This report covers the key moments from the past game day in the Kontinental Hockey League.
Deja Vu for Traktor and Grigorenko`s Feats
For the second consecutive game, HC Traktor from Chelyabinsk managed to level the score in the dying minutes of regulation time. Remarkably, on both occasions, Mikhail Grigorenko emerged as the savior. However, despite his heroic efforts, the team once again secured only a single point. The match against Kunlun Red Star turned into a thrilling back-and-forth contest. Austin Wagner quickly responded to Grigory Dronov`s goal just 17 seconds later. Then, Ryan Spooner answered Pierrick Dubé`s accurate shot a minute and a half later. And after Grigorenko`s clutch goal, which forced overtime, Nick Merkley scored almost instantly in the extra period, leaving Traktor no chance for a second point.
Notable Events and Productive Streaks
The game day also featured several individual achievements. Head coach Benoît Groulx reached a significant milestone, coaching his 100th KHL game. Forward Joshua Leivo continued his impressive scoring streak, tallying points for the fifth consecutive game, recording 3 goals and 6 assists during this period. Furthermore, Austin Wagner made a bright debut in the League, marking his first appearance with two goals.
Avtomobilist`s Revenge
In a fierce rivalry, Neftekhimik and Avtomobilist met for the third time in the past two weeks. The previous encounters, held at the end of September, went in favor of Neftekhimik, who secured convincing victories both away (4:1) and at home (5:2). Yesterday`s match started promisingly for Neftekhimik, as they opened the scoring. However, Avtomobilist then seized the initiative, scoring five unanswered goals, to which their opponents could only respond with one, thus clinching their long-awaited revenge.
Neville Woodall