The Eisbären Berlin have once again demonstrated their dominance in the Deutsche Eishockey Liga (DEL) by securing their place in the semi-finals after defeating the Straubing Tigers 4:1 in the fifth game of their quarterfinal series. This decisive victory, which took place on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at the Uber Arena in front of an enthusiastic crowd of 12,122 fans, marks the end of the series, which Berlin won 4-1 overall.
Leading the charge for the Eisbären was Ty Ronning, who achieved a remarkable hat trick during the match. Ronning initiated the scoring early on in the sixth minute during a power play, showcasing his prowess by converting a close-range opportunity following an assist from Frederik Tiffels. The early goal set the tone for the game, as it highlighted Berlin's aggressive style from the outset.
“We wanted to end the series today, and we managed to do it. Everyone pulled together, and it was a great team effort,” Ronning commented after the game, reflecting the unity and determination that propelled the team forward.
Following Ronning's opener, the Eisbären maintained control for much of the first period despite some pressure from the Tigers. They managed to fend off the guests’ advances, thanks in large part to their goalie, Jonas Stettmer, who excelled throughout the game and made several crucial saves, including one where he lost his stick.
In the second period, Gabriel Fontaine added to the Eisbären's lead, scoring in the 28th minute after a solo effort that left the Tigers' defense struggling. After securing the two-goal advantage, Berlin's players exhibited a mix of discipline and resilience, controlling the puck effectively and limiting the Tigers' scoring opportunities.
However, the Tigers weren't ready to give up. In the 46th minute, Mario Zimmermann scored for Straubing, narrowing the gap to 2:1, and it seemed as though a comeback might be in the works. Yet, within just 41 seconds, Ronning countered any hopes of a rally by restoring Berlin’s two-goal cushion, netting his second goal of the night to make it 3:1.
With their backs against the wall, Straubing pulled their goalie in search of more offense, but this decision led to further disaster as Ronning completed his hat trick by scoring into the empty net in the 58th minute, bringing the final score to 4:1.
“I am very proud of my players. They found a way to win the series. Stettmer was there when we needed him. Respect to Straubing, they fought hard and made it difficult for us,” commented Eisbären coach, Serge Aubin, noting the intensity of the encounter and the performance of his players.
The match showcased not only the Eisbären's scoring capabilities but also their defensive efforts. Despite a few errors and lapses, particularly in the first third, the team's ability to regroup and maintain control demonstrated their readiness for the challenges ahead as they now look toward the semifinals.
The first game of the Best-of-Seven series for a spot in the final will commence on April 1, 2025, at 19:30 at the same venue. The team will now face an uncertain opponent, with the standings of other remaining teams yet to be decided.
In the aftermath of the series, it's clear that the Eisbären Berlin have not only secured a place among the top teams in the league but continue to embody the spirit of champions. Their combination of skill, persistence, and teamwork paves the way for what could be another successful playoff run.
“As the first team in the DEL to advance to the semifinals, we are looking forward to continuing our title defense,” said Aubin, reflecting the hope and confidence of the team as they aim for glory.
