In the sold-out Dynamo Dresden football stadium, the German champions prevailed against the bravely fighting hosts from Dresden. Liam Kirk scores for the Eisbären Berlin in extra time to win the DEL outdoor game.
The Eisbären Berlin won the Winter Game of the German Ice Hockey League (DEL) against the Dresden Eislöwen. In the sold-out Rudolf Harbig Stadium, where the second division soccer team Dynamo Dresden usually plays its home games, the German champions won against the bottom of the table 3-2 after extra time on Saturday.
“It was very memorable to score the goal. I’m not usually that excited about goals. But this spurred me on, especially right in front of our fans. It was an incredible experience overall,” said Kirk.
In front of 32,248 spectators, Liam Kirk, who had already scored in regular time, scored the capital city team’s winning goal in overtime. Ty Ronning was also successful for the Berliners. Tomas Andres and Alec McCrea scored for Dresden.
In frosty temperatures, the guests had more of the game in the opening third, especially since Dresden had a few early time penalties. However, the home team defended consistently and repeatedly became dangerous with counterattacks.
Shortly after the first third break, Dresden took the lead. Andres scored in the 25th minute. After conceding the goal, the Eisbären increased the pressure and equalized through Kirk (34th).
Kirk scores in overtime to win
In the final period, both teams missed a few good opportunities before McCrea took advantage of negligence on the part of the Berlin defense and scored the hosts’ second goal (54′).
The Dresden team continued to defend with great effort, but Ronning was able to force extra time for the capital city team with a late equalizer (59′). It only took 14 seconds in overtime for Kirk to secure Berlin’s victory with his second goal.
10,000 Eisbären fans traveled from Berlin to Dresden to support their team. “We are really looking forward to the game,” said Berlin sports director Stéphane Richer before the game and emphasized: “The anticipation is not just among the players and coaches. The families and the office employees are also there.”
We are extremely proud to be able to play this game. It is a historic event for our club, the city and the entire region,” explains Eislöwen managing director Maik Walsdorf.
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