick shot, assisted by Strnad. Sparta’s Filip Chlapík answered back in the power play, tying the game at 2-2 after 40 minutes.
Third Period and Overtime: Teplý and a Shootout Decide It
The third period was a flurry of action. Michal Teplý put Plzeň ahead again, deflecting a shot from Igor Merezhko. Sparta quickly responded with a goal from Jakub Krejčík. With the score tied, the game headed into overtime.
Overtime proved tense, with both teams creating opportunities. The game went to a shootout. Petr Zámorský and Matyáš Filip scored for Plzeň, while only Hyka managed to convert for Sparta. Nick Malík’s solid performance in the shootout secured the 4-3 victory for Škoda Plzeň.
Malík Stands Tall
Nick Malík was instrumental in Plzeň’s victory, making 38 saves during the game and stopping crucial shots in the shootout. He faced 41 shots overall.
Key Players
- Adam Raška (Sparta): Scored the opening goal.
- Lukáš Strnad (Plzeň): Scored the equalizing goal and assisted another.
- Michal Teplý (Plzeň): Scored the head-ahead goal in the third period.
- Nick Malík (Plzeň): Goaltender with 38 saves and a shootout win.
Game Statistics
- Shots on Goal: Sparta 41, Plzeň 46
- Power Play: Sparta 1/5, Plzeň 0/4
- Penalties: Sparta 5, Plzeň 4
- Attendance: 12,100
FAQ
Q: Who scored the winning goal in the shootout?
A: Petr Zámorský scored the decisive goal in the shootout for HC Škoda Plzeň.
Q: Where was the game played?
A: The game was played at the Sportovní hala in Prague.
Q: What is the current series score?
A: HC Škoda Plzeň leads the series 2-1.
Q: How many saves did Nick Malík make?
A: Nick Malík made 38 saves.
Did you recognize? Igor Merezhko was involved in several key offensive plays for Plzeň, including the assist on Teplý’s goal.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the special teams play in the upcoming games, as both teams had opportunities on the power play but struggled to capitalize.
Don’t miss the next game in this exciting quarterfinal series! Check back for updates and analysis.
