A Fast, Engaged First Period
Lausanne kicked off the week with a pivotal 2-1 home win over HC Ajoie at the Raiffeisen Arena, extending the Lions’ winning run to four games. The match, presented by Vaudoise Assurances, featured back-and-forth chances and a high-tempo tempo as both teams sought to set the tone early.
The Lions wasted little time showing their power at the man advantage, converting their first two opportunities in the opening frame. Dominik Kahun opened the scoring with a smart finish on a well-executed rush, placing Lausanne ahead after a clean team move. Yet the visitors answered back on their first power play when the experienced Jeremy Wick beat the goalie, leveling the score and signaling a tense night ahead.
With under three minutes remaining in the period, Lausanne struck again on another power play. Ken Jäger fired a precise shot into the top corner, restoring the hosts’ lead and reinforcing Lausanne’s reputation as a dangerous team on the power play at home. Two goals on three power plays underscored the Lions’ efficiency in special teams and set the tone for the rest of the game.
Defensive Solidity and Standout Goaltending
After a lively start, the pace slowed, but the goaltenders remained sharp. Connor Hughes turned aside 24 of 25 shots, delivering a composed performance behind a defense that threw itself into the lanes and blocked multiple attempts to preserve the one-goal edge. On the other side, young netminder Noah Patenaude kept Ajoie within striking distance with key saves, helping keep Lausanne honest in a period where aggression often met tight coverage.
Lausanne’s defensive structure was evident as the game wore on. The forward lines supported the transition, and the defense corps sang in unison to deny second chances. The combination of goaltending and a cohesive back end allowed the Lions to weather late pushes from Ajoie and maintain their narrow lead.
Lausanne’s Power Play as a Consistent Threat
The home team’s power play remained a major asset throughout the evening. With two goals from three opportunities in the first period, Lausanne demonstrated why they rank among the league’s most efficient teams on the man advantage at home. The Lions continued to create chances, pressing to extend their cushion, but Patenaude and the Ajoie defense rebuffed several late attempts.
Impact on Standings and Momentum
With the victory, Lausanne sits in second place in the National League standings, boasting eight wins in ten games. They sit two points behind HC Davos, and the win reinforces their status as serious contenders as the schedule intensifies. The four-game streak marks a notable milestone this season, echoing a similar run earlier in the campaign before a setback against EHC Kloten. The current form provides momentum heading into a busy stretch of matches.
Looking Ahead
Next up for the Lions is a road test against EHC Kloten on Oct 1, with puck drop slated for 7:45 p.m. Lausanne will then travel to the OYM Arena on Friday for a meeting with EV Zug, before hosting the ZSC Lions on Saturday, Oct 4, at 7:45 p.m. The slate remains intense, but the current four-game run has reinforced confidence in Lausanne’s ability to grind out results against quality opposition.
