In an exhilarating embrace of ice and ambition, the Eisbären Berlin have launched their new DEL season with a flair reminiscent of a maestro conducting a symphony. With a resounding bang, they dominated the Kölner Haie with a commanding 6-2 victory, then followed that up with a compelling performance that turned the Iserlohn Roosters into mere spectators, ending the match at 4-1 (1-1, 1-0, 2-0). That’s a promising start that leaves fans buzzing with anticipation for what lies ahead. The stage was set in Köln, where goaltender Jake Hildebrand traded his hockey stick for his wife’s hand, marking a new chapter as he prepares for fatherhood. In his absence, the Eisbären confidently fielded Jonas Stettmer, a talent bursting at the seams, allowing Hildebrand some precious time with family. On the ice, Stettmer faced an early challenge with a swift strike from Noel Saffran at just 3 minutes in, but the seasoned DEL record champions—boasting ten titles—refused to falter. With a resolve akin to a lion’s heart, Manuel Wiederer took to the ice, executing a breathtaking solo that culminated in a thundering equalizer at 1-1 by the 14th minute. But Wiederer was just getting started; his remarkable skill struck again as he mirrored his earlier triumph to put the Eisbären ahead 3-1 in the final third of the game. It was a performance as satisfying as the first sip of hot cocoa on a frigid winter day. Throughout the game, the Eisbären’s power play shone with brilliance, a well-oiled machine. Blaine Byron crept stealthily and opportunistically into an open space, deftly scoring a go-ahead goal just 48 seconds into their man advantage, courtesy of a precise pass from Liam Kirk. Gabriel Fontaine sealed the victory with a slick finish, benefiting from Leo Pföderl’s clever setup at 53 minutes. Captain Marcel Noebels shared the team’s ethos: “While we constantly strive for improvement, there’s a lot to be proud of in this start. The Eisbären have a thrilling journey ahead, and we can’t wait to share it with our fans!” In what promises to be an exciting thrill ride, the next stop on this season’s adventure is a home game against Augsburg this Friday at 7:30 PM—an opportunity for the Eisbären to bask in the roar of their fans before hitting the road for three more demanding away games. The ice glistens in anticipation, and so do the hearts of the Eisbären faithful, ready for more magical moments to come.
Original Source: www.berliner-kurier.de
