Game report
The game started evenly, with structured positioning on both sides initially slowing down the pace. As the game progressed, the Juniors gained more offensive momentum, while the hosts defended compactly and consistently disrupted shots on goal. Jesenice had their first power play in the third period, but Valentin Ankirchner remained confident. The Red Bulls' power play also failed to yield any results at first. With five against five, Nick Maul had the best chance of the period, but failed to convert after a pass from Benedikt Krainer. Twelve seconds before the end of the period (20th), Paul Oberhauser moved in front of Zan Us' goal after a pass from Nico Koschek and finished with a backhand into the short corner to make it 1-0.
Both teams started the second period at a faster pace. Jesenice had more possession in the opening minutes and put pressure on Ankirchner. The Juniors defended attentively while shorthanded, blocking numerous shots. After several intense shifts, Salzburg had a two-minute 5-on-3 power play. Maxim Eliseev converted Jesse Juhola's pass in the 37th minute with a one-timer to make it 2-0.
Jesenice opened the final period with a power play and pushed hard to close the gap. A goal was disallowed after video review. The game remained fast-paced and physical, with both teams creating chances during several power play situations. In the 54th minute, Vadim Schreiner took advantage of a 3-on-2 situation set up by Mathias Böhm and Nico Koschek to make it 3-0. In the final stages, the Juniors played out their lead with experience, securing Ankirchner's shutout and cementing their position at the top of the table.
