Kölner Haie Extend Win Streak to Five, Game Overshadowed by Scary Injury – Breaking News
Cologne, Germany – The Kölner Haie are rolling, extending their winning streak to five games with a hard-fought 5-2 victory over the Pinguins Bremerhaven on Sunday evening. However, the DEL (Deutsche Eishockey Liga) match was dramatically interrupted and overshadowed by a frightening on-ice incident involving Bremerhaven forward Christian Wejse. This breaking news story highlights both the thrilling action of professional hockey and the inherent risks faced by athletes.
Haie Keep Pace in DEL Standings
The win keeps the Kölner Haie firmly in contention for the top spot in the DEL, now just three points behind league leaders Adler Mannheim. Forward Maxi Kammerer emphasized the team’s current form after the game, telling MagentaSport, “We are playing extremely well as a team right now. We aren’t taking many penalties, our power play is working, and we have a very good goalie. Things are going our way.”
Fast Start and a Physical Game
The Haie came out firing, nearly scoring within the first minute thanks to Dominik Bokk. Goaltender Janne Juvonen proved crucial early on, confidently stopping several Bremerhaven attacks. Nate Schnarr opened the scoring for Cologne at the 7-minute mark, giving the Haie a 1-0 lead after the first period. Maxi Kammerer then doubled the advantage in the 25th minute, showcasing a beautiful team play.
Bremerhaven responded quickly with two goals in just over a minute from Miha Verlic and Matthew Abt, tying the game 2-2. The momentum swung back and forth, with both teams creating scoring chances before a terrifying incident brought the game to a halt.
On-Ice Emergency: Wejse Suffers Injury
During a scramble in front of the net, Bremerhaven’s Christian Wejse was struck in the ear by a skate blade – an unfortunately common, yet incredibly dangerous, occurrence in hockey where helmets don’t fully protect all areas. The impact caused significant bleeding, prompting immediate medical attention. Players from both teams and the referees quickly formed a barrier to shield Wejse from television cameras, demonstrating a remarkable display of sportsmanship and concern.
Wejse was able to leave the ice with assistance, leaving a substantial bloodstain behind. The second period was prematurely ended after only eleven minutes, and the third period was extended to 29 minutes to compensate. Reports from MagentaSport indicated that Wejse was transported to a hospital for further evaluation but was, thankfully, in stable condition. Bremerhaven coach Alexander Sulzer confirmed post-game that Wejse was receiving treatment and was “okay, as far as I know.”
Haie Seal the Victory in Extended Play
Despite the unsettling pause, the Kölner Haie regained their composure and capitalized on a power play opportunity, although initially disallowed due to a high-sticking call on Louis-Marc Aubry. Shortly after, Bokk scored a well-deserved goal, putting the Haie ahead 3-2. Valtteri Kemiläinen and Ryan MacInnis added further goals in the extended third period, securing a 5-2 victory for Cologne.
The Importance of Player Safety in Hockey
This incident underscores the ongoing debate surrounding player safety in hockey. While the sport is known for its physicality and speed, the risk of serious injury is ever-present. The quick response of medical personnel and the respectful actions of the players and officials are a testament to the protocols in place, but the event inevitably raises questions about potential improvements to protective gear and rules. The DEL, like other professional hockey leagues, continually reviews safety measures to minimize these risks. Understanding the rules of the game, including penalties like the stockschlag that led to an early powerplay, is crucial for both players and fans.
The Kölner Haie will continue their road trip with a match against EHC Red Bull München on Wednesday, December 10th, followed by a home game against Adler Mannheim on Sunday, December 14th. Stay tuned to archyde.com for the latest updates and analysis from the DEL season.
