Graz Comeback Ends with Just One Point

The Graz99ers hosted Olimpija Ljubljana at the Bunker on the ninth matchday of the win2day ICE Hockey League but had to concede a 3:4 defeat to the Slovenians after overtime.

After an early setback, the home team fought their way back into the game and forced overtime with a strong final phase. However, the guests had the last word there.

No sooner had the game started than Ljubljana struck: Lawrence scored after less than 25 seconds, giving the guests an early lead.

The Graz team initially struggled to find their rhythm. However, as the game progressed, the home team increased the pace and tried to create more offensive chances.

A too many men penalty put Olimpija shorthanded. The Graz team initially couldn't gain a decisive advantage from this.

Kevin Conley also had a good opportunity, but his shot didn't find the net. At the other end, goalie Henri Kiviaho prevented another goal by the Slovenians with a strong save.

Lippitsch brings Graz back

In the second period, the 99ers increasingly pushed forward. After a penalty against Douglas, the home team had a chance to equalize on the power play. Michael Schiechl had a good opportunity but failed to beat the opposing netminder.

Shortly thereafter, Ganahl was sent to the penalty box for slashing, giving Ljubljana their first power play. The Graz team survived this phase and struck themselves shortly after: Following a two-on-one rush, Lippitsch converted Currie's pass to equalize (37.). The Bunker erupted, with fans providing loud support.

Swaney then had to leave the ice for two minutes due to delay of game. The Graz team survived the shorthanded situation and went into the second intermission with an even score.

Open Battle in the Final Period

After the restart, Stapelfeldt was sent to the penalty box for hooking. Ljubljana capitalized on the pressure and took the lead again through Lawrence (44.). Shortly after, Meyer (47.) added another goal for the guests, presenting Graz with a difficult challenge.

But the 99ers didn't give up. After a penalty against Crnovic, the home team got a power play opportunity. Huber utilized the man advantage to reduce the deficit (51./PP). The game became increasingly intense, with both teams fighting for every puck.

The Graz team pressed on and were rewarded: Swaney scored the equalizer, bringing the home team back into the game. In the final phase, the encounter remained open. Both teams sought the decisive goal, but neither managed another score in regular time.

Meyer decides Overtime

This meant a five-minute three-on-three overtime. Both teams had the chance to secure the crucial extra point. Shortly before the end of overtime, Meyer struck, scoring the decisive goal for Olimpija Ljubljana (65.).