Gottéron Extends NL Win Streak on Day 9 with Ambri Victory
Fribourg-Gottéron continued its solid form in the Swiss National League (NL) by earning a 3-1 win over Ambri-Piotta on Day 9. The Dragons, who had struggled to find the back of the net early, staged a comeback that underscored their resilience this season. Ambri struck first, taking a lead after 11 minutes, but Gottéron flipped the script with a determined display and a potent forecheck that paid off in the middle period.
Bertschy’s Brace seals the comeback
The turning point came from a blue‑collar effort from a member of Gottéron’s forward group. A two‑goal burst by Bertschy in the middle frame shifted the momentum and gave the home side the edge they needed. Gottéron’s defense tightened in the final period, and the game finished 3-1 in favor of the Fribourg outfit, marking the team’s fourth consecutive victory in the league and cementing their push toward a higher rung in the standings.
Season momentum and team cohesion
Coach and players have repeatedly cited the importance of balance between offense and defense, and Day 9 showcased that balance in spades. The late-game control and efficient power play execution helped Gottéron extend its win streak, while Ambri will look to regroup after a tough road loss.
A touching tribute: Andrei Bykov’s number 89
Beyond the hockey, the night carried emotional resonance as Fribourg‑Gottéron paid tribute to former star Andreï Bykov, who retired at the end of the 2023/24 season. Bykov’s legacy was honored through the jersey bearing his number 89. The number joined his father Slava’s jersey on the ceiling of the Fribourg arena, a symbolic gesture that linked generations of Swiss hockey and celebrated Bykov’s impact on the club and its fans.
National League round-up: Davos leads, Lausanne shines, and more
Day 9 in the NL also featured a flurry of results across the league. Genève-Servette failed to topple the league leaders Davos, losing 3-2 in a shootout after taking an early 2-0 advantage. Lausanne, the best Swiss team in the Romandy region on this weekend, delivered a strong performance with a 5-4 win over Lugano, powered by a Braennstroem brace that helped flip the script late in the game. In other action, Bienne claimed a dramatic win in a shootout against Ajoie (5-4), with Andersson contributing twice and converting three penalties to seal the result. Zurich slipped to a fourth straight defeat, losing 2-1 in overtime to Zoug, while Lugano took three crucial points by beating Rapperswil 4-1. Langnau also prevailed in a shootout at Kloten (3-2), and Davos maintained its undefeated start with a victory against the Lions in a separate fixture.
Outlook: Swiss NL on the rise
With Gottéron stacking wins and Davos showing no signs of slowing, the NL continues to deliver competitive hockey filled with tight contests and memorable moments. The Bykov tribute added an emotional layer to the on-ice action, reminding fans of the sport’s deep roots and family ties in Swiss hockey. As the league moves forward, teams will look to translate Day 9 momentum into sustained success, while fans enjoy the blend of youth, experience, and the rich history that makes the National League unique.
