Cologne Express Looking for Consistency in Playoff Run In

[Bojovnik 487]

The VHLE Playoff Race is heating up as we enter the final third of the S85 regular season. It’s fair to say that matters at the top of the table are already decided, as runaway leaders Oslo Storm hold a seven-point lead over second-placed Bratislava Watchmen.

 

However, in the race for playoff places and playoff seeding below the two leaders, there is truly all to play for.

 

The Cologne Express, who recorded an overtime victory over the Oslo Storm on Sunday, are the best of the rest with 63 points, a nose ahead of Swedish sides Stockholm Vikings and Vasteras Iron Eagles.

 

Yaroslav Bogatyrev, the captain of the Express and one of the projected top picks in the VHL S86 Entry Draft, said after Sunday’s victory that the German side are confident in their ability to challenge the leaders.

 

“I think results like this show that we have nothing to be scared of when it comes to facing Oslo or Bratislava. Yes, they’re great teams, but we have all the talent and ability to beat them. The main thing for us is consistency, and putting together a run as the season comes to a close,” the Russian forward said.

 

The Express were aggressive at the trade deadline, moving two draft picks to the Rome Gladiators for strong centre Jason and depth defenceman Nagy AL.

 

“It’s nice to see the team’s management having faith in us,” Bogatyrev said about the trade.

Edited October 3, 2022 by Bojovnik