IFK took their third win in a row in the League.
Helsinki IFK is living in scarce but productive times. IFK took a small 2–0 victory from the Hämeenlinna Ball Club and the last of these goals fell into an empty frame.
Just a day earlier, IFK had won KooKoo 2–1, so even with a small number of goals you can win.
IFK grabbed the third points in a row in the League. The last time the team won three games was from late December to early January, when the series stretched to four games.
Match there were more than two batches of boredom until accurate defense. The attack became difficult when the central area was blocked like a dam built by a hut.
“With strict defense and [Michael] Garteigin a great draw came today. It could be more effective, but in fact it is a good experience for us today to have such a strong defensive battle, ”IFK’s head coach Ville Peltonen said.
The opening paint had to wait for the third batch, but it came from there. It was handsome too.
Wearing a gold helmet Jere Innala gave a skillful cross across the attack area and the defender Yohann Auvitu fired through the pole into the top corner.
Auvituu’s goal came in 43.12, after which the game started to open, more situations to come and thus the momentum to the offensive game.
“I think we played smart and a little more tactfully,” Garteig said. He fought 23 puck and HPK Eetu Laurikainen 24. Only one was pushed behind his back when Iiro Pakarinen scooped IFK’s second hit into the empty net.
HPK tried to even things up by sending a long ball towards the centrally placed strikers, but the visitors’ defense got the best of this rather direct style of play.
“We have played against HPK many times this season and they are a very hardworking team. We knew how to handle them well and defended them well, ”Garteig said.
Early in the season, Garteig lost similar matches and didn’t seem to catch up with the rhythm. Now self-confidence is starting to be in place.
“In the last two games, we haven’t scored as many goals as we would like, but we played heavily in defense.”
HIFK’s week continues on Friday with a home game against Kärppi and the Aces are waiting in Pori on Saturday.
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