Win, loss, win, loss – ever since those two convincing victories at the start of the season, the EVZ have been consistently alternating between wins and losses. Following their hard-fought 3–1 win in Kloten, the team are hoping to finally break this run on Saturday in Ajoie. It is also the final game of their long away tour, before their long-awaited return to the OYM Hall against Lausanne next Friday.

One encouraging development following the first month of this still-young season is undoubtedly the integration of the young players. Several graduates from the club’s own Hockey Academy are getting plenty of ice time and taking on responsibility. Nik Petrovic deserves a special mention, having scored his first National League goal in the 5–2 win at Rapperswil. “I was just really proud and happy at that moment. I’ve been with EVZ for five years and I’m absolutely delighted that I was able to score my first National League goal for this club,” says the 20-year-old forward.

Since the start of the season, the Slovenian international has been putting in consistent performances and has become an indispensable part of the team. Against Kloten, he played in the second line alongside Vinzenz Rohrer and Gregory Hofmann, picking up his third assist of the season. When Petrovic joined the club in Central Switzerland five years ago, such a role in the first team was, understandably, still a long way off. However, the burly forward’s rise to prominence did not come out of the blue. Both in the U-17 Elite and the U-21 Elite, Petrovic demonstrated his goal-scoring instinct and was consistently among the team’s top scorers. The transition to senior level also posed no problems whatsoever for the universally popular basketball fan. In each of the last two seasons, he was loaned to EHC Chur on a B licence, where he racked up 22 points in 25 matches.

In addition to his appearances in the Swiss League, he also made his first appearances for EVZ’s first team last season. As part of the Champions Hockey League, Petrovic, who lives in Cham, got his first taste of professional ice hockey. All this experience is now helping him to settle in so well within Lauri Marjamäki’s squad. Meanwhile, Petrovic isn’t worrying too much about his role. “I enjoy playing ice hockey and just want to give my best for the team. I’ll do whatever the team needs me to do. At the end of the day, the most important thing is to find a way to win matches.”

Petrovic emphasises the team spirit. Despite the unusual start to the season, with nothing but away games, the atmosphere is excellent. “We’re growing closer and closer as a team and getting better with every game. I’m really proud to be part of this team.” Off the ice, too, the team does a lot together, which is particularly beneficial on the long journeys north.

HC Ajoie have proved to be a tough opponent so far this season. After twelve matches, the Jura side have 16 points. Recently, much like EVZ, they have been alternating between wins and defeats. Their 5–4 victory after extra time against the SCL Tigers last Saturday was particularly impressive. After falling 0–3 behind, Ajoie fought their way back and ultimately secured the bonus point. On Wednesday, however, the Jura-based side suffered a 3–6 defeat in Lausanne.

Particular attention should be paid to the three Finns: Kristian Tanus, Anttoni Honka and Julius Nättinen. All three feature in the top six of the league’s scoring charts. Tanus even tops the table with 17 points, whilst defender Honka and forward Nättinen have each racked up twelve points. Honka’s seven goals, in particular, are remarkable for a defender.

Before EVZ visit the Raiffeisen Arena on Saturday, Ajoie have an away match in Biel on Friday. Ville Peltonen’s team will therefore play three matches in the space of four days.