Newcomers Olimpija Ljubljana are off to a slow start, with two losses behind them as they gear up to host TPS Turku after their first face-off ended with a 3:2 win for Turku.

In their first meeting, both teams saw the first period come and go, with neither team managing to get something going, but the second and third periods would be the game changer, with Ljubljana’s Jaka Sodja sweeping the first one in at 31:30.

Just seconds later, Turku scored the equalizer at the hands of Teemu Kivihalme and at 34:44, he came in with another beautiful shot, giving Turku a 2:1 lead. After Ljubljana’s Tadej Cimžar was called for hooking, Turku were able to capitalize on their advantage, as Mikael Pyyhtiä secured the game’s first powerplay goal, widening the gap for Ljubljana. 

Despite Aljoša Crnović’s goal at the 42:26 mark, Ljubljana would not be able to catch up and secure a win, resulting in a triumph for Turku. 

In the post-game interview, Ljubljana’s Head Coach Mitja Šivic had this to say about his team’s performance: “The effort was there obviously, we faced a really fast and hardworking team, but overall, we were only one shot away and I’m proud of how the guys battled and I think we’re only going to get better from game to game.”   

It’s not only Ljubjlana who are itching for a win, Turku is also fresh off a stunning 4:0 defeat against EV Zug.

Be sure to catch these teams battle it out for the second time!