HV71 secured a significant 6-4 win over rivals Linköping during their recent SHL clash, marking their first time above the relegation zone since October. This victory was not only pivotal for HV71's morale but also deepened Linköping's troubles, pushing them closer to potential relegation.
The Saturday afternoon matchup at Saab Arena turned intense quickly. HV71's Radan Lenc opened the scoring, but Linköping responded strongly, briefly taking the lead 3-2 thanks to goals from Remi Elie and Ty Rattie. With the pressure mounting, HV71 managed to regain control, orchestrated by swift back-to-back goals from Joona Luoto and captain Olle Alsing, shifting momentum their way.
"We knew it was an important match, but we came in with nothing to lose," said Jonathan Ang, emphasizing the team’s confidence and approach to the game. With HV71 struggling early in the season, this victory offered the much-needed boost they had been craving.
Linköping's new head coach Anders "Ante" Karlsson faced his first match with high expectations, yet the realities of the game proved harsh. Despite the early successes on the scoreboard, his team could not maintain the lead. Rattie, who reached his 100th point with Linköping, expressed disappointment over their inability to keep the puck out of the net, stating, "We have to tighten it up in the third." This reflected Linköping's struggle, as they faced their sixth consecutive loss.
Olle Alsing, HV71's captain, described the game as "kaotiskt" or chaotic, showcasing the frantic pace of the match. It was notable how HV71's resilient response to the setbacks led to their thrilling comeback, sealing their pivotal win as they looked to build on the momentum.
This latest win means HV71 has now triumphed in seven of their last eight matches, signaling their resurgence as they navigate the complex waters of the SHL standings.
Henrik Borgström capped off the afternoon with an empty-net goal, bringing the final score to 6-4. HV71’s new-found position above the relegation line has energized the team and their supporters. Jonathan Ang concluded, "It’s enormous. It motivates us, and we never want to find ourselves back there again." The win not only boosts HV71's confidence but also leaves Linköping grappling with urgent questions about their future as they now sit perilously close to the relegation battle.
