Tappara Tampere went through to the Champions Hockey League Quarter-Finals as they defeated the Växjö Lakers 6–4 on aggregate score. The second game on Tappara’s home ice in Tampere was a thriller from the get-go. Since the First Game ended 2–2, it was the Return Game that would decide who advanced in the tournament.
Every team is tough to beat here, especially the Swedish onesOtto Rauhala
"I think a tie was the best possible result from the first match. It’s the easiest way to prepare yourself for the next game, when it’s like that. It was bit like game seven of a playoff series – do or die," explained Tappara’s captain Otto Rauhala after the game.
The game on Tuesday evening ended in favour of Tappara thanks to a score of 4–2. The home side had some experience with Swedish teams from the Group Stage, but Växjö were a different kind of challenge.
"Every team is tough to beat here, especially the Swedish ones. Växjö are the reigning SHL champions, they played a bit different style than Skellefteå, but they were also tough players and played good hockey," he said, adding that "we are proud to have defeated them."
As the CHL is an international tournament, their are different styles of hockey to contend with among the teams. Tappara is best known in Finland for their united and competitive style to battle. Rauhala found something familiar in their opponent’s way of doing things on the ice.
"Växjö were different in that they played a more Finnish style of hockey with tight defence. They also trapped more and the slower attacks were in there."
Tappara will play against either the Rouen Dragons from France or Red Bull Salzburg from Austria in the Quarter-Finals.