If HC La Chaux-de-Fonds bowed down heavily in Porrentruy in the first act of the quarterfinals against HC Ajoie (6-2), the result is probably a little too severe. “The start of the match unfortunately weighed on us, regrets Loïc Burkhalter, head coach and sports director of HC La Chaux-de-Fonds. There were already 2-0 in favor of HCA after three minutes (note: 3’12) due to a few individual errors that cost us dearly. We immediately took a timeout, but the damage was done. The positive however is that the team was able to react afterwards and that they showed good things despite the defeat. “
Nothing to already lose morale for the HCC after this initial defeat. “In play-off, we are happy or disappointed for three hours after a victory or a defeat. But then we have to turn the page, ”recalls Loïc Burkhalter. The former striker of National League, champion with Davos in 2007, knows what he is talking about. “You have to go for it and not ask yourself too many questions. In the end, you have to win four games, that’s all, “he said.
Waiting for the Del Curto effect
Do not panic, therefore, in the camp chaux-de-fonnier before this second duel which could give a first indication as to the outcome of this series. “We watched on the video what didn’t work well in the first act,” said Burkhalter, who does not anticipate any major changes in the lineup before this second game, especially since two important strikers, Adam Hasani and Ludovic Voirol, are still in the infirmary.
Only certainty: the Chaux-de-Fonnier will still keep a very attentive eye on the magic duo Jonathan Hazen (a goal) and Philipp-Michaël Devos (a goal, an assist). The radius of action of the two Quebecers, during the first act, was considerably reduced and the two aces of the HCA were even entitled to “preferential treatment” on the part of the gamblers.
What about Arno Del Curto? The legendary coach of six national titles with HC Davos will still be on the bench alongside Burkhalter on Friday night for Act II. The former druid of the Grison club undoubtedly still knows some tricks allowing to reverse the course of a series in play-off.
Cyrill Pasche
Created: 02/21.2020, 2:32 p.m.
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