Zlín, Czech Republic – The best-of-seven semifinal series between HC Baník Sokolov Berani Zlín and SC Kolín is escalating beyond the ice, with a recent incident involving a mascot and a player sparking controversy and a formal response from the Zlín club. The growing tensions culminated after Monday’s fourth game, prompting Berani Zlín to issue a statement addressing the situation.
The incident unfolded during overtime of the game. According to the official game report, the Zlín mascot began provoking Kolín goaltender Jakub Soukup. Witnesses at the arena reported that Soukup responded with a cross-check. The situation then spiraled into a larger altercation when the mascot became involved in a scrum with players from both teams, as detailed in the game documentation.
Berani Zlín, however, offered a different perspective. “Increased tension was, in our opinion, influenced by the inappropriate behavior of players from the visiting team, who repeatedly gestured towards our home fans throughout the game, contributing to the escalation of the atmosphere,” the club stated on its official website. https://www.beranizlin.cz/
Video footage captured by Hokejka TV showed Kolín forward Jan Veselý making gestures towards the Zlín fans. Further footage circulating on social media appears to show Veselý attempting to playfully tap the mascot as he left the ice, an action that seemingly ignited the on-ice melee.
The club acknowledged the mascot’s role in the incident, stating, “The club’s mascot similarly reacted to the situation. We greatly appreciate his commitment, energy, and efforts to support the team and fans. However, his behavior during yesterday’s game did not meet the standards of our club,” and confirmed they are addressing the matter internally.
Berani Zlín also strongly condemned fans throwing objects onto the ice. “Such behavior is unacceptable, endangers players and the progress of the game, and may lead to disciplinary sanctions against the club. We would like to point out that the entire stadium is monitored by a camera system,” the club stated, adding that they will pursue fines against those identified as responsible.
Adding another layer to the dispute, Zlín is considering a protest against the officiating crew – Roman Mrkva and Tomáš Micky – who worked the game. This potential action underscores the level of dissatisfaction within the organization regarding the handling of the match.
This series has already proven to be a tightly contested affair. Kolín won the second game of the series, leveling the score after Zlín took the initial lead. The teams then traveled to Zlín for games three and four, with the series now tied at 2-2. The next game, the fifth in the series, is scheduled for Thursday, March 26, 2026, in Kolín at 6:00 PM UTC. https://www.flashscore.com/match/hockey/kolin-zsELnWys/zlin-44vby3an/
The escalating tensions raise questions about how the remainder of the series will unfold. The league will likely be closely monitoring the situation to prevent further incidents. For Berani Zlín, maintaining focus on the ice will be crucial as they look to regain the advantage and advance to the final. The outcome of this series will have significant implications for both teams’ championship aspirations in the Maxa Liga.
The sixth game is scheduled for Saturday, March 28, 2026, in Zlín, followed by a potential seventh game if necessary.
Archysport will continue to provide updates on this developing story.
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