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Lions Frankfurt Fall to Ingolstadt in 6-3 Defeat, Eyeing Future Reinforcements
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The Löwen Frankfurt suffered a 6-3 loss to ERC Ingolstadt on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, despite a competitive showing and recent positive momentum.The defeat, while disappointing, comes as the team navigates personnel challenges and looks ahead to key additions for the upcoming season.
Ingolstadt Overpowers Frankfurt in Tuesday Matchup
The frankfurt guests were ultimately bested by a score of 6-3, a result that left goalkeeper Dustin Tokarski particularly frustrated. According to reports, the loss unfolded as Ingolstadt repeatedly took the lead, with Frankfurt consistently responding, but ultimately falling short. Daniel Pietta led the scoring for ERC Ingolstadt with two goals (11th and 58th minutes), while Alex Breton (16th), Sam Ruopp (26th), austin Keating (38th), and Daniel Schmölz (43rd) also found the back of the net.
For the Lions, Cameron Brace scored a power-play goal to tie the game at 1-1 (14th minute), and new signing Eric Uba brought the score to 2-2 (20th minute). Deputy captain Daniel Pfaffengut managed to narrow the gap to 3-4 (40th minute), but Frankfurt could not complete the comeback.
Defensive Lapses and Offensive Opportunities
“We allowed too much in our defensive zone, Ingolstadt is extremely dangerous,” a Lions player shared with Magenta-Sport, acknowledging the opponent’s strength. Despite the defensive struggles, the team demonstrated offensive potential. “On the other hand, we created a lot offensively,” the same player noted. “I think we could have taken the lead in the second third. Unfortunately that didn’t work. We had three or four hundred percent, if we put them in, things would turn out differently hear.”
The team, currently positioned as the penultimate in the league table, has shown betterment in recent weeks, but this loss represents a setback following a previous 2-3 defeat against Schwenningen after a ten-point run in four games.
Goaltending Situation and Roster Adjustments
The defeat was particularly challenging for Tokarski, his fourth loss in as many appearances with Frankfurt. His signing was crucial given the indefinite absence of Cody Brenner due to injury. The team’s roster management has been complicated by regulations limiting the number of players without German passes allowed on the ice. This led to Tokarski spending time on the sidelines while Mirko Pantkowski demonstrated strong performance.
The return of the Kose twins, Fabio and Timo, from the german U20 World Cup has further altered the team’s dynamics. Timo Kose saw limited ice time upon his return, while fabio Kose was granted a few days of rest after a demanding season. Both players are expected to be available for Friday’s derby against Adler Mannheim.
Future Outlook: Incoming Talent and Derby Clash
Looking ahead, the Lions are actively planning for the future. Reports indicate that 21-year-old forward Matej Leden, recently a standout performer for Eisbären Berlin against Frankfurt, will join the team next season, filling a key U-23 roster position. Additionally, there is speculation about the potential arrival of 20-year-old goalkeeper Nico Pertuch from Ingolstadt in the summer.
Before these reinforcements arrive, the Lions face a crucial home derby against Adler Mannheim on Friday evening
