Is there enough to improve before the play-off match with SCB?: The EVZ is not competitive with its shaky defense

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The EVZ was not only on the ropes, but was literally eliminated in the final phase of qualifying. The last 1:4 in Lausanne with only eleven shots on target was the low point. Nothing worked anymore. The fast game with a solid defense was once Zug’s strength.

With Lukas Bengtsson, Niklas Hansson (both Sd), Tobias Geisser and Livio Stadler, the top four defenders with the most ice time were recently missing. Even the EVZ does not remain unscathed. Center Sven Senteler had to help in the backfield and 17-year-old NHL draft hopeful Leon Muggli’s ice time increased to more than 20 minutes. Elia Riva hasn’t been above mediocrity all season. Dominik Schlumpf (after a puck hit the face) and Nico Gross remained the most experienced defensemen.

Hope, but no guarantees

The EVZ was no longer competitive with this line-up – and would certainly not be in the quarter-finals of the play-offs against SC Bern. The break of almost two weeks until the series opener on Sunday, March 17, suits the residents of Zug more than well after the miserable final phase. Dan Tangnes also nods.

The EVZ coach has the legitimate hope that he can count on his proven regulars again at the start of the play-offs. “However, I have no guarantees,” said the Norwegian. “I would still like to thank Senti (Sven Senteler, editor) for his efforts as a defender.” He will go on the attack against Bern.

Tangnes has regained his usual calm sovereignty, seasoned with a degree of mischief, which he had recently lost during the crisis. “It was the toughest dry spell in my time as coach here,” said the 45-year-old. “It was like wading through a swamp. It’s tiring, but you have to keep going to get out.”

He had somehow come to terms with the injury problems and certain performances. “Those weren’t my biggest concerns.” Would you rather? ‘Do you want to know what really irritated me? That we saw ourselves as victims of the situation and instead of taking control, we preferred to fall into self-pity.” This should end now and the perspective should be sharpened to the fact that “the best part of the season is still ahead of us”.

Source : Blick