After a bitter SHL final: Konstantin Komarek: “I want to play for Austria again”
Tears rolled down Konstantin Komarek’s cheeks. A few moments earlier, the 29-year-old from Vienna and Lulea suffered a bitter 3-0 defeat against Färjestads BK in the seventh final game. Even from a distance, the striker, who was out of action for a long time and was able to intervene again late in the decisive phase, is struggling to keep his composure.
“The whole city was euphoric like I’ve never experienced in my life. It hurt extremely that we couldn’t win the title for our fans. We were so close and I think we were even better Team in the seventh game. After that there was only emptiness”, says Komarek, describing his emotions.
In a short interview, the noble technician talks about the final, why Swedish ice hockey is in his blood and why he is not going to the national team this year:
What was the decisive factor in losing the last game of the season?
Konstantin Komarek: Hard to say. It was such a tight series, every single game. Anything can happen in a seventh final. We actually saw ourselves as a better team with better chances. A deflected shot into the Kreuzeck then became the championship-deciding goal. It was the little things that made the difference. We can’t blame ourselves, we left everything on the ice and weren’t afraid.
Why do you identify so well with Swedish ice hockey?
I went to Sweden early. I like the country and I think the league is a very, very good one. In view of the fact that the KHL will probably be separated from the world market, it could become the best league in Europe. Ice hockey is very important in the country. It’s fun to be able to play at such a high level. In Sweden the players have a special attitude towards the sport and they work very hard – that’s easy to see and a cornerstone. Almost everyone has the bite to get better. The competition in your own country is huge – it means that the players always train extra.
With your goals, you played a part in the fact that Austria managed to stay up in the league in 2018. This year the World Cup will take place without you. Why?
I also enjoyed going to the World Cup this year. But there are various reasons why this did not happen. I don’t want to say too much. In any case, it doesn’t fit this year, maybe next year. But I hope that I can play for Austria again in the future, because it’s always a great honor for me.