Source: streethockeyfans.ch
Photos: Oberwill Rebells
The Swiss Nationalliga A playoffs kicked off last weekend, with the top eight teams competing in a series of best-of-three quarter-finals.
The regular season was once again dominated by the Oberwil Rebells and the Sierre Lions. Both teams showed consistency throughout the season, securing the top two spots and establishing themselves as playoff favourites.
Other playoff contenders include Horgenberg Hammers, Bulldozers Kernenried, SHC Grenchen-Limpachtal, SV Gals, SHC La Chaux-de-Fonds and SHC Belpa 1107. With the play-offs started just last week, it remains to be seen whether Oberwil Rebells and Sierre Lions can maintain their dominance, or one of the lower seeds can pull off an upset.
The quarterfinal pairings:
- Oberwil Rebells vs. SHC La Chaux-de-Fonds
- Sierre Lions vs. SHC Belpa 1107
- Horgenberg Hammers vs. SHC Grenchen-Limpachtal
- Bulldozers Kernenried vs. SV Gals
Oberwil Rebells vs. SHC La Chaux-de-Fonds
Reigning champions Oberwil Rebells dominated the regular season with just one loss. It was almost by design that their only defeat came in a penalty shootout against SHC La Chaux-de-Fonds last November. However, the Rebells responded emphatically in their recent encounter, securing a 15-2 victory.
Sierre Lions vs. SHC Belpa 1107
Sierre Lions have showcased offensive prowess, notably defeating SHC Belpa 1107 with scores of 20-2 and 23-2 during the regular season. Belpa’s limited roster contributed to these outcomes. While Belpa aims to present a more competitive lineup in the playoffs, Sierre remains the clear favorite in this matchup.
Horgenberg Hammers vs. SHC Grenchen-Limpachtal
This series is anticipated to be closely contested. In regular-season meetings, both teams secured away victories against each other. The Hammers have experienced inconsistent form post-winter break, while Grenchen-Limpachtal has also struggled with consistency. This sets the stage for a close and unpredictable series.
Bulldozers Kernenried vs. SV Gals
The two regular-season meetings between these two teams ended in favour of the visitors. Notably, SV Gals are hosting the Swiss Cup Final Four at the same time, which could have an impact on their playoff performance due to their packed schedule.
