Release from 26.03.2026

Zell am See opens semifinals with overtime win

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Defending champions EK Die Zeller Eisbären had to battle hard against semifinal debutants HC Gherdeina valgardena.it in Game 1 of the series, but ultimately edged a narrow 2–1 overtime victory. The visitors from South Tyrol were leading until the 57th minute before Christian Jennes found the equalizer. Just 53 seconds into overtime, Nick Huard secured the series lead for Zell am See.

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In front of more than 2,000 fans at the KE KELIT Arena in Zell am See, the game was a tightly contested and thrilling affair. It started perfectly for the semifinal newcomers from Val Gardena, who took the lead in the ninth minute on the power play through Luke Moncada. The South Tyroleans capitalized on their only man advantage of the entire game with clinical efficiency.

The Polar Bears had two power-play opportunities in regulation but were unable to convert. However, they made it count in overtime. For large stretches of the game, both teams’ defensive units and goaltenders dictated the pace of play.

Val Gardena were just 192 seconds away from a perfect start to the semifinals before Christian Jennes, assisted by Max Wilfan, tied the game 1–1 in the 57th minute to force overtime. Early in the overtime, Val Gardena forward Stephan Deluca was sent to the penalty box after 38 seconds. Just 15 seconds later, Nick Huard scored the 2–1 winner for Zell am See, sealing the opening victory for the home side. The semifinal series continues on Saturday at 17:30 in Val Gardena.

Alps Hockey League:
Thu, 26.03.2026:
EK Die Zeller Eisbären – HC Gherdeina valgardena.it 2:1/OT (0:1, 0:0, 1:0, 1:0)
Referees: LAZZERI, WINKLER, Brondi, Strimitzer
Standing in the best-of-7 series: 1:0
Goals EKZ: 1:1 Jennes C. (57.), 2:1 Huard N. (61./PP1)
Goal GHE: 0:1 Moncada L. (9./PP1)

Copyright: EKZ/Radlwimmer