The results had contrasting implications at opposite ends of the standings, with SaiPa moving up to fifth and Sport creating more breathing space above the relegation zone.
SaiPa hold off HPK to secure narrow victory
SaiPa returned to domestic action after losing to Plzeň in the Champions Hockey League, but responded with a hard-fought win over HPK at Kisapuisto.
Brian Kramer opened the scoring in the fourth minute, giving the home side an early advantage. SaiPa then doubled their lead early in the second period when Petrus Palmu converted a power play.
Palmu had an opportunity to extend the advantage further in the third period but missed a penalty. That gave HPK a chance to fight back, and Viljami Jokirinne scored in the closing moments to reduce the deficit.
However, SaiPa held on to collect all three points and end HPK’s four-match winning streak.
Goalkeeper Gustavs Grigals played a crucial role in the victory, making 20 saves as HPK pushed for an equaliser. The result moved SaiPa into fifth place, while HPK remained 11th.
Vaasan Sport claim consecutive wins
Vaasan Sport continued their recovery with a 4-3 home victory over KooKoo, following their earlier win against league leaders Ilves.
The hosts made a strong start, with Viljami Nieminen opening the scoring before Vilmos Gallo quickly equalised for KooKoo. Kalle Kangas restored Sport’s advantage before the end of the first period.
Simon Akerstrom extended the home side’s lead in the second period, making it 3-1 and putting Sport in a strong position.
KooKoo attempted to fight back when Veeti Miettinen scored while his team was short-handed. However, Brett Harrison restored Sport’s two-goal cushion to make it 4-2.
Oskari Luoto pulled another goal back for KooKoo with just over seven minutes remaining, setting up a tense finish. Sport nevertheless protected their advantage to secure the victory without allowing the visitors to force overtime.
Sport move clear of the relegation zone
The victory marked Sport’s second consecutive win of the season, an important turnaround after a difficult start to the campaign.
Sport climbed to 13th in the standings, moving three points clear of the bottom three. KooKoo remained at the foot of the table, 10 points behind Sport, with just one league victory to their name at the time of the report.
For SaiPa, the win offered a timely boost as they closed in on the top four. For Sport, the result provided further encouragement in their effort to move away from the danger zone.
Both teams will look to build on their latest performances as the Liiga season continues.