PHOTO: Bildbyrån/Youtube
The Colorado Avalanche and Detroit Red Wings have fought fierce battles over the years.
Not least during the 1996 semifinals in the Western Conference.
It was the match where Peter Forsberg stuffed the Russian fullback Vladimir Konstantinov – who then responded by giving back.
The real glory days may be over for the Colorado Avalanche and Detroit Red Wings – but things were different in the past. During the 1990s, both clubs were feared by many and when they both met it was not unusual for there to be tough fights.
Stone-hard Forsberg
And we perhaps especially remember the battles between our own Peter Forsberg and the Russian hill giant Vladimir Konstantinovespecially during the semifinals of the Western Conference in 1996. The season was only “Foppa’s” second NHL season in his career, but even then it was clear that he was not letting any fingers pass.
READ MORE: When Patrick Roy brought down the Rangers star with the neat monster tackle
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During the season, Peter Forsberg had taken out the big magic wand and showed off his brilliance, which had made him something of a target in the playoffs. But what opponents would soon learn was that “Foppa” was not someone to be taken for granted – just ask Konstantinov.
Konstantinov gave again
The Russian had the puck behind his own net. Then Forsberg took a gamble and let Konstantinov feel that he was alive when he offered him a real air ride.
READ MORE: Peter Forsberg’s brilliant backhand pass in the Stanley Cup
Forsberg and his Colorado went on to win the Stanley Cup that season, but a year later the teams met again. And this time it was time for Vladimir Konstantinov to give back.
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For once, Forsberg didn’t really have a handle on the situation, and when Konstantinov stepped up to him, it was too late when he pushed the Swede up towards the edge to the great joy of the crowd.
Watch the clips:
PHOTO: Youtube
PHOTO: Youtube