Ice hockey: an LHC takes the lead on Zurich terrace and takes the lead

The match at the top of the championship between Lions turned to the advantage of those of Lausanne against Zurich (2-0). Thursday at the Vaudoise arena, 48 hours after its poor performance against the Geneva rival in the Champions Hockey League, the LHC reacted like a boss. Under the eyes of Ahti Oksanen, returned from Finland, he recited a score worthy of a top class performer, a rank he now occupies thanks to this success.

Excessive arrogance, strategic decision or slight injury? In any case, the Zurich staff made the curious choice of leaving their starting goalkeeper Simon Hrubec in the stands for this duel at the top of the table. For his fourth start of the season, Robin Zumbühl was put under pressure from the first seconds.

Geoff Ward’s men were rewarded for their excellent start to the game when David Sklenicka (10th, 1-0) found the top corner with a long shot on which Damien Riat masked the opposing goalkeeper. Michael Hügli (14th, 2-0) was then quickest on a puck that was lying in front of the goal.

Lausanne’s domination was further accentuated in the second period. Between the 26th and 32nd minute, the Vaudois asphyxiated the ZSC Lions, without succeeding in achieving something. From the 33rd minute, Zurich showed up, but came up against Kevin Pasche who made three decisive saves in less than 60 seconds.

Thanks to its 31 saves, the last Lausanne rampart, once again imperial, obtained its fourth shutout of the year.

Lausanne will travel to Zug this Friday with the firm intention of maintaining its place on the National League throne.

Lausanne – Zurich 2-0 (2-0 0-0 0-0)