Gottéron Clinches 3-1 Win to Extend NL Streak
Fribourg-Gottéron stretched their National League winning run to four games on Day 9, defeating Ambri-Piotta 3-1 on home ice. The Dragons, who trailed 1-0 after 11 minutes, flipped the script with a concerted push that culminated in a second-half surge. Central to the turnaround was Nico Bertschy, who struck twice to secure the goals that sealed the victory and kept Gottéron perched atop their division in solid form.
Bertschy Delivers in the Clutch
The Swiss forward’s brace provided the spark Gottéron needed after a careful start. Bertschy’s two-goal burst not only put his team in front but also underscored the balance in Fribourg’s attack this season. The Dragons’ ability to convert opportunities in a disciplined, physical contest was on full display as Ambri pressed for an equaliser late in the game.
Tribute to Bykov: A Moment of Reflection at Fribourg
Beyond the scoreboard, the evening carried a poignant tribute to Andreï Bykov, who retired after the 2023/24 season. In a symbolic gesture, Bykov’s no. 89 joined his father Slava Bykov’s jersey on the ceiling of the Fribourg arena, a lasting reminder of the Bykov family’s impact on Swiss hockey. The moment resonated with fans and players alike, adding emotional weight to Gottéron’s sporting success.
NL Round-Up: Genève, Davos, and the Swiss League Landscape
Meanwhile in the National League, a busy weekend produced several notable results. Genève-Servette faced a tough test against a Davos side that has asserted itself as the league leader. The Aigles, who raced to a 2-0 lead after 14 minutes, ultimately fell 3-2 in a shootout, as Davos preserved their unbeaten start to the season and their top spot in the standings.
Bienne’s hunt for a regulation-time win continued, but the Seelanders snatched a dramatic 5-4 shootout victory over Ajoie, with Andersson delivering a standout performance by scoring twice and converting three penalties to pace the win. Zurich Lions, the reigning champions, were defeated 2-1 in overtime by Zoug, signaling the tight competitiveness that characterises the league this season.
Further down the table, Lugano secured a 4-1 win on the road at Rapperswil, while Langnau edged Kloten in a shootout, 3-2. In a separate note from the Romand capital, Lausanne also showcased their form, defending their status as one of the North-South contenders by securing another win, further intensifying the fight for playoff positioning.
Looking Ahead
Gottéron’s 4th win in the NL adds momentum as the team looks to maintain consistency through the mid-season grind. The tribute to Bykov sits alongside a performance that suggested the squad can win tight games while continuing to develop its depth. As the league unfolds, Davos’ unbeaten run will be put to the test against a rising field, including the likes of Genève, Lausanne, and Bienne, all eager to challenge the standings and make a late surge toward the playoffs.
