Excitement is building for the first game of the Austrian Championship Final in the Alps Hockey League, featuring a clash between the Eisbären and Adler in Zell am See. The Eisbären, fresh off an impressive five-game winning streak, aim to defend their title against a formidable Kitzbühel team, highlighted by standout players like Ali Schmidt and Anthony DeLuca. With the game set for tomorrow at 19:30, fans can expect an intense matchup as both teams vie for the championship.
Excitement Builds for Game 1 of the Austrian Championship Final
The much-anticipated first game of the Austrian Championship in the Alps Hockey League is finally here! Fans have been eagerly awaiting the showdown between the Eisbären and Adler, two fierce rivals in the league. Tomorrow, these teams will clash in Zell am See, as they vie for the prestigious title.
Eisbären’s Road to the Final
For the Eisbären, the journey has been nothing short of remarkable. After an impressive streak of five consecutive victories, they finished the regular season at the top of the Alps Hockey League, marking a significant achievement as the first Austrian team to do so. This success not only boosts their confidence but also provides them with valuable points heading into the Master Round. Following a decisive 5:0 win against Gröden, the players have quickly shifted their focus to the finals, where they will face off against Kitzbühel in what promises to be the highlight of the season.
The first leg of the finals will take place tomorrow at 19:30 in Zell am See, following the Champions Hockey League format. This means that the overall winner will be determined by the aggregate score from the two matches, with no away goals counted. Should the scores be tied after regulation in the second game, overtime will be played. This marks the Eisbären’s third consecutive appearance in the finals, having claimed the title in the 2022/23 season and narrowly missing out to Salzburg last year.
Kitzbühel, the Eisbären’s opponents, have also had an impressive season. The Tyrolean team boasts a strong roster, featuring standout players like national goalkeeper Ali Schmidt and Luca Egger, who have both proven their mettle throughout the playoffs. Their defense is bolstered by Slovenian national player Podlipnik and the formidable Moritz Matzka, while young talent Loke Södergren shone in the recent derby. Offensively, former league top scorer Anthony DeLuca, who netted an astounding 50 goals last season, continues to be a key player with eight goals and seven assists in just seven games. With a mix of experienced Austrians and skilled international players, Kitzbühel presents a formidable challenge for the Eisbären.
Despite the competition, the Zellers are ready to make their mark. As the regular season champions, they bring not only skill but also the fervent support of their home crowd. “We are highly motivated and ready for a tough fight! Kitzbühel is a strong team, but we will give everything,” stated player Philip Putnik. With confidence high and a well-devised game plan from coach Marcel Rodman, the Eisbären are determined to bring the title home to Pinzgau.
Be sure to tune in tomorrow as the action unfolds at the KE KELIT Arena in Zell am See! The game will be broadcast live on Valcome.tv, although season passes will not be applicable for this event.
ALPS HOCKEY LEAGUE | Austrian Championship | SEASON 2024/2025 | Final Game 1
EK Zeller Eisbären vs. EC die Adler Kitzbühel 0:0 (-:-/-:-/-:-)
Thu, 06.02.2025 | 19:30, KE KELIT Arena Zell am See
Referees: Holzer / Orel