HIFK-HPK 1.12.1996 5-0

Juri Kutznetsov - underrated as always

# 14 Juri Kutznetsov was again not awarded any stars, but was definitively the backbone of the HIFK defence. Scoring a beatiful goal and serving a few nice hits.

For once the puck bounced in HIFK´ favour, especially #15 Laukkanen was lucky twice scoring on deflections. The score doesn´t give HPK all the credit they deserve goalie Verner made some magnificent saves. Normally #22 Kortelainen is deadly close to the crease, but yesterday he was robbed at least twice on open chances. Other positive players were #16 Eriksson whose clearly adjusted better as center between Bisset and Kortelainen.

The new formations are working well, but I think Wahlberg is better centering Laukkanen and Hurme than in his current defensive line.

Backup goalie Jan Lundell recorded the first shutout of his career.

Veteran P.Lehtonen had a hard time defensively and was replaced in the 2nd period by young #36 Santeri Heiskanen.

Stars of the game were:

*** Kutznetsov, Lundell

** Jokinen, Laukkanen

* Eriksson

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