Last season, HV71 centre Ted Brithen's season was cut short by injuries. This season he's off to a fast start, and looks to have regained his old form. 

by Anders Borjesson

JONKOPING – HV71 are in good shape so far in the Champions Hockey League, having won their group, followed by Tuesday's 2-0 win in the first game of the Round of 32 against Lukko Rauma. The team has been strong both defensively and offensively, led by the line of Ted Brithen centring Martin Thornberg and Par Arlbrandt.

Last week we spoke to Thornberg, the Cramo Top Scorer of the whole CHL with now 9 points. He gave credit to his linemates for the success he is having, and in particular pointed out Brithen's return to form. 

“Brithen had problems with injuries last season,” Thornberg explained. “This year, he's really stepped up and played as well as we know he can do when he's on top. He had a really good season in 2014-15 and is on his way to that form again.”

In just his second season with HV71 and third full SHL season, Brithen had 30 points in 44 regular-season games in 2014-15, but had only 6 points in 24 games last season. This year, as Thornberg said, things are looking better. The 25-year-old has 3 points in his first five SHL games, as well as 6 points so far in five CHL games. 

All of the offence came early in Tuesday's game, with Brithen scoring the game's second – and last – goal less than six minutes in. He received a nice pass from Thornberg and scored on a nifty backhander. 

“We came out great and scored two quick goals and played the game pretty well I think,” Brithen said after the game.

What did you think about your team’s defensive play, with no goals allowed?

“I think we lost the puck too much in places, and that gave them the chance to counter-attack on us. In our zone we kept them to the outside and didn't allow them to shoot in dangerous positions, but we still have some work to do defensively in our game.”

Did you play it safe in the third period or did you try to get that third goal?

“Of course we went for it if we got the chance, but we wanted to make sure we didn't lose the puck too easily. Maybe we dumped the puck a little too often instead of taking it into the zone like you do when you’ve got momentum in the game.”

And your own game?

“I think I played a pretty good game, like the rest of the team. I tried to play simple and I got a chance and managed to get a goal.”

You had a rough last season with a lot of injuries, but this season has started well, with you playing at a different level. Thoughts?

“I've got a completely different rhythm this season. I’m playing with really good players and I think our playing style suits my game really well.”

You've played a lot with Thornberg and Arlbrandt so far this season, and that seems to be working well. 
 
“They are very skilled players, just look at their careers so far. I'm lucky to play with such talented players. We talk every day, every practice, about what we can improve in our game. I feel that we’ve got a real good chemistry and we all contribute to make this line work.”