“It was a tough match,” started Jeřábek, “the opponent was very strong, which is expected given how well they have been playing in the SHL. We lost a promising 1-0 lead when they scored at the end of the first period. They also scored at the end of the second period, that’s something we struggled with on the night.”

Sparta headed out for the final period two goals down but determined to turn the game around. But a defensive mistake when both defenders overstayed their shift on the ice gave Rögle the perfect opportunity to up the pressure and add another goal.

“The last goal was bitter. Two defenders overstayed their shifts on the ice and were unable to hold off the opponent. In general we had periods of play that weren’t the best,” said Jeřábek critically.

On paper, a three-goal deficit looks bad, but hockey is a fast game and fortunes change quickly, “the Return Game in Sweden is a new game and we need to focus on that. Scoring three goals is manageable, so we can still turn this game around and go through” explained Jeřábek.

What hurt Josef Jandač’s team the most were goals right before buzzers, “late goals are hard. It gives them an advantage, that they score right before the end of the period. We need to be better in this area and play to the very end,” said Jeřábek.

Despite losing, there were some positives from Sparta’s game for Jeřábek who has scored two goals in five games in the CHL so far this season and was on the scoresheet on Tuesday: “I try to push high up the ice and find chances in front of the net," explained Jeřábek.