1,361 views
Frankfurt's freedom is eliminated In game two of the semi-final series against the favorites, Falken defender Corey Mapes announces a different approach ICE HOCKEY The distance was a problem. It may have been corona-compliant. But for the start of the DEL 2 semi-final series between the Heilbronn Falken and Frankfurt, the underdog's behavior was inappropriate. "We had too much distance," says Corey Mapes about the first ten minutes, the decisive ones in the 1:4 defeat on Thursday in the first duel in Frankfurt. The Lions used the space to score two quick goals, but the Falken were not as close that evening as would have been necessary for a surprise. "But from the second third onwards we were equal," says defender Mapes, who promises the Lions a hotter dance for the home game this Saturday (6:30 p.m.). "Game one belonged to Frankfurt. Now it's our turn." Beautiful backdrop The Falken are counting on the fans and are hoping for a similar atmosphere to the one against Dresden. "Especially in the second home game, there was a great crowd, a great atmosphere," says Corey Mapes. Advance sales have also started well, and the 2,000 mark could be broken this time. The more, the better. There are still tickets available, says Timo Ruf. "I would hope that everyone who has a little Falken heart will decide to come to the stadium," says the interim manager. They want to make it as difficult as possible for the promotion favorites. "Playing against them is very unpleasant," warned Löwen defender Marius Erk directly after the opening game. And the Falken, who are in the semifinals for the first time in 14 years, are not playing just for fun, Mapes makes clear. "We want to get through one round, take another step or two." Exactly, why not the big picture? Even as an underdog. "We like this role, we've already knocked out Dresden," says vice-captain Mapes. The 1:4 defeat on Thursday is already behind us. "We are mentally strong as a team and I think we can trip up Frankfurt." That means: shorten the gap on the ice and even the series.