Graz (still without Lukas Haudum, but with Rok Ticar back in the lineup) set the tone in terms of chances all game, but VSV were full of confidence and ice cold after eight straight wins. Bad luck for Graz: At 0:1 through Van Nes (29′), coach Harry Lange weakened his team with a failed video challenge, another two minute penalty! This did not matter. After Lindner made it 2-0 (44′), however, the defeat of the first 99ers became apparent after three recent victories. Paul Huber (53′) reduced the deficit, but it was too little for a Christmas present in the form of points this time from Styria’s point of view. Also because Villach goaltender Lamoureux mostly acted as a “wall” in goal with a total of 39 99ers shots.
While VSV celebrated their ninth straight win (and are now just four points behind Graz), the 99ers moved closer to the top six. Next chance for points: At home against Salzburg on St. Stephen’s Day.
