No title defense: There will now be changes in Zell am See!

The Zeller Eisbären’s season ends with a clear 1:6 defeat against Val Gardena in the semi-finals. After a strong regular season, the play-offs fell short of expectations – now there are changes to the squad.

The Zeller Eisbären failed in the semi-finals of the Alps Hockey League. In the sixth game there was a clear 1:6 defeat against Val Gardena, meaning the series was lost 2:4. The South Tyroleans proved to be too strong – the Pinzgauers found no means, particularly offensively and in goal.

Disappointment despite a strong season

After the exit, managing director Patrick Schwarz was realistic to the “Kronen Zeitung”: “The team gave everything, but ultimately couldn’t find a recipe against Val Gardena.” Despite the disappointment, he points to the second best season in the club’s history. However, the big goal was only partially achieved with the Austrian championship title.

Crucial point game five

The decisive moment for Black was the fifth duel, where they conceded the equalizer to 3-3 70 seconds before the end and then lost in overtime. Overall, the offensive in the away games left a lot to be desired – only two goals in three games in Val Gardena were “not enough to win a series”.

Favorite not confirmed

After a dominant championship round, the Eisbären started the play-offs as title favorites. Reinforcements like Coffman, Szypula and Tomazevic even ensured additional quality in the squad this year after last year’s title win. However, in the crucial phase, some leading players fell short of expectations.

Changes in the squad

Coach Marcel Rodman will remain on the board next season, but there could be changes in the squad. Departures like that of Tyler Cuma are on the cards, and the future is also open for other legionnaires. At the same time, new league regulations come into force that make the use of three U22 and one U20 players mandatory.

Pic: EKZ/Radlwimmer

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