Vienna Capitals Clearly Defeated by League Newcomer Milano

The Vienna Capitals were defeated 2:6 by league newcomer Milano HC in the fifth round of the win2day ICE Hockey League.

In front of 4,920 fans, the Viennese got off to a cold start: Antonitsch was in the penalty box when Finoro put a rebound into the net (7th minute/PP).

Four minutes later, the Capitals were again shorthanded after a penalty against Kosmachuk. After 19 seconds, Dal Colle completed a perfect pass from McKegg to make it 2:0 (11th minute/PP).

Another 13 seconds passed before the score was 3:0: Caamano had no trouble converting McLaughlin's cross-pass on a counter-attack (11th minute).

Viennese Quick Double, but Milano Remains Efficient

The Black and Yellows responded in the middle period. Top scorer Gersich deflected a Bailen shot unstoppably for his fifth goal of the season, cutting the deficit to 1:3 (24th minute).

Shortly after, the "Caps" had a power play following a foul by Frycklund, during which Kosmachuk blasted the puck directly under the crossbar (26th minute/PP). The assist came from Komarek, who celebrated his debut in a Capitals jersey after an injury break.

The quick double shifted the momentum in favor of the hosts – Vey (31st), Gersich (32nd), and Komarek (34th) missed good opportunities. Milano, however, proved clinical: Chiodo ruthlessly fired the puck into the net (37th minute).

Defensive Error Nips Potential Comeback in the Bud

In the final period, Milan nipped any comeback hopes for the Viennese early on. Houde was left criminally alone in front of the goal, deked goalie Reideborn, and scored into the empty net (43rd minute).

Head Coach Mike Stewart's squad tried to at least score the 3:5. Lindner had the best opportunity, but his shot hit the outside of the post. Gregoire put the rebound wide (51st minute).

Dal Colle scored the final goal: The number-5 pick in the 2014 NHL Draft completed his brace after Reideborn had left the ice for a sixth skater (58th minute/EN).

Milan Continues Strong Season Start

Milano prolongs its successful start to its debut year, drawing level on points with league leaders KAC (twelve points) with its fourth win in five games. Next Wednesday, the two teams will face each other directly in Klagenfurt.

The Capitals suffer another defeat 24 hours after their bitter 2:3 overtime loss to the Graz99ers. With six points, the Viennese are in eighth position before the remaining games of the fifth round.

The "Caps" await a home game against HC Innsbruck next Friday.