In an action-packed encounter from the 18th round of the KHL 3x3 league, Metallurg secured a convincing 9-6 victory over Barys in what proved to be a goal-filled spectacle.
Metallurg dominated from the opening minutes, establishing a commanding 4-1 lead in the first period. Shmelev opened the scoring just 42 seconds into the game, assisted by Varfolomeev. Kharkin extended the advantage with a goal at 3:07, again with Shmelev providing the assist.
Barys briefly responded through Alexandrov at 5:25, with Daniyar Sn. credited with the assist. However, Metallurg quickly reasserted control as Kharkin notched his second goal just 17 seconds later at 5:42, with Polukarov assisting. Gonchar further extended Metallurg's lead at 6:16, benefiting from Varfolomeev's second assist of the period.
The teams traded goals more evenly in the second period, which ended 2-2, before another high-scoring final period that finished 3-3. The early advantage proved decisive for Metallurg as they maintained their lead throughout the contest.
According to Statbet, teams that score four or more goals in the opening period of KHL 3x3 games win approximately 78% of such matches, highlighting the importance of Metallurg's strong start in this encounter.
The victory strengthens Metallurg's position in the KHL 3x3 standings as the league continues through its 18th round of fixtures.
