Eisbären Berlin made history by advancing to the Champions Hockey League quarter-finals for the first time, defeating Sheffield Steelers 4:2 in a thrilling match. After a challenging start, the team rallied with goals from Veilleux, Geibel, Ronning, and Byron, showcasing their growth. Despite a late goal from Sheffield, the victory was secured, celebrating a significant milestone for the German champions amidst a lively atmosphere with 4,227 fans in attendance. An injury to Watling marked a somber end to the match.
Eisbären Berlin Makes History in CHL Quarter-Finals
The iconic corrugated iron palace has witnessed a remarkable achievement as Eisbären Berlin has etched its name in the annals of club history. The team secured its inaugural entry into the Champions Hockey League (CHL) quarter-finals by triumphing over the Sheffield Steelers. This victory, marked by a confident display in the second leg, showcases the remarkable growth of the German champions.
In a thrilling match on Tuesday evening, Eisbären Berlin emerged victorious with a score of 4:2 (0:1, 2:0, 2:0) against the British team. After a solid win in the first leg, the Eisbären demonstrated their prowess, with goals scored by Yannick Veilleux, Korbinian Geibel, Ty Ronning, and Blaine Byron. This victory not only marks a milestone for the team but also sets the stage for a face-off against the Swiss champions, ZSC Lions Zurich.
A Night of Celebration Amidst Fierce Competition
The atmosphere in the sold-out corrugated iron palace was electric, with 4,227 fans in attendance, including a spirited group of traveling English supporters cheering for the Steelers. The match began with the visitors taking an early lead, as Marc-Oliver Vallerand capitalized on a power play, scoring with precision and leaving Eisbären’s goalie, Jake Hildebrandt, with little chance.
Despite this setback, Eisbären Berlin rallied, and after a challenging start, they began to assert their dominance. The turning point came when Eric Hördler swiftly transitioned the puck to Yannick Veilleux, who, with a stroke of luck, found the back of the net as Sheffield’s goalie inadvertently pushed the puck into his own goal. Just minutes later, Korbinian Geibel doubled the lead, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
With a three-goal cushion from the first leg, the Eisbären played with confidence, although Sheffield did not back down easily. The match saw intense moments, including a tense two-man disadvantage for Berlin, but their defense held strong. In the final period, the Eisbären capitalized on the gaps left by the Steelers’ aggressive play, ultimately leading to a goal from Ty Ronning. Despite a late goal from Patrick Watling, Blaine Byron sealed the victory with an empty-netter, ensuring a historic win for the Eisbären.
As the final whistle blew, the match concluded on a somber note due to an injury to Watling, but the achievement of reaching the CHL quarter-finals will be celebrated for years to come.