Lokomotiv stands just one win away from lifting the Gagarin Cup after grinding out a solid 4-1 victory in game five on home ice. The boys from Yaroslavl controlled the tempo from the first whistle and never really looked back, only conceding late when Alexander Khmelevski found the net with barely ninety seconds left. Throughout the series the pattern has stayed the same, the side that scores first usually wraps up the points and the losers have managed just one reply at best. With the score now sitting at 3-2 in the series, everything moves to Kazan for game six where Ak Bars will be desperate to force a decider back in Yaroslavl.
Team Form
Over the last few weeks Lokomotiv have shown real steel, especially after that dramatic overtime escape against Avangard in the previous round. They kept most of last season’s championship squad together and the new coach has slotted in without fuss, giving them the edge in experience when it matters most. Ak Bars on the other hand have twice come from behind in this series already, proving they know how to respond under pressure and win at home in the playoffs.
- Lokomotiv won four of their last five road games in the postseason
- Ak Bars scored first in only one of the previous five matches
- Both teams average under three goals per game when playing away
- Lokomotiv kept their defensive structure intact even after long flights
Tactical Analysis
The visitors will likely stick to the same tight checking game that has worked so well, using quick transitions and strong forecheck to deny Ak Bars any clean entries. Expect plenty of blocked shots and physical battles along the boards as both sides try to wear each other down before the final whistle. If Lokomotiv can grab the opening goal again, the home side may be forced to open up and that could create chances on the counter for the Russian champions.
Betting Proposal
Given how well Lokomotiv have handled themselves on the road and the fact they still hold the series lead, taking them with a zero handicap looks the smartest play. They are unlikely to lose in Kazan and could even nick it on the break. Fora 2 (0) at odds of 2.10 offers good value for a side that has already shown it can win ugly when needed.
With the title within touching distance the visitors will not want to give anything away, so a low scoring tightly contested battle seems on the cards once more. Fans in Nigeria watching the stream will enjoy the battle of wills as both clubs fight for every inch of ice in what could be the final push of the season.
