In Kalmar, Sweden, Södertälje SK (SSK) defeated Kalmar HC 6-3 in the first quarterfinal of HockeyAllsvenskan. Andrew Vanderbeck scored three goals for SSK in his first game back in Kalmar since leaving the club. Kalmar took an early lead with a power-play goal by Carl-Johan Lerby, but SSK responded with three consecutive goals to lead 3-1 after the first period.
Vanderbeck scored his first goal to tie the game 1-1, followed by goals from William Wiå and Adam Hesselvall. In the second period, Vanderbeck scored again to make it 4-1. Kalmar reduced the deficit to 4-3 in the third period with goals from George Diaco and Gabriel Olsson, but Vanderbeck completed his hat trick and Teemu Väyrynen added another goal to secure the 6-3 victory.
Vanderbeck as a class player at this level
SSK now leads the series 1-0. The next match is scheduled for March 17. According to reports, SSK back Daniel Norbe praised Vanderbeck as a class player at this level, while Kalmar's Valdemar Johansson reportedly said the team allowed too many breakaways and needed to tighten up.