Liptovský Mikuláš Edges Zvolen in Thrilling Playoff Opener
Liptovský Mikuláš defeated HKM Zvolen 2-1 in overtime during the first game of the Tipsport Liga playoff preliminary round on Wednesday, March 11, 2026. Marek Vankúš scored the winning goal for Liptovský Mikuláš with just nineteen seconds remaining in the extra period, securing a 1-0 lead in the best-of-three series.
Game Summary
The game was a tightly contested affair, remaining scoreless through the first period. Carter Robertson put Liptovský Mikuláš ahead at 26:00, but Zvolen responded with a goal from Carter Berger at 36:00. The score remained tied at 1-1, forcing the game into overtime.
Overtime Drama
The overtime period was filled with tense moments. Zvolen had a goal disallowed due to a high-sticking penalty. Vankúš capitalized on a breakaway, scoring the decisive goal at 79:41, assisted by Šandor.
Key Moments
- 26:00: Carter Robertson (Liptovský Mikuláš) scores, assisted by Cormier and Ferkodič.
- 36:00: Carter Berger (Zvolen) scores, assisted by Cassels and Jääskeläinen.
- 79:41: Marek Vankúš (Liptovský Mikuláš) scores the game-winning goal in overtime, assisted by Šandor.
Upcoming Schedule
The second game of the series is scheduled for Thursday, March 12, 2026, at 18:00, again at the ice rink in Liptovský Mikuláš.
Game Statistics
HK 32 Liptovský Mikuláš 2 – 1 HKM Zvolen (0:0, 1:1, 0:0 – 1:0)
Goals: 26. Robertson (Cormier, Ferkodič), 80. Vankúš (Šandor) – 36. Berger (Cassels, Jääskeläinen)
Penalties: 5:4
Attendance: 1102