The Polar Bears Berlin have successfully started the new season of the German Ice Hockey League (DEL). The reigning German champions won their opening game against the Cologne Sharks 6:2 (1:0, 3:1, 2:1). Newcomers Gabriel Fontaine and Liam Kirk each contributed two goals to the clear victory, and Frederik Tiffels and Eric Hördler also scored for the Berliners.
In front of 18,600 spectators in the sold-out Cologne Arena, both teams were risk-averse in the early stages and struggled to create clear scoring opportunities. Thanks to an energetic individual effort from Fontaine, the visitors took the lead in the 13th minute and became much more determined after that. However, the defending champions failed to extend their lead despite several good opportunities.
Polar bears score three goals in a short period of time
Cologne found their way into the game better in the second period and were able to equalize with a goal from Justin Schütz (31st minute). The capital city team, however, were not shocked: Tiffels restored the lead (36th minute), and just 24 seconds later Hördler extended the lead. Shortly before the half-time whistle, Fontaine was able to increase the lead to 4:1 with his second goal in the power play (39th minute).
In the final period, Berlin managed to maintain its lead confidently, with Kirk scoring a late brace (57th/60th). Marco Münzenberger had shortened the lead for Cologne (59th). (dpa)
