Game report
The Red Bull Hockey Juniors started with pressure from the first minute of the game and set the pace in the match against HK Celje. Already in the 4th minute of the game Adrian Gesson succeeded in overcoming the goalkeeper of the hosts for the first time after preparatory work by Alexander Rebernig. However, Celje showed their fighting spirit and equalized just one minute later (5th) through Jure Sotlar to make it 1:1. In the 9th minute, the Juniors used a double overtime to take the lead again: Leon Kolarik scored after a pass from Jakob Schnabl to make it 2:1. Despite further chances on both sides, the first period remained scoreless.
The game remained evenly poised in the second period. The Juniors were given an early chance to gain the advantage, but were unable to capitalize on it. Both teams engaged in an intense exchange of blows with tough duels and good chances. In the 39th minute, Celje finally managed to equalize again through Mikus Mintautiskis.
The game remained exciting and physical in the final period. Both teams were looking for a decision, but it took until the 52nd minute of play for Paul Vinzens to give the Juniors the lead again after preparatory work by Adrian Gesson and David Cernik. Celje tried everything once again in the final minutes of the game and opted for a sixth outfield player, but the Red Bull Hockey Juniors defended consistently and held on to their narrow lead.