BEIJING, March 15 (Xinhua) -- Beijing defeated Shenzhen 6-1 here on Saturday in the final of the 2024-2025 Chinese Men's Ice Hockey League, which was organized by the Chinese Ice Hockey Association.

"This is a historic win," said Beijing captain Zhang Jiaqi. "Winning the first-ever league title means a lot to us. We hope more teams will join the league in the future, which motivates us to keep playing."

Beijing set the tone early with an aggressive display in the first period, with Hou Yuyang seized on an opportunity in front of the net to open the scoring. Ilya Seregin of Russia extended Beijing's lead with a goal in the second period.

Beijing dominated the final period, as Dmitri Lokhanin, Zheng Mingju and Jiang Sixiong each found the net, stretching the advantage to 5-0. Shenzhen managed to pull one back, but in the closing minute, Zheng struck again, sealing a 6-1 victory for Beijing.

Beijing's goalkeeper Sun Zehao made 23 saves in the final and earned the Best Goalkeeper award. "I just can't stop smiling," the 29-year-old veteran joked. "We've faced Shenzhen many times this season, and every game was a tough battle. This championship will be an unforgettable memory for me."

Shenzhen finished second in the inaugural four-team league.

Earlier on Saturday, Liaoning finished third with a 4-3 victory over Anhui in the playoff. Enditem