Braehead Clan netminder Michal Zajkowski was frustrated to lose the club’s opening Elite Challenge Cup game against Fife Flyers.

The Swede was beaten by Carlo Finucci’s winner as the Flyers took the points with a 4-3 overtime victory.

It was a tough game to lose – I think we had a lot of the puck and a lot of shots, but we didn’t score in the second period,” said Zajkowski.

“I was trying to do my best in that period as I didn’t have much to do and was just watching the guys, trying to help out.

“It’s pretty tough, especially in the beginning of the season and I really tried to keep my focus in helping the team when the chances were coming, but I was disappointed we lost the game.”

Zajkowski admitted there were times when his concentration levels were tested after enduring long spells of not doing a lot earlier in the game, but he enjoyed the new three-on-three overtime format despite being on the losing side.

“There were a lot of chances in the three-on-three powerplay as the play went back and forward so it was good for the fans,” he added.

“I don’t know if it’s good for goalies, but it’s a lot of fun when there’s breakaways and stuff.”

(Image permission: Al Goold Photo)