Lie of the Tiger

Olympia Eissportzentrum - Swinging derby last night between EHC München and the Straubing Tigers. After two defeats in a row, EHC managed a 2-1 victory after a penalty shootout, resuming the climb to the summit where they left off.

In the first period EHC started to charge with an excellent play in center and constant presence in front of the opponent's goal. Munich scored the first goal just 6:45 minutes in the opening period, thanks to the excellent play of Klaus Kathan and Stéphane Julien that allowed to Christian Wichert to score.

The Tigers' paw came just 5 minutes into the second period.  Daniel Sparre scored on a power play goal that was made possible to the increased physical play.  After a fierce start by both teams in the frame, several fouls by both teams suggested the high level of competitive spirit of the match.  Munich's Noah Clarke's high sticking penalty lead to the man-advantage for the visitors and they took advantage.

The third period was scoreless, which forced the game into OT. Neither Munich nor Straubing could manage to score in the extra period, thus sending the game into penalty shots.

The shootout saw Martin Buchwieser as the architect of the goal that gave the victory to Munich after a match fought on equal terms by both teams.

There was satisfation on head coach Pat Cortina´s face who said, "I am pleased how we handled and contained the Straubing strength, especially in the second and third period."

The next game is on Sunday in Augsburg for another derby.  EHC return home on Friday, October 14th to host the Krefeld Penguins. Face off is at 19:30 at Olympia Eissportzentrum.