The third final game between the Moser Medical Graz99ers and HC Falkensteiner Pustertal also goes to the Murstadt team. In front of their home crowd, the Styrians won 5-2 and could be crowned champions on Wednesday.
The final participants delivered an even first third. Pustertal started the game well, but was unable to capitalize on an early power play. The home team, on the other hand, was once again efficient and also showed off in the third game of the series: In the sold-out Merkur Ice Stadium, Kevin Conley deflected a shot from captain Korbinian Holzer in the twelfth minute to make it 1-0. As a result, the Graz team were in control, but Pustertal goalie Eddie Pasquale was able to distinguish himself a few times.
The home team went into the middle section with a majority. When the South Tyroleans were full again, Nicolas Wieser prevented the equalizer with a big save. With one more man on the ice, the Wolves managed to equalize: They tied up the 99ers and Jonathon Blum hit the top corner. The guests missed even turning the game around with another power play. At five against five, the Graz team went ahead again when they played the game quickly and Nick Swaney remained ice cold alone in front of Pasquale. Wieser excelled again in a 1-on-0 situation, and in the next one, Marcus Vela made it 3-1.
The 99ers started the final period with a power play, and after 50 seconds Paul Huber made the preliminary decision. A few minutes later, Huber even made it 5:1. The guests shortened the score again through Rok Tičar (47./PP), but there was no more tension. The hosts won 5-2 and have their first chance to win the championship title in Bruneck on Wednesday. The Graz team, who are still undefeated in the playoffs, could become the third team to achieve a “Perfect Postseason”.
Standing in the “best of seven” series: 3:0 Graz99ers
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