The traditional ice hockey club Düsseldorfer eG is facing a sporty disaster: the descent from the German ice hockey league (DEL) is getting closer. After a season full of setbacks, missed opportunities and lack of success, the way into the DEL2 seems to be hardly to be averted. A look at the causes of the crash shows why the DEG is deep in the crisis.
Sporty misery: neither consistency nor class
One main reason for the desolate situation of Düsseldorfer eG is the lack of consistency on the ice. At the beginning of the season, the team showed weaknesses on the defensive, conceded too many goals and revealed difficulties in building the game. The offensive also remained behind the expectations: Despite the well -known new additions, the DEG did not succeed in developing the necessary punch.
Change of coaches and tactical changes did not bring the hoped -for turn. Again and again important games were narrowly lost, and the competition in the table cellar was more constant. While other teams increased in the crucial phase of the season, the DEG remained trapped in the crisis.
Financial and structural problems
In addition to the sporting misery, economic difficulties also burden the association. The DEG had already struggled with financial challenges in recent years. In the DEL, however, it is essential to invest in players and structures with a competitive budget in order to be successful in the long term. The austerity course and the limited funds compared to the competition were clearly noticeable this season at the latest.
The mood tilts: fans in shock state
The loyal supporters of the DEG have experienced many ups and downs in the past decades. But the impending descent hits the fan base particularly hard. The mood in the hall is increasingly shaped by frustration and disappointment. Despite passionate support from the ranks, the team has so far not been able to show the hoped -for defiance.
Is there still a way out?
In theory, there is still a minimal chance to avert the impending walking into the DEL2. But it would need an almost unrealistic series of victories and at the same time an break in the direct competition. Realistically speaking, the DEG must deal with the thought of the second class – and prepare for a return to the DEL at an early stage.
A descent would undoubtedly be a historical low for the club, but not necessarily the end of the traditional DEG. With a solid sporty and economic strategy, a restart could be achieved. But first of all, those responsible have to deal with why it could go so far.
The next few weeks will show whether the DEG will still create a miracle – or whether a new era in the DEL2 starts.
(Tagstotranslate) descent