Exciting Showdown in Tessin: Lions Prevail 5-4
The Lausanne Lions returned home from Tessin with a sensational 5-4 victory against HC Lugano in a match filled with drama and skill. Presented by our main partner Vaudoise Assurances, this thrilling game highlighted the Lions’ tenacity and fighting spirit on the ice.
A Calm First Period
The game began with a cautious first period lasting about ten minutes, during which Lausanne dominated possession yet failed to score. Despite two power play opportunities, the Vaudois could not capitalize. Instead, it was Lugano who struck first, exploiting a rebound off goalkeeper Connor Hughes, giving them a 1-0 lead. However, forward Ken Jäger managed to equalize with less than three minutes remaining in the period, marking his first goal of the season, and the teams went into the break tied.
A Goal Fest in the Second Period
The second period kicked off with immense pressure from Lausanne as they aimed to take control of the game. Unfortunately, a penalty put them at a disadvantage, enabling Lugano’s top scorer Luca Fazzini to seize the opportunity and score. The Tessin team extended their lead to 3-1 midway through the period, but the Lions were not ready to back down.
Firstly, Benjamin Bougro scored his sixth goal of the season with a superb one-on-one play, reducing the deficit. Just a minute later, Jason Fuchs took advantage of a power play, scoring within six seconds to level the score at 3-3 by the end of the second period. This thrilling exchange set the stage for a decisive final period.
Decisive Final Period
As the final period commenced, Lausanne carried the momentum from their comeback. Drake Caggiula gave the Lions their first lead of the night at 4-3 after 50 minutes. However, another penalty led to Canadian player Michael Sgarbossa scoring twice in quick succession, bringing the score back to 4-4. Lugano ramped up their efforts with an impressive 12 shots compared to Lausanne’s 4 in the closing period, but goalie Connor Hughes stood firm under pressure.
Ultimately, it was Swedish defender Erik Brannström who delivered the game-winning goal for Lausanne with a deflected shot five minutes before the buzzer. This exhilarating match saw both teams trading blows, but Lausanne’s defensive lapses and struggles on power plays proved costly. Nevertheless, the resilience of the Lions shone through, allowing them to reclaim three points from the Cornèr Arena, elevating them to second place in the National League standings.
Player of the Match: Benjamin Bougro
This season, Benjamin Bougro has emerged as a standout player, especially remarkable for a fourth-line forward, a position typically known for defensive play. At just 22 years old, he has already matched last season’s total of three goals in less than half the number of games, netting six goals in just seven matches this season. Bougro’s breakaway goal was pivotal for Lausanne, illustrating the value of the fourth line not only in defensive contributions but as a significant offensive threat. Coach Geoff Ward can rely on them in critical moments, bolstering the team’s overall performance.
Looking Ahead
The Lions will continue to build on this momentum in their upcoming matches, buoyed by their thrilling victory against Lugano. Fans are eager to see how they will perform as they strive for further success in the league.
