Alpe d'Huez v Serre Chevalier Ice Hockey Match
A bruising local derby ends in a thrilling 4-4 draw
It’s always crash, bang, wallop when you mix an ice hockey match with a dash of local rivalry – and this match was no exception.
The freezing temperatures didn’t deter the small crowd from attending what turned out to be a cracking game.
Alpe d’Huez took an early lead, but 2 quick-fire goals by Serre Chevalier gave them a deserved lead. On the stroke of the end of the first period Alpe d’Huez managed to level things up. The parity in scores was largely due to Alpe d’Huez keeper Cristobal Huet having an absolute blinder – pulling off a series of fine saves to keep his team in the contest.
The second period started in similar fashion to the first, with Serre Chevalier dominating possession, but a great breakaway goal by Alpe d’Huez gave them a surprise lead, however Serre Chevalier soon levelled things up and the period ended 3-3.
With it all too play for in the final period, Serre Chevalier came out all guns blazing and soon took a 4-3 lead. Staring defeat in the face, Alpe d’Huez pushed forward and managed to score to again restore parity at 4-4. Serre Chevalier managed as few more chances but the heroics of Huet in goal kept Alpe d’Huez in the game. A definite man of the match performance from the Alpe d’Huez keeper.
It was a great game and a good spectacle to take in and its free which is a bonus. So why not take in a game when you are here in resort and cheer the local boys in blue on. Just make sure you wrap up as it can be freezing sat in the small stand.
It's a good idea to pop into the EightBar for a quick drink in between periods to warm up, as you can see the players coming back out onto the ice and then swiftly nip out back into the stand.
All-in-all great fun and thoroughly recommended. Find more fixtures this season on our events calendar.
