The SHL "Regions Cup – Center" tournament took place at the Derzhavin Ice Arena from September 18 to 20. The host team, HC Derzhava, led by Dmitry Zobkov, finished the competition as bronze medalists.
Four teams participated in the tournament: Sparta (Ulyanovsk), Krylatye Barsy (Kazan), MGSU (Moscow), and Derzhava (Tambov).
The opening day of the Cup proved challenging for the Tambov team: Derzhava lost to the reigning SHL champion, Sparta Ulyanovsk. In their second match against Krylatye Barsy, the hosts put up a strong fight but fell short of a victory. However, in the tournament's final game, Derzhava decisively defeated the visiting team from the capital, MGSU, with a score of 9–6.
At the conclusion of the three-day event, Sparta (Ulyanovsk) took first place, Krylatye Barsy (Kazan) took second, and Derzhava (Tambov) took third. MGSU (Moscow) rounded out the standings.
The Tambov team's coaching staff highlighted the tournament's importance for their pre-season preparation.
"Another important SHL competition has taken place in Tambov. We appreciate the trust placed in us, and as hosts, we always strive to live up to it," noted HC Derzhava coach Vitaly Karasev. "While we didn't achieve the ultimate result we wanted, the Cup proved to be a highly productive experience for both the team and the coaching staff." The team’s roster has seen a turnover of nearly 50% this season; it was a great opportunity to see new players in action and evaluate new playing styles. There are no complaints regarding the team's commitment. Finishing third gives us a solid foundation for high-quality preparation for the regular season. The guys are taking a couple of days off now to recover, and then another training cycle awaits us. We will head into the season in good shape and with a great team atmosphere. We look forward to the support of our fans!
The SHL championship season begins for Derzhava in October.
