Ďakujem! Grazie!

In the typical atmosphere of decisive events, Nitra and Unia Oswiecim close the Continental Cup weekend with a challenge that is decisive especially for the Poles, who must win in regular time to be able to stamp the ticket to the Superfinals

The first period is played at great intensity by both teams, driven by the cheers of their respective supporters, but without great chances, except for some shots from long or medium distance that do not worry the goalkeepers.

In the middle period the pace did not drop, but it was the hosts who took control of the game and created the best chances, until the logical goal ofJozef Balaz, who come at 24:14 on an assist by Tverdon. In the 29th minute Mike Cichy hit the post with a nice diagonal shot and asked the referees for a review confirming that the puck did not enter. It was Finnish Erik Ahopelto who created the best chance for Unia in the 33rd, forcing O'Connor into a demanding save and gaining a power play. In superiority comes the Polish draw with Mike Cichy, well assisted. Immediately afterwards it was Lindskoug who had to make an important save on Jakub Lacka.

In the last period Unia started very aggressive, keeping Nitra often in its defensive zone, but without creating great threats to O'Connor. Nitra broke the siege in the 48th minute with a shot from Reid Duke that did not surprise Lindskoug. The Unia goalkeeper was very responsive a few seconds later blocking an Adam Sykora finish with a spectacular dive. In the last 5 minutes the game becomes a real siege of Unia, which deserves a goal, but O'Connor's saves and a lot of inaccuracy in shots prevent it. It was Nitra who struck in the 54th minute with Martin Bodak perfect in finding the corner of the net with no chances for Lindskoug. The last minute played without a goalkeeper does not bring the equalizing goal, however useless for qualification.

Nitra finishes the group with a perfect record, flying in Superfinals with Asiago, while Unia remains at home with many regrets for the decisive defeat with the Italian club

Individual awards

Best Goalie Justin Fazio - Asiago

Best Forward: Jozef Balaz - HK Nitra

Best Defender: Branislav Mezei - HK Nitra

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