Vienna Capitals narrowly won 3-2 at VSV Arena in the second round of the win2day Ice Hockey League.
The Capitals gave up a lot of goals in the first half, but VSV's attack was often left stranded by VIC keeper Tyler Parks. Alexander Rauchwald shoots from the right after a pass from Scherbak, but Parks denies the VSV player the opening goal.
On the other hand, the Viennese try to create danger with quick counter-attacks. Jeremy Gregoire passes the ball to Zane Franklin in a 3v1 situation, but the pass is very inaccurate.
Franklin gives penalty – Hancock scores at the other end
Shortly after the break, VSV defender Patrick Holloway brought down Franklin. The Viennese concede a penalty kick – but Franklin hits the puck with his stick.
The home side then received some time penalties, but the Capitals were unable to turn their numerical advantage into something that could be counted. On the other hand, John Hughes scored the supposed opening goal, which was disallowed due to a high stick.
Just a minute later, Villach scored the opener. Dylan McPherson finished off the advantage after Gregoire's run from the left wing. Parkes blocked the shot and Kevin Hancock finally put the ball in the net with the rebound (33'/PP).
Capitals turn deficit into 3-1 win
The abruptly cut-back gave the Viennese the spark they needed, with Nicolas Hartl picking up the ball behind the curve and sending a perfect pass to Brett Kemp. The VIC winger scored a surprise equaliser to make it 1-1 (39/SH).
In the final period, the Capitals suddenly took control of the action on the ice. Brett Kemp capitalized on the power play after holding VSV goalie J.P. Lamoureux. The offensive crack put the Capitals ahead with one shot and a low shot to the left corner (52./PP).
And two minutes before the end, Jeremy Gregoire also scored after Vienna made it 3-1. The Canadian took a short corner kick to goalkeeper Jean-Philippe Lamoureux (58).
Dylan McPherson then narrowed the gap with a blue finish. However, the Capitals could prevent a tie.
So the Capitals can look forward to their first win of the season. So VSV still have no points.
ICE: Power Rankings Before the Start of the Season
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