Release from 06.04.2023

Bolzano gets shutout in finals opener

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The HCB Südtirol Alperia decided the win2day ICE Hockey League finals opener in their favor. The top-seeded team from Bolzano won 1:0 at home against EC Red Bull Salzburg on Thursday. While Christian Thomas provided the decisive goal in the first period, HCB goalie Sam Harvey recorded his second shutout in the playoffs. The second game of the "best-of-7" series will take place on Saturday in the Eisarena Salzburg.

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The two teams showed in front of more than 5,500 spectators from the beginning why they have by far the best defense of the season. After four minutes Salzburg came dangerously in front of Sam Harvey's goal for the first time, but the HCB defense defended with combined forces. After the guests failed to capitalize on the first power play, Bolzano took the lead in the 14th minute. Mitch Hults captured the puck in the offensive zone and passed to Christian Thomas, who finally found the back of the net after several attempts.



With the best chance for the equalizer, the HCB defense again resisted with all means. With the narrow Bozen lead it went into the first break. Even after the restart, the home side made it difficult for the reigning champions - among other things with many blocked shots and a physical style of play. Head coach Glen Hanlon's top-seeded team was unable to capitalize on two power play, while Salzburg even missed a shorthanded goal on a counterattack. The game remained the same in the third period. Both teams continued to create offensively, but there were only a few very good chances. Troy Bourke missed the best for the equalizer. After a pass from Paul Huber, the Red Bulls forward failed to beat the outstanding Harvey. The Salzburgers had a few more good scoring opportunities during a final push, but Bolzano remained without a goal and finally got the first win of the "best-of-7" series. The second duel will take place on Saturday in the Eisarena Salzburg.

win2day ICE Hockey League, 1st final game:
Thu, 06.04.2023: HCB Südtirol Alperia - EC Red Bull Salzburg
Referees: HRONSKY, NIKOLIC M., Durmis, Konc.
Goal Bolzano: Thomas (14.)
Standings in the "best-of-7" final series 1:0

Photo: HCB/Vanna Antonello