Total domination and the return of Jan Calounīs goalscoring were the key elements as HIFK beat Jokerit for the 1st time ever on flashy "Hartwall Arena".
The coaches had rejoined Ruuttu and Caloun as the latter has suffered from a long period of inefficiency. Also Jokinen (0+3) and Kortelainen (1+0) enjoyed the opportunity to play together.
In defence the veterans saw all the ice time and Kultanen who replaced Rajala really upped his performance level. Halkidis sufferd a couple of crucial penalties more on past performances than on actual infringements. Newly elected olympic participant Timonen was solid.
Tim Thomas played brilliantly and rose clearly to the occasion and most notable was the total absence of loose pucks in the crease which have posed a threat in earlier games.
Stars:
#1 Tim Thomas
#2 Jan Caloun
#3 Olli Jokinen