Patrick Tomasini: “We'll do everything we can to force a game six”

“Ritten played very compactly and put us under pressure right from the start. We didn't play our best hockey at times and perhaps weren't consistent enough in the decisive moments,” said Tomasini on the reasons for the 2:5 home defeat.

The pressure is now on Merano for the important away game on Tuesday if they want to keep the series alive. The 24-year-old is aware of the importance of the game and emphasized: “We know it's a do-or-die game for us. Now we have to quickly put the last game behind us, learn from our mistakes and go into the next match with full energy. If each and every one of us does their job, we have a very good chance of bringing the series back to Merano.”

Last season, the South Tyroleans also reached the quarter-finals, losing 1:4 to Cortina. According to Tomasini, who has played in Merano since 2021, another early exit would be painful. Nevertheless, the center remains confident: “Of course the disappointment would be huge, but the series isn't over yet. We believe in ourselves and will do everything we can to force a game six.”

Tomasini himself has recorded 31 points in 46 appearances this season, but is still waiting for his first point in the series against Ritten. He scored one goal in the pre-playoffs against Sisak. When asked about his personal performance in the playoffs, Tomasini remains modest: “Playoffs are always a team effort, and that's my top priority. Of course, there are always things you can do better, but I try to do my bit and help the team. In the end, it's the team's success that counts.”

Game five of the series between Ritten and Merano is available on valcome.tv from 20:00 on Tuesday.

Highlights quarter-final 4: