Ice Bears Berlin Fall Further Behind in DEL Title Race After Crushing Loss in Frankfurt
The Eisbären Berlin have suffered a significant setback in their quest for the top spot in the Deutsche Eishockey Liga (DEL) after a resounding 5-1 defeat to the Löwen Frankfurt on Wednesday evening. The defending champions now trail league leaders ERC Ingolstadt by a substantial eight points.
In front of a lively crowd of 6,225 at the Eissporthalle Frankfurt, the visitors started the game with a dominant display and controlled the puck for much of the opening period. However, they were unable to capitalize on their early chances and failed to find the back of the net.
After the first intermission, the wheels came off for Berlin. The hosts, who had posed little threat up to that point, seized the initiative just 55 seconds into the second period when Julian Napravnik put them ahead. The lead was extended by Chris Wilkie and Daniel Wirt within a two-minute span, leaving the Berliners reeling.
The visitors managed to regroup and improve their performance in the final period, but they continued to struggle in front of the Frankfurt goal. Yannick Veilleux eventually pulled one back for Berlin on a power play, but it proved to be a consolation as the Löwen put the game beyond doubt with late goals from Linus Fröberg and Dominik Bokk.
The defeat was a bitter blow to Berlin’s title aspirations. The defending champions have now lost four of their last five games and face an uphill battle to catch up with the frontrunners.
Frankfurt’s Resurgence
In contrast to Berlin’s struggles, Frankfurt have been in impressive form of late. Wednesday’s victory was their third consecutive win, and they have now moved up to third place in the DEL standings.
The Löwen were particularly impressive in the second period, when they took control of the game and scored three goals in quick succession. Their defense also played a key role in limiting Berlin’s scoring opportunities, with goalkeeper Jake Hildebrand making several crucial saves.
Key Takeaways
- Berlin’s poor form continued, with the defending champions now eight points behind leaders Ingolstadt.
- Frankfurt’s resurgence continued, with the Löwen moving up to third place in the DEL standings.
- The second period was the turning point in the game, with Frankfurt scoring three goals to take a commanding lead.
- Berlin’s inability to score early in the game proved costly, as they were unable to recover from the deficit.
- Frankfurt’s defense played a crucial role in the win, with Hildebrand making several key saves.
Conclusion
Berlin’s title defense is in jeopardy following their crushing loss in Frankfurt. The eight-point gap to Ingolstadt is a significant challenge, and the defending champions will need to turn things around quickly if they want to retain their crown. Frankfurt, on the other hand, are enjoying a resurgence and will be confident of continuing their climb up the DEL standings.
