Release from 12.03.2024

ECB defenseman Henri Auvinen: "It's still possible, we just have to believe in it"

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The EC Bregenzerwald needs a win in the quarterfinals against the Rittner Buam SkyAlps on Tuesday. After three games, the Vorarlberg team is trailing 0:3. Before game four, we talked to ECB defender Henri Auvinen.

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The 31-year-old Henri Auvinen is currently playing his first season with the EC Bregenzerwald. In addition to his home country, the Finn has also played in France, Sweden, Poland and Denmark during his career. The defenseman has appeared in 43 games for Bregenzerwald so far, scoring 24 points. Auvinen has yet failed to get on the scoresheet against Ritten, but the Vorarlberg side have only scored two goals in three games. Nevertheless, the left-shooter still believes they can come back in the series: "It's still possible, we just have to believe in it. It's only small details that can turn a series on its head. We have to be really mentally strong."

Ritten surprised Bregenzerwald with their pick
Many, including Auvinen and the EC Bregenzerwald, were surprised that Regular Season champion Rittner Buam SkyAlps chose the sixth-placed team in the Master Round at the quarterfinal pick: "We were a bit surprised that they picked us. But we knew that one of the top four teams would be our opponent."

Lack of converting chances is the main problem
As a defender, Auvinen is mainly responsible for preventing goals from the opposing team; Bregenzerwald has conceded eleven goals in three games so far, but the quarterfinal newcomer is also struggling in the offense, scoring just two goals. For Auvinen, the lack of converting chances and Ritten's strong defense are responsible for this: "We had enough chances to score, but unfortunately most of the shots didn't go in. In addition, our opponent is very strong in defense and make life really difficult for us."

Home advantage should bring first win
Bregenzerwald continues with a home game on Tuesday. A defeat would also mean the end of the season. However, the Bregenzerwald defender is relying on the home advantage and hopes to give the fans a win: "Anything is possible, especially at home, where we've played better than away all season. Our fans are really fantastic. They deserve a home win."

Watch quarterfinal four between Bregenzerwald and Ritten on Tuesday from 19:30 live on valcome.tv.