The battle for the top spot between Ilves and KuPS started at the command of the hosts.
Otto Tiitinen, who was left with little responsibility this season, was replaced on the field in the 27th minute. Stock photo. Mika Kylmäniemi / AOP
The stakes of the cool Thursday evening were visible when more than 5,000 spectators arrived at the Tammela stadium.
Before the match, the situation in the Veikkausliiga standings was exciting, when the second-placed Ilves went for their fourth win of the season against KuPS. The top spot was held by KuPS with a difference of one point.
The top game started with the hosts in complete control, but breaking into the top spots was difficult. KuPS defended their box well in the opening period.
At the 20th minute we saw a scary situation when Ilves Jesse Kilon and KuPS Jaakko Oksanen heads collided with force. Both fell to the surface of the field from the shock.
After the maintenance, both were able to continue for a while, but a few minutes later Kilo sat down on the grass and asked for a change. The farm was replaced by a 17-year-old Otto Tiitinen.
KuPS was able to surprise in the extra time of the first period, when Oksanen sent after his possession Mohamed Toure stand up quickly. However, Toure’s finishing attempt went wide of the back post.
The match of the first 45 minutes went into the break from a 0–0 situation.
The article will be updated.