Vålerenga – Storhamar

Vålerenga and Storhamar meet for the fourth time this season, and all the matches so far have been close. Two have gone to overtime, while the last one was decided by one goal after 60 minutes. That says a lot about how even this rivalry matchup is, and how small the margins are when the teams meet.

Vålerenga comes into the match with two straight one-goal losses, first against Storhamar and then Frisk Asker. The common denominator has been a lack of efficiency in crucial moments. Defensively, the structure has been largely intact, but the team has struggled to keep the pressure up throughout the match. At home at Jordal, Vålerenga will probably go out more aggressively, with a higher forecheck and a greater willingness to take risks offensively. This could give more chances, but also open up space at the back.

Storhamar last lost at home to Narvik, who are in 5th place and have been very strong this season. Nevertheless, the loss will sharpen the focus of the Hamar team. Storhamar is the league's highest scoring team and consistently creates many goal chances, even in matches where they do not dominate in terms of play. They have width in attack, several ranks that can produce goals and full-backs that contribute offensively.

Looking at head-to-head matches, Storhamar has scored consistently against Vålerenga, even in even games. When Vålerenga has to chase a match at home and lift its game, the likelihood of Storhamar getting transition opportunities and pressure in the offensive zone increases.

Everything is set for another close match, but also for Storhamar to find the net again. I therefore recommend the following bets:

Ice hockey at 18:30: Vålerenga – Storhamar: Storhamar over 2.5 goals (1.77)