HC Sparta Praha beat HC Škoda Plzeň 2-0, handing the hosts their first home defeat of the season. Plzeň appeared to score after just 16 seconds, but Sparta’s coach’s challenge led to the goal being disallowed after a lengthy video review. A second Plzeň goal, scored by Michal Teplý in the second period, was also ruled out because he had put the puck in with his skate.
Plzeň forward Adam Měchura said the first disallowed goal did not have a major effect on the game, though the long wait was difficult for players who had not yet taken to the ice. He also identified the hosts’ power play as a key problem. “It is inexcusable when we fail to convert so many power plays,” he said, adding that Plzeň needed greater accuracy and more shots to create rebound chances.
Měchura said the teams had been discussing their power play for a long time, noting that a goal with the man advantage could have changed the result. He also suggested that some emotion from the teams’ spring quarter-final series may have carried into the game, but said he personally had no issues with Sparta’s players.