Avto forces Game 7 after stunning OT win over Spartak in MHL semis
The MHL semifinal series between Avto and Spartak has reached a dramatic climax. After trailing 1–3 in the best-of-seven matchup, Avto forced a decisive Game 7 with a thrilling 4–3 overtime win in Game 6. The final showdown will take place in Moscow on May 10 to determine who advances to the Kharlamov Cup final against Loko. Avto faced elimination after dropping three straight games, including two on home ice. But the team fought back, starting with a late comeback in Game 5. A 2–1 overtime victory kept their playoff hopes alive and set the stage for Game 6.
The sixth game was delayed due to Spartak’s travel issues. Once underway, Avto took control early, leading 2–0 after two periods thanks to goals from Maxim Velikolov and Yury Mortsinkevich. Spartak, however, refused to go quietly. With time running out in regulation, Spartak scored twice in the final minute to force overtime. The momentum seemed to shift—until Oleg Baikov netted the winner for Avto, sealing a 4–3 victory and tying the series at 3–3.
The series now hinges on Game 7 in Moscow on May 10. The winner will earn a spot in the Kharlamov Cup final against Loko. Both teams enter the decider with everything on the line after a hard-fought, back-and-forth semifinal.
