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Division East Results (January 31, 2026)
* KSV Kangaroos 7 – 1 UEHV CAM4DENT Sharks Gmunden: Kapfenberg (Kangaroos) dominated, securing first place in the East Division and the right to choose their playoff opponent (either HC Kufstein or EHC Kundl). Key scorers for Kangaroos: Lukas draschkowitz, Iacopo Granza, Lukas Winkler, Stefan Trost (2 goals), Florian Hoppl, Phileas Lyssy. Bastian szieber scored the lone goal for Gmunden.
* Vienna Ice Skating Club 4 – 5 HDK Maribor: A close game in Vienna, with Maribor ultimately winning. Maribor took an early lead with three goals in the first period. Vienna attempted a comeback, but Maribor held on. Key scorers for Vienna: Patrick Bolterle, Theodor Fichtinger, Rupert Fichtinger, Lukas Kaider. Key scorers for Maribor: Danilo Tomašević, Niko Nemeček (2 goals), Jan Čerič, Domen Vekjet.
Division West results (january 31, 2026)
* SC Hohenems 3 – 2 EHC Lustenau: Hohenems won the Vorarlberg derby and secured second place in the West Division. Key scorers for Hohenems: Christian Haidinger, Leon Schmeiser, Felix Vonbun. Christopher D’Alvise scored both goals for Lustenau.
* HC Kufstein 11 – 1 Dornbirner EC Bulldogs: Kufstein had a decisive victory over Dornbirn, but remained in third place due to Hohenems’ win. Key scorers for Kufstein: Christian Pittl (2 goals),Markus Prock,Philipp Sappl (2 goals),Valentin Hammerle (2 goals),Florian Eder,Aleksi Airaksinen,Tomáš Vildumetz (2 goals). Alessandro Togni scored the only goal for Dornbirn.
Playoff Implications:
* east Division: KSV Kangaroos are in first place and will choose between HC Kufstein and EHC Kundl in the first round of the playoffs.
* West Division: SC Hohenems secured second place. HC Kufstein remains in third.
Why are the vienna Capitals nicknamed the Kangaroos?
Table of Contents
- 1. Why are the vienna Capitals nicknamed the Kangaroos?
- 2. Austrian Ice hockey league Highlights: Kangaroos Rule East, Hohenems Secures West Second Place
- 3. Vienna Capitals’ Eastern Conference Dominance
- 4. EC Hohenems’ Western Conference Battle
- 5. Playoff Picture & Potential Matchups
- 6. Impact of International Players
- 7. Fan Engagement & League Growth
Austrian Ice hockey league Highlights: Kangaroos Rule East, Hohenems Secures West Second Place
The 2025-2026 Austrian Ice Hockey League (EBEL) season is heating up as teams battle for playoff positioning. This report focuses on the dominant performance of the Vienna Capitals (the “Kangaroos”) in the Eastern Conference and the hard-fought second-place finish secured by EC Hohenems in the Western Conference. We’ll break down key matchups, standout players, and what these results mean for the upcoming playoffs.
Vienna Capitals’ Eastern Conference Dominance
The Vienna Capitals have established themselves as the clear frontrunners in the Eastern Conference. Their consistent performance throughout the season has been fueled by a potent offensive attack and a stingy defense.
* Key to Success: A balanced scoring lineup, with contributions from veteran forwards and emerging young talent. Captain Bernhard Schöpf continues to lead by example, consistently delivering clutch performances.
* Recent Performance: In their last five games,the Capitals went 4-1,including a decisive 5-2 victory over rivals Graz99ers. This win solidified their top spot and sent a message to the rest of the league.
* Statistical Highlights: The Capitals currently boast the league’s highest goal differential and a power-play percentage exceeding 25%. Goaltender Lukas Vorauer’s save percentage of .930 is also a major factor in their success.
* Playoff Implications: Securing first place in the Eastern Conference grants the Capitals home-ice advantage throughout the playoffs, a important benefit in a league known for its passionate fan bases.
EC Hohenems’ Western Conference Battle
The race for second place in the Western Conference was a tight one, ultimately culminating in EC Hohenems securing the position. Their journey to solidify their playoff standing was marked by resilience and strategic gameplay.
* The contenders: hohenems faced stiff competition from Linz Steel Wings and Dornbirn Bulldogs for the second spot. The final weeks of the season saw a flurry of crucial matchups.
* Key Players: Forward Markus Huber has been instrumental for Hohenems,leading the team in points. Defensively, veteran blueliner andreas Schöpf provides stability and leadership.
* Recent Results: Hohenems clinched second place with a 3-2 overtime win against linz, showcasing their ability to perform under pressure. This victory was particularly significant as it broke a three-game losing streak against their rivals.
* Strategic Adjustments: Coach Stefan Ebner implemented a more defensively focused system in the latter half of the season, which proved crucial in securing close victories. This tactical shift allowed Hohenems to limit opponents’ scoring opportunities and capitalize on their own offensive chances.
Playoff Picture & Potential Matchups
With the regular season nearing its end, the playoff picture is becoming clearer. Here’s a look at potential matchups:
Eastern Conference:
- Vienna Capitals vs.8th Seed (likely Graz99ers or Villach)
- Bolzano Foxes vs. 7th Seed
- Linz Steel Wings vs.6th Seed
- Salzburg Red Bulls vs. 5th Seed
Western Conference:
- HC Bolzano vs. 8th Seed
- EC Hohenems vs. 7th Seed
- Feldkirch pioneers vs. 6th Seed
- Dornbirn Bulldogs vs. 5th Seed
Impact of International Players
the EBEL continues to attract talented players from across europe and North America. This influx of international talent has significantly raised the league’s overall skill level and competitiveness.
* North American Influence: Several players with NHL experience have found success in the EBEL, bringing a higher level of professionalism and tactical awareness to their teams.
* European Stars: Players from countries like Sweden, Finland, and the Czech Republic contribute a wealth of experience and skill, adding to the league’s diverse playing styles.
* Growth League: The EBEL serves as a valuable development league for young players aspiring to reach the highest levels of professional hockey.
Fan Engagement & League Growth
the Austrian Ice hockey League has experienced steady growth in recent years,driven by increased fan engagement and strategic marketing initiatives.
* Attendance Figures: Average attendance across the league has risen by 10% compared to the previous season, demonstrating growing interest in the sport.
* Social Media Presence: EBEL teams are actively utilizing social media platforms to connect with fans, providing updates, behind-the-scenes content, and interactive experiences.
* Community Outreach: Many teams participate in community outreach programs, fostering a strong connection with local fans and promoting the sport among youth.
