two-game suspension for Renars Krastenbergs (VSV)

Renars Krastenbergs (#11) of EC GRAND Immo VSV, time 23:49 was involved in an incident deemed as Illegal Check to the Head or Neck (IIHF Rule 48). The video evidence was sent to the bet-at-home ICE Hockey League PSC, which determined the incident to be worthy of supplementary discipline - Category 1 - 'Careless'.

According to the Arbitrator and having considered the video evidence and ruling of the bet-at-home ICE Hockey League PSC, Renars Krastenbergs (#11) of EC GRAND Immo VSV will receive supplementary discipline under rule 48 – Illegal Check to the Head or Neck.

Friday night in Villach, Villach forward #11 Renars Krastenbergs, was involved in an incident deemed as Illegal Check to the Head or Neck on Klagenfurt defender #12 David Maier. The incident was sent to the ICEHL PSC and determined supplementary discipline is required under Category 1 - 'Careless'.

As the video shows, the ensuing play began in the neutral zone, with Krastenbergs in puck possession skating at a high speed towards the attacking zone, with Maier as the defender in attempting to gain puck possession. As both players pursue the loose puck, Maier gains the race to the puck, with Krastenbergs in close proximity behind changing to a defender role. With Maier focused on gaining and then corralling the puck to maintain puck control, Krastenbergs delivers a check, that makes the head of Maier the main point of contact. This is an illegal check to the head.

It is important to note, the battle between the 2 players was at a high speed, which did not allow for much reaction time for either player to prepare accordingly. With Maier having a focus on the puck, he does initially lower himself slightly, but does not significantly contribute to the cause of receiving head contact. Krastenbergs, in an attempt to separate the puck from the puck carrier, chose to avoid a puck first approach and instead, chose to use his body. Although checks in this type of situation's is common, Krastenbergs must take an approach that creates body to body contact and avoid head contact. It is determined that Maier's head did absorb the brunt of the impact, which lead to an apparent injury.

Key references:

• This is Illegal Contact to the Head
• Head contact on a vulnerable player
• Category 1 - 'Careless'
• Not a repeat offender

From the perspective of DOPS and according to the bet-at-home ICE Hockey League Penalty Catalog Ref. Nr. 112 - Checking to the head or neck area, Renars Krastenbergs (#11) of EC GRAND Immo VSV is suspended for 2 games and fined 400.00 Euros.

Next game Renars Krastenbergs (#11) of EC GRAND Immo VSV is allowed to play:
19.12.2021 EC GRAND Immo VSV vs. HK SZ Olimpija

DOPS made following video available: