HV71 Coach and Rögle’s Manager Clash in Heated Post-Game Exchange

A contentious post-game press conference following an HV71 victory over Rögle BK escalated into a heated exchange between the two teams’ coaches, Anton Blomqvist of HV71 and Dan Tangnes of Rögle. The incident, which occurred after HV71 won 4-3 in a shootout, stemmed from comments made about a late-game penalty call and accusations of diving.

The Incident

The game saw HV71 leading 3-1 before Rögle mounted a comeback, tying the score 3-3 with just eight seconds remaining in the third period. This comeback was aided by a power play awarded after an infraction called against HV71’s Niklas Hansson for cross-checking Rögle’s Leon Bristedt in the back. Blomqvist questioned the legitimacy of the call, suggesting Bristedt may have embellished the contact.

Post-Game Confrontation

During the press conference, Blomqvist commented on the play, stating Hansson needed to be “much, much more aware of who it is that he is patting on the back.” Tangnes immediately challenged Blomqvist, demanding he take responsibility for his statements. The exchange continued with Tangnes accusing Blomqvist of questioning the integrity of Rögle’s players.

“You just said he wasn’t smart. Is he smart or not smart?” Tangnes questioned Blomqvist.

Blomqvist defended his statement, clarifying he believed Hansson made a “stupid decision” but is “fundamentally smart.”

Tangnes’ Outburst

Tangnes expressed his displeasure with Blomqvist’s comments, stating, “I don’t like it when you start talking about players in the other teams. You just won, stick with it. There is no reason… Comment on your own team and your own players.” When Blomqvist reiterated he was commenting on Hansson’s decision-making, Tangnes became visibly agitated.

“Stand by what you say instead, speak clearly. You can handle that, right? Or?” Tangnes exclaimed before slamming his fist on the table and storming out of the room, shouting “Tönt!” (a Swedish insult roughly translating to “idiot” or “jerk”).

Game Recap

HV71 ultimately secured the 4-3 victory after a penalty shootout. The win is crucial for HV71 as they continue to fight to avoid relegation in the SHL standings. They currently occupy a qualifying spot for relegation games with eight matches remaining and will next face Frölunda at home on Saturday.

About the Players

Leon Bristedt plays for Rögle BK. He was born on March 14, 1995, in Stockholm, Sweden. Elite Prospects provides further details on his career statistics and profile.

A video of the incident, including Bristedt’s reaction to the cross-check, is available on YouTube.

SVT Sport provides additional coverage of the event, including a video of the full press conference.