Genève-Servette looked like they were unstoppable until they weren’t. The Swiss club opened the first period by scoring two goals in quick succession against Austrian side HC Innsbruck, but an inability to finish resulted in the visitors leaving Tiroler Wasserkraft Arena with zero points in a 5-2 decision.  On the opposing side, HC Košice didn’t have such a start but did experience a similar finish as they lost to their Game Day 1 opponents EHC Biel-Bienne by a 3-1 final.

Košice wouldn't go away quietly. A Gaetan Haas goal gave Biel-Bienne the first lead, but a powerplay equaliser courtesy of Joona Jääskeläinen, was three minutes away. The Slovakians were able to keep the game within striking distance despite being outshot and outplayed for most of the match. Jaroslav Janus's play was a big reason as the Slovakian netminder was spectacular in net, but their failure to finish on pucks jeopardised their chance of a victory. 

Forcing the play and keeping the puck on their stick should be a main priority. Košice only generated 15 shots on goal with a 7% shot efficiency. Great goaltending by Janus was instrumental in keeping the game close, but better results in the offensive zone could pay dividends. Likewise, their special teams were effective both a man-up and man-down, so maintaining this increases their chances of success.

The Swiss fell to a similar fate as their lack of finish proved to be an obstacle against Innsbruck. Their two first period goals aside, Genève were unable to make much happen in the way of offence even when they were getting pucks through. Special teams is another area that needs some tweaking - the visitors were awarded seven powerplays but failed to convert on one.

Now, going up against a club that was perfect on the PK and received decent goaltending, Genève will need to solve their scoring woes at even-strength and on the powerplay to have a chance at redeeming their opening day loss.