Tag: Liiga

Jokerit return home but lose 4-2 as JYP extend perfect start

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Jokerit returned to their Helsinki arena for a Liiga home game but were beaten 4-2 by visiting JYP. Jokerit struck first – just 14 seconds into the match – but JYP responded and ultimately took the points. The contest featured two goalkeeper changes for Jokerit, on-ice altercations, video-review drama and prominent tifos from the home support; JYP remain perfect in their early-season run.

Key Facts

  • Final score: JYP 4, Jokerit 2.
  • Jokerit scored the opening goal 14 seconds into the match.
  • Jere Lassila scored for JYP at 4:42 and is identified as JYP captain and an involved player.
  • Max Krogdahl scored a goal for Jokerit after returning from a second-period penalty; the goal was confirmed by video review.
  • The match included two Jokerit goalkeeper changes: Veini Vehviläinen started in net for Jokerit; Olle Eriksson Ek was substituted in for the third period but was unable to continue after a collision.
  • The game featured physical incidents and a skirmish after JYP’s second goal.
  • Home supporters presented tifos during the match and also displayed shoes in the crowd.

IHM Discussion

The match swung quickly. Jokerit’s opener after 14 seconds offered a dream start on their Liiga return to the home arena, but JYP hit back and took the points. Jokerit’s two goaltender changes were a major thread in the game: Veini Vehviläinen started, while Olle Eriksson Ek entered in the third period but could not continue after a collision. Physicality, a video-reviewed goal and the home crowd’s tifos gave the night plenty beyond the final score.

Why It Matters

JYP’s victory maintains their flawless start to the season and shows they can take points on the road. For Jokerit, an opening goal after 14 seconds was not enough to secure a home result, while the two goaltender changes added another significant complication to an eventful night.

Mini Q&A

Who won the game and what was the score?

JYP won 4-2.

When did Jokerit score the opening goal?

Jokerit scored the opening goal 14 seconds into the match.

Which Jokerit goalkeepers were involved?

Veini Vehviläinen started in goal for Jokerit and Olle Eriksson Ek was substituted in for the third period but was unable to continue after a collision.

Were there any notable incidents?

Yes – the match featured on-ice scuffles after JYP’s second goal, two goalkeeper changes for Jokerit and prominent tifos from the crowd, including spectators displaying shoes.

What does this mean for JYP’s start to the season?

The win continued JYP’s perfect start to the season.

Coach Mark Comment

An early goal should allow a team to settle into its game, but this one became increasingly fractured. For Jokerit, the priority in a similarly physical match is to keep shifts short, manage the puck cleanly and retain defensive structure when momentum turns.

IHM Final View

JYP’s perfect early run continues, while Jokerit’s home return will be remembered for its atmosphere, goaltender changes and physical edge as much as the result. The home side made the ideal start but could not turn it into points.

Jokerit return home as JYP hand them 4-2 loss amid protests

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Jokerit returned to their home arena for a Liiga fixture but suffered a 4-2 defeat to visiting JYP. The match contained an early opening goal from Jokerit at 14 seconds, Jere Lassila’s leveller at 4.42, two changes in net for Jokerit, a later inability of Olle Eriksson Ek to continue after contact, and on-ice skirmishes. Fans filled the stands with tifos and other displays when the home side could not find victory.

Key Facts

  • Final score: JYP 4-2 Jokerit.
  • Jokerit returned to their familiar home arena for this Liiga match.
  • Jokerit scored the opening goal 14 seconds into the game.
  • Jere Lassila scored at 4.42, described as his first of the evening.
  • Veini Vehviläinen started in goal for the home side.
  • Olle Eriksson Ek was involved in contact late in the game and tried to continue but was unable to play on afterwards.
  • There were two goaltender changes reported in the match for Jokerit.
  • Max Krogdahl received a penalty in the second period and scored a goal seconds after the penalty ended; the goal was upheld after a video review.
  • JYP captain Jere Lassila was centrally involved in a third-period incident that left Emil Kuusela on top of Jokerit’s goalkeeper.
  • The game featured brief physical altercations between players, and supporters displayed tifos and other messages in the crowd, including shoes being waved in the stands.

IHM Discussion

Jokerit had heavy crowd support but finished with a home defeat. The game began at speed, with the hosts scoring after 14 seconds before Jere Lassila replied for JYP at 4.42. Jokerit made two goaltender changes, while a stoppage followed contact involving Olle Eriksson Ek in the third period. Max Krogdahl’s second-period equaliser, scored seconds after his penalty expired, stood after video review, and tempers flared after JYP’s second goal. The crowd’s tifos and shoe-waving added a pointed backdrop to a difficult night for the hosts.

Why It Matters

The result denied Jokerit points in their Liiga return to their familiar home arena. JYP, who had won all of their early-season games, added another victory, while Jokerit were left to reflect on a match shaped by quick scoring, changes in goal and physical flashpoints.

Fan Pulse

The home crowd was loud and highly visible, presenting large tifos and other displays throughout the match. When the result went against Jokerit, supporters continued to make their views known in the stands – even waving shoes – a clear sign of frustration with the team’s form early in the campaign.

Mini Q&A

Who won the match and what was the final score?

JYP won the match; the final score was 4-2.

Where did the game take place?

The game took place at Jokerit’s home arena in Helsinki, during Jokerit’s return to their home venue.

Who scored the opening goal and how quickly?

Jokerit scored the opening goal 14 seconds into the game.

Which goalkeeper started for Jokerit?

Veini Vehviläinen started in goal for Jokerit.

Were there any notable incidents during the game?

Yes. Jokerit made two goaltender changes, there were skirmishes after JYP’s second goal, and Olle Eriksson Ek was unable to continue after contact in the third period. Fans also displayed tifos and waved shoes in the stands.

Was any goal subject to video review?

Yes. A goal by Max Krogdahl was reviewed and ultimately upheld after video review.

Coach Mark Comment

From a coaching standpoint, two goaltender changes in one game demand a calm response from the skaters in front of the crease. The physical incidents also make composure important: teams need to stay connected through stoppages and keep their focus on the next shift.

IHM Final View

Jokerit’s homecoming did not produce the result they wanted. JYP took a 4-2 win in a game of rapid scoring, a video-reviewed goal, goaltender changes and physical flashpoints, while the home crowd made its feelings visible throughout the evening.

Jašek sinks OT winner as Ilves twice come back to beat Kärpät

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Ilves staged a dramatic late rally in Oulu, twice coming from behind to force extra time and eventually beating Kärpät 4-3. Lukáš Jašek finished the game in overtime, scoring at 60.37. Ilves first equalised at 57.19 through Jan-Mikael Järvinen, only for Andreas Okany to restore Kärpät’s lead 31 seconds later. With the goalkeeper pulled, Aleks Haatanen levelled again at 58.48 to make it 3-3, and Jašek decided the match in overtime. The result ended goaltender Mantas Armalis’s shutout run, which had lasted 134.50 minutes before Okany struck short-handed in the first period.

Key Facts

  • Final score: Ilves 4, Kärpät 3 (overtime).
  • Lukáš Jašek scored the overtime winner for Ilves at 60.37.
  • Ilves twice erased deficits to force extra time.
  • Jan-Mikael Järvinen scored the first late equaliser at 57.19.
  • Andreas Okany scored twice for Kärpät; his first was a short-handed goal at 14.50 that ended Mantas Armalis’s 134.50-minute shutout streak.
  • Okany’s second goal came 31 seconds after Järvinen’s 57.19 equaliser, restoring Kärpät’s lead.
  • Aleks Haatanen scored Ilves’s 3-3 equaliser at 58.48 with the net empty.
  • Aleks Haatanen opened the scoring for Ilves at 5.57.
  • An Ilves goal later in the game was disallowed after video review for goaltender interference.
  • Kärpät had a goal ruled out for offside by video review in the third period.
  • Ilves celebrated the overtime win in Oulu.
  • Järvinen’s 57.19 equaliser is the second-latest instance in Liiga history of a team levelling the game, falling behind again and then drawing level a second time; a similar sequence occurred with Tappara against KooKoo on 28 September 2022 (tied at 58.41 and again at 59.48).

IHM Discussion

The match between Kärpät and Ilves was defined by shifting momentum and late desperation. Ilves built early momentum through Aleks Haatanen’s opening goal but saw a second strike wiped out for goaltender interference after video review, a decision that kept the game tight. Kärpät then drew level when Andreas Okany scored short-handed, ending Mantas Armalis’s extended shutout run and leaving Ilves to chase the game again later in the contest.

The decisive phase came deep in the third period. Jan-Mikael Järvinen’s 57.19 equaliser gave Ilves a route back into the game, but Kärpät’s immediate reply underlined how quickly a game can swing. Ilves’s second comeback – Haatanen’s goal with the goalkeeper pulled at 58.48 – showed the visitors’ willingness to take risks in the closing minute. In overtime, Jašek provided the finishing touch at 60.37 to seal the win.

Why It Matters

The result matters for a few clear reasons anchored in the game itself: it gave Ilves an away win after two late comebacks; it ended Mantas Armalis’s notable 134.50-minute shutout sequence; and it showed how video reviews, a short-handed goal and late-game goaltender-pull tactics can shape a tightly contested match.

Mini Q&A

What was the final score and how was the game decided?

Ilves defeated Kärpät 4-3 in overtime; Lukáš Jašek scored the winning goal at 60.37.

Who ended Mantas Armalis’s shutout run and when?

Andreas Okany ended Armalis’s 134.50-minute shutout streak with a short-handed goal at 14.50 in the first period.

Which Ilves players scored the late equalisers?

Jan-Mikael Järvinen scored at 57.19 to make it 2-2, and Aleks Haatanen scored at 58.48 (with the net empty) to make it 3-3.

Were there any goals overturned?

Yes. An Ilves goal was disallowed after video review for goaltender interference, and Kärpät had a goal ruled out for offside following review.

Where was the match played?

The game took place in Oulu, where Kärpät were the home side.

Coach Mark Comment

Ilves’s response after each setback was the key coaching takeaway. The visitors found a late equaliser, conceded again 31 seconds later, then created one more opportunity with the goalkeeper pulled. In a finish like this, bench composure and clear execution matter as much as urgency.

IHM Final View

Ilves’s 4-3 overtime victory in Oulu will be remembered for its two late comebacks and for ending Mantas Armalis’s shutout streak. The match showed how reviews, a short-handed goal and late-period tactics can tilt a finely balanced Liiga game, with Lukáš Jašek’s finish providing the decisive edge for the visitors.

Kärpät show signs of improvement but face two big problems

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Oulun Kärpät have begun the Liiga season playing better hockey, with a clearer five-man game and more controlled attacking sequences. Yet the club still has two pressing problems: goaltender Niklas Rubin is not back to the standard he showed at Ässät, and home crowds at Raksila remain thin – only 3,632 attended the recent Ilves match. Other notes from recent games include a correctly ruled-off 3-1 goal against Ilves, centre signing Eetu Koivistoinen not yet delivering a big impact, Henrik Törnqvist filling in at third-line centre, and Andreas Okany producing two goals from the fourth line.

Key Facts

  • Columnist Antti Wennström reports Kärpät’s play has improved, with better five-man structure and tight central-zone defending.
  • In the recent home game against Ilves Kärpät gained only one point; the team earned no points in the JYP game.
  • Goalkeeper Niklas Rubin is singled out as needing to return to the level he showed with Ässät; he was judged ‘not even quite good’ in the Ilves game.
  • The club’s investment in centre Eetu Koivistoinen has not yet produced a major payoff; Henrik Törnqvist had to play third-line centre in the Ilves match.
  • Andreas Okany, who has been used earlier on the third line, scored two goals playing on the fourth line in a recent match.
  • Attendance at the Ilves home game was 3,632, described as embarrassingly low even against a top team.

IHM Discussion

Kärpät’s improvement is evident in the way the team defends space and builds attacks from a compact five-man shape. Tight neutral-zone defending, purposeful positioning and low-risk clearances have helped the side sustain longer attacking sequences, including against a skilled, mobile Ilves team. The assessment is still tempered by two major concerns. Niklas Rubin has not returned to the level he showed with Ässät, while an attendance of 3,632 against Ilves left Raksila looking unusually sparse. The on-ice structure is clearer, but Kärpät still need stronger performances in goal and a fuller arena around the team.

Why It Matters

A clearer defensive structure gives Kärpät a stronger base from which to compete, particularly in tight games. Rubin’s form remains an important concern after the assessment of his performance against Ilves, while the 3,632 crowd underlines the challenge of bringing more supporters back to Raksila. With AC Oulu identified as a growing local attraction, Kärpät face a significant task in rebuilding their match-night pull.

Mini Q&A

Has Kärpät’s on-ice play improved?

Yes. The columnist notes clearer five-man structure, stronger central-zone defending and more controlled attacking sequences against teams such as Ilves.

Which players were mentioned as notable in recent games?

Eetu Koivistoisen’s signing as a centre has not yet paid off; Henrik Törnqvist was used at third-line centre, and Andreas Okany scored two goals playing on the fourth line.

Is there any comment about local competition for fans?

Reportedly, AC Oulu is a growing local attraction and suggests it could soon overtake Kärpät in attendance, adding to the challenge of attracting spectators.

Was any individual defensive play singled out for critique?

Yes. The columnist criticised Rasmus Rissanen’s play on the equaliser and suggested, half-jokingly, that he and Erik Hämäläinen practise stick work in front of goal.

IHM Final View

Kärpät are showing encouraging signs: the five-man game is clearer and their defensive decisions look more composed. But the column’s two central concerns remain: Rubin needs to rediscover his previous level, and the club needs to bring more supporters back to Raksila. Better play has created a platform; sustaining it is the next test.

Kiekko-Espoo names two new members to its board

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Kiekko-Espoo Oy has announced the composition of its new board following the company’s shareholders’ meeting. Two new members, Amel Gaily and Erkki Zaiedman, were elected at the 3.9 meeting. The board convened for the first time on 14.9. Henrik Pankakoski, who had served on the board for several years, has left the board. Existing directors remaining on the board are chair Arto Linnervuo, vice-chair Jan Westö and members Olli Hänninen, Nora Ojala (chair of Kiekko-Espoo Ry), Karri Kivioja and Toni Kähkönen.

Key Facts

  • Kiekko-Espoo Oy’s shareholders’ meeting on 3.9. elected two new board members.
  • The board met for the first time on 14.9.
  • New board members are Amel Gaily and Erkki Zaiedman.
  • Henrik Pankakoski left the board after several years of service.
  • Amel Gaily is chief executive officer of wellbeing technology company Cuckoo Networks Oy.
  • Gaily said she has progressed through Espoo’s hockey pathway from Noux to Blues and called Kiekko-Espoo a “great brand”.
  • Gaily added that much good work has been done, that the club is in an interesting situation and that she sees “huge potential” in Espoo.
  • Erkki Zaiedman is a K-food retailer at K-Supermarket Lasihytti and K-Market Kauklahti through Kapseri Oy, and serves on the K-Supermarket chain’s board.
  • Zaiedman said Espoo hockey has been close to his heart and that he wanted to give something back, adding that developing local Espoo is important to him and that Kiekko-Espoo suits his work perfectly.
  • Continuing on the board are chair Arto Linnervuo, vice-chair Jan Westö and members Olli Hänninen, Nora Ojala (Kiekko-Espoo Ry chair), Karri Kivioja and Toni Kähkönen.

IHM Discussion

The board change at Kiekko-Espoo Oy is an organisational development that mixes corporate and local retail experience with a technology-sector executive. The company confirmed the formal election of Amel Gaily and Erkki Zaiedman at the shareholders’ meeting on 3.9 and noted the board’s first meeting on 14.9. The departure of Henrik Pankakoski clears space for the two additions without altering the rest of the existing board, which remains led by chair Arto Linnervuo and vice-chair Jan Westö. Both new members framed their participation in local and personal terms: Gaily referenced a long personal connection to Espoo hockey and Zaiedman emphasised a desire to support the local community.

Why It Matters

Board composition can influence a club’s strategic direction and community relationships. Gaily arrives from the wellbeing technology sector as chief executive of Cuckoo Networks Oy, while Zaiedman brings grocery-retail experience through two K-brand stores and a role on the K-Supermarket chain’s board. Both highlighted ties to Espoo and a wish to contribute locally, underlining the local perspective behind the appointments.

Mini Q&A

Who were the new board members appointed to Kiekko-Espoo Oy?

Amel Gaily and Erkki Zaiedman were elected to the board.

When were the new members elected and when did the board first meet?

They were elected at the shareholders’ meeting on 3.9., and the board met for the first time on 14.9.

Who left the board to make way for the new appointments?

Henrik Pankakoski, who had served on the board for several years, left the board.

What are the professional backgrounds of the new appointees?

Amel Gaily is chief executive of wellbeing technology company Cuckoo Networks Oy. Erkki Zaiedman is a K-food retailer at K-Supermarket Lasihytti and K-Market Kauklahti through Kapseri Oy, and serves on the K-Supermarket chain’s board.

Which board members remain in place following the changes?

Chair Arto Linnervuo, vice-chair Jan Westö and members Olli Hänninen, Nora Ojala (chair of Kiekko-Espoo Ry), Karri Kivioja and Toni Kähkönen remain on the board.

IHM Final View

Kiekko-Espoo’s new board is now a mix of longstanding club figures and recently appointed local and commercial leaders. With the formal election on 3.9 and the inaugural meeting on 14.9 completed, the immediate governance picture is clear: two new voices join an otherwise unchanged board. How those voices influence commercial partnerships, community work and the club’s broader strategy will be visible only through the board’s future activity; the statement so far is one of intent and local commitment rather than specific operational change.

Němeček set for HIFK debut as Šustr cleared to play

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

HIFK has reshuffled its line-up as it seeks a response after an uneven start to the season. Czech defenceman David Němeček is set to make his debut on the second pairing alongside Kasper Puutio, while forwards Eetu Liukas, Lauri Sinivuori and Ilari Melart move into the line-up. Jukurit defender Andrej Šustr was not suspended following disciplinary review and is available for the game, with Alex Lintuniemi added to the side while Jeremi Tammela is sidelined after taking a hit on Tuesday. Matthieu Herpin will start in goal for Jukurit.

Key Facts

  • League: Liiga.
  • David Němeček is set to make his HIFK debut on the second pairing alongside Kasper Puutio.
  • Eetu Liukas, Lauri Sinivuori and Ilari Melart were promoted into HIFK’s playing line-up.
  • Andrej Šustr (Jukurit) faced disciplinary review but was not suspended and is in the team.
  • Alex Lintuniemi was added to Jukurit’s line-up, while Jeremi Tammela is sidelined after taking a hit on Tuesday.
  • Matthieu Herpin starts in goal for Jukurit.
  • KooKoo start Eetu Randelin in goal for his first appearance this season.
  • Ville Meskanen returns to KooKoo’s top line; Joona Riekkinen replaces Joseph Berger on the KooKoo blue line.
  • Arvid Costmar (JYP) will play his first Liiga match.
  • Sami Vatanen returns to JYP’s line-up after a one-game absence; Oskari Salminen takes the net for JYP for the first time this season.

IHM Discussion

The early-season tinkering is evident across several Liiga clubs. HIFK’s decision to place David Němeček on the second defensive pairing beside Kasper Puutio gives the blue line a different look without wholesale upheaval. The inclusion of Eetu Liukas, Lauri Sinivuori and Ilari Melart also changes the available forward options.

Jukurit retain Andrej Šustr following disciplinary review, while Alex Lintuniemi enters the line-up for Jeremi Tammela. Matthieu Herpin gets the start in goal for the evening.

KooKoo will start Eetu Randelin for his first appearance of the season and return Ville Meskanen to the top line. Joona Riekkinen replaces Joseph Berger on the blue line. Meanwhile, JYP’s Swedish signing Arvid Costmar is set for his first Liiga game, while Sami Vatanen returns and Oskari Salminen starts in goal for the first time this season.

Why It Matters

Line-up adjustments and disciplinary decisions directly affect match-day options. Němeček’s introduction gives HIFK a new look on defence, while Šustr’s availability allows Jukurit to retain a planned blue-line option. Herpin’s start for Jukurit and Randelin’s first appearance of the season for KooKoo are immediate goaltending factors for the evening.

Mini Q&A

Who made his HIFK defensive debut?

David Němeček is set to make his HIFK debut on the second pairing alongside Kasper Puutio.

Was Andrej Šustr suspended?

No. Andrej Šustr faced disciplinary review but was not given a suspension and is available.

Who starts in goal for Jukurit and KooKoo?

Matthieu Herpin starts for Jukurit; Eetu Randelin starts for KooKoo in his first appearance this season.

Which JYP player will play his first Liiga game?

Arvid Costmar, JYP’s Swedish signing, will make his Liiga debut.

Jukurit upend TPS 4-1 as Ford and Olofsson deliver

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Jukurit claimed a 4-1 victory over TPS in Turku. Jukurit struck in the first period and then absorbed a stronger second-period showing from the home side; the visitors held firm through the third and stopped TPS’s late push. Jesper Olofsson and Connor Ford scored for Jukurit, while Joel Määttä scored TPS’s lone goal. Jukurit head coach Jonne Virtanen was pictured reacting during the game, while Kasper Pikkarainen logged 33 minutes and 12 seconds of ice time according to Liiga’s pages.

Key Facts

  • TPS lost 4-1 at home to Jukurit.
  • Jesper Olofsson scored for Jukurit and struck first.
  • Connor Ford also scored for Jukurit.
  • Joel Määttä scored TPS’s goal, described as a shot from a tight angle.
  • TPS played well in the second period but had been undone by first-period goals conceded.
  • Jukurit held on in the third period and ended TPS’s attempts to mount a comeback in the final minutes.
  • Jukurit head coach Jonne Virtanen is pictured reacting during the match.
  • Kasper Pikkarainen logged 33 minutes and 12 seconds of ice time, according to Liiga’s pages.

IHM Discussion

The match hinged on a troublesome opening period for TPS. First-period goals conceded in their own end proved decisive: although TPS lifted its level in the middle period, it could not erase the deficit. Jesper Olofsson and Connor Ford supplied Jukurit’s named goals, while the home side created chances without finding enough finishing. Määtän’s goal offered TPS a lift, but not a route back into the result. The evening also carried plenty of emotion, with Virtanen’s reaction and Jukurit’s celebration in the Turku end underlining the visitors’ control of the occasion.

Why It Matters

The result gives Jukurit an away win and leaves TPS with a home defeat despite a stronger second period. For TPS, it showed how early concessions and missed chances can create a gap that is difficult to close. Jukurit converted their early momentum and protected their lead under pressure late on.

Mini Q&A

What was the final score?

TPS 1-4 Jukurit.

Which Jukurit players scored?

Jesper Olofsson and Connor Ford scored for Jukurit.

Who scored for TPS?

Joel Määttä scored TPS’s lone goal with a tight-angle strike.

How did the game develop across the periods?

Jukurit scored in the first period to establish a lead. TPS played well in the second but could not overturn the deficit, before Jukurit held firm in the third and ended the late comeback attempt.

Any notable ice-time or individual statistics mentioned?

Kasper Pikkarainen logged 33 minutes and 12 seconds of ice time, according to Liiga’s pages.

Coach Mark Comment

TPS needed a sharper response after the early goals and more finish around the net during their stronger second period. Jukurit’s advantage allowed them to defend their lead with composure through the third and withstand the late push.

IHM Final View

Jukurit earned a clear win in Turku by taking advantage of a productive opening period and then defending stoutly as TPS pushed back. Named scorers Jesper Olofsson and Connor Ford supplied the decisive moments, Joel Määttä replied for the hosts, and the visitors held on to claim the 4-1 result. The match will be seen as a missed opportunity for TPS and a compact away performance for Jukurit.

Joona Kumpula unbowed after Pelicans’ first loss

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Pelicans suffered their first defeat of the season against Tappara, but winger Joona Kumpula continued his strong start by scoring in the match to draw Pelicans level in the third period. Kumpula, a Jokerit youth product, has four points in four games and has now scored in back-to-back fixtures. Pelicans sit with three wins from four games and will travel to Mikkeli to face Jukurit next.

Key Facts

  • Joona Kumpula scored for Pelicans in their loss to Tappara, bringing the game to 2-2 in the third period.
  • Kumpula is described as a Jokerit youth product.
  • Kumpula has collected four points in four Liiga games to start the season.
  • Kumpula scored in consecutive matches; his previous goal came against KalPa and was his first of the season.
  • Pelicans suffered their first defeat after a strong start to the season; the club has three wins from four games.
  • Pelicans struggled early against Tappara, with Kumpula saying they were badly outplayed in the opening stages.
  • The team improved as the match progressed, but their power play failed to function effectively in the Tappara game.
  • Pelicans were unable to relieve Tappara’s first or second wave of pressure consistently during the match.
  • Pelicans’ third line created several good chances in the third period, but Tappara goaltender Christian Heljanko denied them.
  • Pelicans will travel to Mikkeli to play Jukurit in their next fixture, scheduled for Friday.

IHM Discussion

Joona Kumpula’s early-season form offers Pelicans an attacking spark. Four points in as many games and goals in successive outings point to a productive start for the winger, giving the side another scoring threat when games tighten up.

The defeat to Tappara highlighted two areas for Pelicans to address. Kumpula was unhappy with the opening stages, while the power play lacked composure and puck control. Pelicans struggled to play through Tappara’s first and second layers of pressure, making it difficult to settle the game when they needed to.

Why It Matters

Pelicans’ 3-1 start shows the club is a genuine early positive in Liiga, but the Tappara defeat is an early reminder that margins are fine at this level. Kumpula’s production mitigates some concern: reliable secondary scoring shortens the list of problems to solve. If Pelicans can convert their created chances and tidy up power-play composure, their current form should be sustainable. Conversely, repeated poor starts and ineffective handling of pressure will make points harder to come by against top teams.

Mini Q&A

Did Joona Kumpula score in the Tappara game?

Yes. Joona Kumpula scored in the match against Tappara, bringing Pelicans level at 2-2 in the third period.

How productive has Kumpula been to start the season?

Kumpula has four points in four Liiga games and has scored in consecutive matches.

What was Pelicans’ record after the Tappara loss?

Pelicans had three wins from four games following the defeat to Tappara.

What were the main problems Pelicans faced in the Tappara match?

Pelicans started poorly, struggled to calm and control the puck, and their power play produced careless solutions without the required calmness.

Who do Pelicans play next?

Pelicans travel to Mikkeli to play Jukurit on Friday.

Coach Mark Comment

Kumpula’s scoring start gives Pelicans a useful attacking lift. The coaching priority is to pair that confidence with cleaner team habits: calmer exits under pressure, more patient power-play decisions and a sharper opening shift.

What Comes Next

Pelicans travel to Mikkeli to face Jukurit on Friday; the team intends to carry forward the improved play from the late stages of the Tappara match rather than dwell on the defeat.

IHM Final View

Joona Kumpula’s productive start is a clear positive for Pelicans. The Tappara loss exposed areas needing attention – starts, puck management and power-play composure – but Pelicans showed improvement as the game went on. If they make targeted corrections while Kumpula continues to contribute, the early-season promise remains intact.

Pelicans terminate contract with Samuel Húževka

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Pelicans have announced the mutual termination of the contract of 20-year-old Slovak defenceman Samuel Húževka. The club said the decision was taken by mutual agreement. Húževka has not played this season. He spent two seasons within the Pelicans organisation and made his Liiga debut last season, appearing in six regular-season games with one goal. In junior competition, he played 34 U20 SM-sarja regular-season games (4+5) and four playoff games (0+1).

Key Facts

  • Pelicans announced they have terminated the contract of Samuel Húževka by mutual agreement.
  • Samuel Húževka is a 20-year-old Slovak defenceman.
  • Húževka has not played at all this season for Pelicans.
  • He spent two seasons inside the Pelicans organisation.
  • Húževka made his Liiga debut last season, playing six regular-season games and recording 1+0.
  • In U20 SM-sarja action last season he played 34 regular-season games (4+5) and four playoff games (0+1).

IHM Discussion

The club’s brief notice closes Húževka’s spell with Pelicans after two seasons in the organisation. His pathway included six Liiga appearances last season, in which he scored one goal, alongside a fuller role at U20 level, where he registered nine points in 34 regular-season games and added one assist in four playoff matches. He did not play this season. The mutual termination brings his time with Pelicans to an end.

Why It Matters

For Pelicans, the departure removes a young defenceman from the organisation. For Húževka, it ends a two-season spell with Pelicans that included a brief Liiga debut and more substantial junior action.

KalPa routs HPK 7-0 as Lyytinen nets a brace

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

KalPa produced a comprehensive 7-0 home victory over HPK in Kuopio. KalPa built a five-goal lead in the second period and added further strikes in the third. Defenceman Joonas Lyytinen scored twice and collected three points. Other goals came from Juuso Könönen, Aleksi Klemetti, Juuso Mäenpää (two) and Konsta Kapanen. HPK goaltender Jacob Crespin took a two-minute penalty for tripping and was later replaced by Kim Saarinen.

Key Facts

  • Competition: Liiga.
  • Final score: KalPa 7, HPK 0.
  • Joonas Lyytinen scored two goals and finished with three points.
  • Juuso Könönen scored to make it 2-0.
  • Aleksi Klemetti scored on the subsequent power play after Crespin’s two-minute penalty.
  • After the Klemetti goal HPK replaced Jacob Crespin with Kim Saarinen.
  • KalPa scored three goals in a 5 minute 16 second span in the second period.
  • Valtteri Piiroinen and Miska Kukkonen received 2+2-minute penalties for HPK.
  • Juuso Mäenpää scored two goals, including at the end of the second period and again in the third.
  • Konsta Kapanen added one goal in the third period.

IHM Discussion

The match was decided by KalPa’s explosive second period, when they turned a 1-0 opening into a 5-0 lead. KalPa scored three times in five minutes and 16 seconds during the middle frame, with Aleksi Klemetti converting on the power play after Jacob Crespin’s two-minute penalty for tripping. Crespin was later replaced in net by Kim Saarinen. Valtteri Piiroinen and Miska Kukkonen also received 2+2-minute penalties for HPK, while Lyytinen’s two goals and three-point night anchored KalPa’s scoring.

Why It Matters

A 7-0 scoreline is a statement result in Liiga. KalPa’s decisive second-period surge put the game beyond HPK’s reach before the home side added two more goals in the third.

Mini Q&A

What was the final score?

KalPa defeated HPK 7-0.

Who led KalPa’s scoring?

Defenceman Joonas Lyytinen scored twice and finished with three points.

Which players scored for KalPa?

Goals were scored by Joonas Lyytinen (2), Juuso Könönen, Aleksi Klemetti, Juuso Mäenpää (2) and Konsta Kapanen.

Were there notable penalties or a goalie change?

Jacob Crespin took a two-minute penalty that led to a KalPa power-play goal and was later replaced by Kim Saarinen; Valtteri Piiroinen and Miska Kukkonen received 2+2-minute penalties.