Latvian Hockey: Playoff Updates – Liepāja & Zemgale/LBTU

The Zemgale/LBTU hockey team has forced a seventh and decisive game in their Optibet Hockey League playoff series against Liepāja, securing a 4-2 victory in Sunday’s fourth game, as reported by Sportacentrs.com and Delfi. The series is now tied 2-2.

The game, played on March 29th in Liepāja, saw Zemgale/LBTU demonstrate resilience to level the series. According to ReKurZeme.lv, Liepāja now faces elimination.

Zemgale/LBTU’s win came after a hard-fought contest. Sportazinas.com highlighted that Andersons and Vutkevičs were key contributors, frustrating their former team. The article noted that Liepāja is now just one step away from being eliminated from the playoffs.

The fifth game of the series is scheduled for March 31st at 7:00 PM in Jelgava’s Ice Hall, as detailed by ReKurZeme.lv. The winner of this game will advance to the final.

The intensity of the series has also sparked discussion about officiating. Inbox.lv reported on comments from Masaļskis regarding perceived inconsistencies, stating that the approach taken wasn’t in line with the style of head coach Artis Ābols, who would not suggest targeting a player for removal from the game.

Previous Encounters and Playoff Context

Archysport.com reported on a recent clash between Jelgava “Zemgale”/LBTU and “Liepaja Hockey Team” earlier in the season, where Zemgale/LBTU secured a 3-2 victory. The article emphasized the back-and-forth nature of playoff hockey and the importance of resilience and execution under pressure.

Last season, Mogo/RSU defeated Zemgale/LBTU in the final series, according to Archysport.com. This year, Zemgale/LBTU is looking to avenge that loss and reach the championship.

League Standings and Recent Results

Eurohockey.com reported on March 13, 2026, that Mogo became the regular season champions once again, defeating Liepāja 4-2. This result highlights the competitive nature of the Latvian League.

Sofascore.com confirms that HK Liepaja and HK Zemgale/Llu played on March 27, 2026, at 4:30 PM UTC as part of the Latvian Hockey League. Details of that match were not immediately available, but it serves as further context for the current playoff series.

Zemgale/LBTU Roster Highlights

Flashscore.com provides a detailed roster for Zemgale, including player ages, positions and statistics. Key players include forwards Rihards Marenis (32 years old, 25 goals, 34 assists, 59 points) and Patriks Zabusovs (24 years old, 22 goals, 27 assists, 49 points). Defensively, Harijs Brants (23 years old) has contributed with 7 goals and 14 assists.

Goalkeepers Aksels Ozols (21 years old) and Patriks Plumins (18 years old) are listed on the roster, though their statistics from the current season are not fully detailed in the provided information.

The team is coached by Artis Abols, aged 53.

The upcoming game in Jelgava will be crucial for both teams as they battle for a place in the Optibet Hockey League final. Zemgale/LBTU will aim to capitalize on their recent momentum and secure the series win on home ice, while Liepāja will be looking to force an eighth game and keep their championship hopes alive.