Only one match was played in the league on Thursday.
The playoff line threatens to run away from the Club commanded by Maso Lehtonen. Jaakko Stenroos / AOP
HPK was a persistent host, but Ilves finally left for the short journey home with a full pot. The final result was recorded as 2–3.
Petteri Nikkilä took the second place in middle area blocking in 59.08. Ilves thanked and scored the winning goal 13 seconds later.
Adam Glendening sent a line delivery to goal. Joona Ikonen guided and finally forced the puck over the line.
HPK coach Maso Lehtonen didn’t go on Maikkar’s broadcast to Finland for the verdict that paid the profit.
– The judges blow the whistle, and we are coached, he acknowledged.
Ilves pulled three points clear at the top of the league. Tappara, managing second place, has played two matches less.
HPK is still five points away from the top ten.
– We weren’t quite ready to win, Lehtonen said in Maikkar.
– Ilves is a stunningly good attacking team.