Champions Hockey League debutantes KooKoo Kouvola and Herning Blue Fox put on a match that culminated in the Finns skating away with a 5-2 win. Meanwhile, Frölunda Gothenburg were their familiar selves as they beat SaiPa Lappeenranta 6-1 to earn their first points of the competition.

Kouvola had their legs going early. The Finns found the net three times - one of which came on the powerplay - before the Danes found a response, and even then, were able to secure their final two tallies before Herning were able to register their second tuck of the night. Despite being outshot 34-28, Kouvola did what the Danes couldn't do - convert on their chances. As they prepare to face off against the likes of Frölunda, the Finns will need to carry this same mentality into this match-up: create opportunities early and capitalise. 

The Swedes were part and parcel of what we've come to expect from the five-time Champions Hockey League Champions. They controlled the pace of play from start to finish, securing three goals in the first, two in the second, and one in the third. But it wasn't only their offence that spoke volumes; their defensive awareness and ability to shut down anything SaiPa tried to manufacture was also impressive. Moving forward, the strategy for the club is simple - stick to the proven process.