Chibisov at the double again for Magnitka

Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod 2:4 Metallurg Magnitogorsk (1-1, 0-0, 1-3)

Metallurg continued its recent revival with a spirited display to win at Torpedo. Since announcing the return of Mike Pelino last week, the Steelmen took Ak Bars all the way before producing come-from-behind victories at Neftekhimik and again here. The team’s problems are clearly not completely solved, but the addition of a respected new voice in the locker room seems to be making an impact.

Admittedly, the visitor made things hard for itself at the start. Two penalties in quick succession gave Torpedo a 5-on-3 advantage and although Igor Shvyryov returned safely to the game, Damir Zhafyarov scored towards the end of that extended power play. At the other end, Metallurg’s first power play of the game also brought a reward when Sergei Plotnikov tied the scores. Magnitka kept taking penalties, though, and allowed 21 shots on Juho Olkinuora’s net in a first period that left Torpedo wanting more.

The second period was goalless. Both the penalty tally and the shot count evened out and it started to feel like the next goal would go a long way towards deciding the outcome of the game. Six minutes into the final frame, Metallurg made the breakthrough with Andrei Chibisov, two-goal hero at Neftekhimik, putting the visitor in front. Artyom Zemchyonok extended the lead 10 minutes later and Metallurg was almost safe. There was still time for some late drama, though. Zhafyarov’s second of the night gave Torpedo hope before Chibisov found the empty net to seal Metallurg’s win and make it four goals in two games for him personally.