Tampere Ilves’ downward spiral continued in Friday’s league round.
Ilves piloted by Antti Pennanen lost again. PDO
Tampere Ilves’ weak streak continued when Pelicans robbed Nokia Arena of three points in Friday’s puck round. The match ended 3–5.
The weak performance of the home team was pulled by the head coach Antti Pennanen look serious. Ilves’ brilliant early season has turned into a mess. The team has won only three of the last ten matches.
According to Pennanen, Ilves is under pressure to succeed.
– You can really feel the expectations for the team in the booth. Saw it today in the first round. We were a little slow. Tension, fear and uncertainty were visible in our playing, Pennanen said at the match’s press conference.
According to Pennanen, some of the expectations for the team are even unreasonable.
– This is one of the biggest issues that must be resolved here. This is not a criticism of anyone. We understand that it is expected of us and that is how it should be, Pennanen said, however.
Finally, Pennanen compared his team to the NHL team.
– There is a reason why, for example, Toronto doesn’t win the Stanley Cup terribly often. There must be something of the same type there, Pennanen said.
The Toronto Maple Leafs are known for the fact that the team receives a huge amount of media pressure every year. Pennanen also apparently referred to this in his speech.
Ilves still remains at the top of the SM league standings, but Tappara, who played five matches less, has already risen to equal points. If Ilves’ sled does not turn, there is a chance of falling.