The return of Andrei Svetlakov and Charles Robinson provided Traktor with a stronger forward lineup, easing concerns about line combinations during the game. Although there were still frequent adjustments, overall lineup issues were reduced.
Traktor once again focused on the physical aspect of the game. While not as intense as in the third match, this approach continued. However, it proved ineffective again. Lokomotiv is unafraid of such pressure and is in no way weaker; arguably, the Yaroslavl team was even faster.
Furthermore, Traktor`s power play struggles are completely baffling. It`s understandable that there won`t be many penalties in a final – maybe one or two per game – but they must be capitalized on, as other opportunities will be scarce. Traktor has only managed six goals in four games so far, which is insufficient. Lokomotiv`s offense is more productive. Chelyabinsk needs to find a solution, as what worked perfectly before is now completely failing. We well remember how Alexander Kadeikin used to position himself at the net front and score numerous goals from there. Currently, Kadeikin isn`t scoring from the crease – but the problem isn`t him; the puck simply isn`t reaching the net front.
How did Traktor concede goals? The first one involved the puck bouncing on Maxim Shabanov, who couldn`t control it. Telegin went for a hit but was beaten, and a goal followed. Then, during a faceoff in their own zone, Yegor Popov, in my opinion, didn`t track Ilya Nikolaev, and Nikolaev scored from a sharp angle. After that, Lokomotiv scored into an empty net, resulting in a 3-1 series lead. Lokomotiv is just one win away and is heading home.
What else hasn`t worked for Traktor? Shabanov, who constantly created chances, isn`t doing so now. For some reason, he`s struggling in this series, with the exception of the first game. Is this a problem? Yes, it is. Almost the best players for Chelyabinsk in the recent home games seemed to be Rykov and Zharkov.
Traktor, who played exceptionally well at home throughout the playoffs, lost twice – something that hadn`t happened in a long time. Overall, Chelyabinsk needs to somehow shake things up, as Lokomotiv holds both a mental and physical advantage. Traktor tried to unsettle Lokomotiv – it didn`t work; the Yaroslavl team didn`t yield.
Traktor should revisit the good moments from this season, recall the first game of the series, and take the best from there. In that game, Traktor controlled the puck and had the advantage. They need to approach the next game understanding that it shouldn`t be their last of the season, but this realization should be motivating, not प्रेशरing. They need to play with enjoyment, in a good mood, simply showcasing their own hockey. They should try to detach themselves from the fact that this is the Gagarin Cup Final and the team is on the brink. Traktor knows how to play beautifully – and it`s time to display that beauty.
Gareth Tenby