Dmowski Double Fires Slovan Back Level as Bratislava End Nine-Game Home Drought Against Kosice

{{homeTeam}} fought back from a tied game to beat {{awayTeam}} 3-2 in Game 2 of the Tipsport Liga semifinal play-off at TIPOS aréna Bratislava on {{matchDate}}, levelling the best-of-seven series at 1-1 after {{awayTeam}} had taken the lead with an overtime win in the opener the previous day.

First Period — Slovan Strike Early

Ryan Dmowski gave the home side a dream start in the 5th minute, converting a sharp passage of play built by Turner Elson and Ondrej Turan. Slovan rode that lead despite penalty trouble — Acolatse was penalised for cross-checking one minute later, followed by Zelenak for tripping in the 13th — but stout defence ensured the 1-0 lead survived to the first intermission.

Second Period — Kohut Levels, Dmowski Strikes on the Power Play

Kosice wasted little time finding an equaliser in the second period: David Kohut restored parity in the 7th minute on a fine finish from setups by Deyl and Sedivy. The deadlock held until a critical moment arrived late in the period. Kosice were caught with too many men on the ice in the 19th minute, and Slovan pounced immediately — Dmowski converted the power play, fed by Pecararo and O'Connor, to send the teams to the dressing room with the hosts leading 2-1. The power-play goal was scored with just seconds remaining in the period and changed the complexion of the match entirely.

Third Period — Lamper Equalises, Bakos Has the Final Word

Kosice responded with immediate pressure in the third period. Patrik Lamper brought his side level in the 8th minute of the final frame, finishing neatly off assists from Havrila and Rogon to make it 2-2. With the game delicately balanced, Martin Bakos produced the winning moment in the 17th minute. Samuel Takac's shot deflected off a Kosice defender and Bakos was on hand to finish for 3-2, sparking scenes of relief and celebration at the packed TIPOS aréna.

What It Means

The result draws the semifinal level at 1-1, with the series now heading east to Kosice for Games 3 and 4. The psychological significance is considerable — Slovan broke a nine-game home winless run against their arch-rivals, with their previous Bratislava victory over Kosice dating back to January 2023. Kosice, who led the series after an overtime triumph in Game 1, must now protect home advantage to stay in control of the tie. With both teams having shown the ability to win and come from behind, the rivalry promises a compelling continuation at Steel Arena in the days ahead.