ICE Hockey League LIVE: 357. Kärntner Derby! VSV - KAC

A thrilling match!

The 357th edition of the Kärntner Derby between EC VSV and EC-KAC takes place on Tuesday evening. With 25 wins, the Black & Whites are just behind the Red Jackets (38) in the head-to-head comparison in the ICEHL. The Villachers won the first duel of the season in Klagenfurt 4-1 at the end of September, while the Klagenfurters secured a narrow 3-2 away win at the beginning of November.

Both teams are in good shape before the derby. VSV won four of their last five games and thus fought their way back to the top 6. KAC scored points in three of their last four games, but slipped to eighth place due to the strong competition.

VSV more successful at home

In the current season, however, the Villachers have been more successful on home ice than their rivals. While VSV has won five of their eight home games so far, KAC has only been able to secure two wins in seven away games. With 15 points each, both teams are in a midfield position in the home and away tables.

VSV coach Rob Daum can rely on a full squad before the derby. KAC coach Petri Matikainen, on the other hand, has to do without Thomas Hundertpfund, who has not yet recovered from his wrist injury. The Klagenfurt team captain is expected to be out for another two weeks.

VSV under pressure

After the two recent defeats against Vienna and Salzburg and the weak performance on the ice, VSV is under increasing pressure before the derby. The Villachers have only won one of their last five games and have slipped to seventh place in the standings. KAC, on the other hand, has been in good shape for weeks and has won four of its last five games.

A win in the derby would be very important for both teams. VSV could close the gap to the top 6, while KAC could consolidate its place in the top 8. The game is expected to be a tight and intense affair.