With Nam Hee-du's winning goal, HL Anyang clinched a thrilling victory after a long overtime battle and revealed prospects for its 9th consecutive title in the Asian League Ice Hockey.
Coached by Baek Ji-sun, HL Anyang defeated the Red Eagles Hokkaido 3-2 in the first game of the 2024-2025 Asian League Ice Hockey Final (best of five) on the 29th at the Nepia Ice Arena in Tomakomai City, Hokkaido, Japan, after a close match that went into the second overtime period. Defenseman Nam Hee-du became the hero of the day with the winning goal scored 1 minute and 22 seconds into the second overtime period, tying the game 2-2. Kang Yoon-seok assisted all three goals for HL Anyang, while goaltender Matt Dalton made 32 saves to pave the way for victory.
HL Anyang started with great momentum, scoring a quick goal by Lee Hyun-seung just 1 minute and 27 seconds into the game, but allowed an equalizer to Irikura Daiga at 18 minutes and 40 seconds of the first period. HL Anyang regained the lead with a clever shot by Kim Gun-woo at 4 minutes and 38 seconds of the second period. Kim Gun-woo, who penetrated the left side of the offensive zone, shot backhand after changing direction to sneak past the Red Eagles' goalie Narisa and Yuta.
HL Anyang maintained a narrow lead thanks to Matt Dalton's saves, but allowed another equalizing goal to Takahashi Seiji at 14 minutes and 44 seconds, leading to an unresolved outcome that went into overtime.
Unlike the regular league where a penalty shootout decides the winner if there is no outcome after a 5-minute overtime period, in the final, the overtime period is repeated for 20 minutes until a winning goal is scored.
HL Anyang aggressively pressed the Red Eagles, which noticeably slowed down in the overtime period, but the finishing touch was disappointing. They failed to capitalize on two power play opportunities and An Jin-hwi's crucial shot hit the goal post.
Nam Hee-du put an end to the battle that had lasted over 80 minutes with his goal at 1 minute and 22 seconds into the second overtime period. After receiving a pass from Lee Hyun-seung, Kang Yoon-seok sent a pass toward the left faceoff circle in the offensive zone, and as soon as Nam Hee-du received the puck, he boldly shot it into the goal net.
HL Anyang will play the second game of the 2024-2025 Asian League Ice Hockey Final at the same location at 3 p.m. on the 30th. The third game (April 3), fourth game (April 5), and fifth game (April 6) will be held at the HL Anyang Ice Rink.
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