Ilves U20 Dominates Tappara in 6–2 Derby Win
Ilves U20 beat Tappara 6–2 on Oct. 21; debutant Frans Viita had two goals and two assists as Ilves controlled the derby.
Ilves U20 beat local rival Tappara 6–2 at Tappara's home rink on October 21, according to Ilves. The victory continues a strong run, coming after a 5–3 win over Kärpät on Oct. 9 and a 5–2 victory over SaiPa on Oct. 17.
The visitors controlled the match from the first whistle. New signing Frans Viita made an immediate impact, scoring twice and finishing with two goals and two assists in his debut after arriving from farm club Imatran Ketterä. Viita stole the show.
Kalle Karttu had three assists, Jalmari Melanen scored twice and Max Poikela added two assists as Ilves built and maintained a comfortable lead despite Tappara’s power-play chances. Goaltender Justus Vuorinen produced several key saves. Tappara’s goals came from Roope Saastamoinen and Emil Järventie.
Melanen sealed the result with a goal at 56:13, and an empty-netter at 57:57 completed the scoring, 6–2.
Coach Niko "Bono" Peltola praised the team's pressure and collective performance, saying it was their best game of the season and that Viita’s debut was very promising. Ilves returns to Hakametsä on Friday, October 23 to face HPK at 18:30, with the club encouraging fans to come and support the team.
Earlier coverage
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