Ilves clinches fifth straight win as Austin Strand scores twice
Ilves beat TPS 3–2 at Nokia Arena on Sunday, securing their fifth consecutive victory in front of 8,421 fans.
Ilves beat TPS 3–2 at Nokia Arena on Sunday, securing their fifth consecutive victory in front of 8,421 fans, according to the club's website. Defenseman Austin Strand decided the game with two late goals. One came on an empty-net strike at 58:52; he finished with a 2+1 line.
Luke Henman scored on a power play at 29:50, and TPS had taken an early lead through Lukas Wernblom at 20:35. Otto Paajanen pulled one back for the visitors at 59:44, but it proved too late.
Christoffer Rifalk made 22 saves for Ilves. TPS netminder Noa Vali stopped 17 attempts.
The win leaves Ilves with six victories in seven games and 17 points. They sit third in the standings and host league leader Jukurit and K‑Espoo next week.
The victory continues Ilves's strong start to the Liiga season, following the season-opening road win in Rauma and the 6–0 home opener at Nokia Arena.
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