Ässien Jarno Pikkarainen admits: "The puck has bounced our way"

Pori Ässät secured their second attachment to a playoff spot in the Liiga on Saturday by defeating Kiekko-Espoo in overtime with a score of 2–1.

Although the situation looks good for the Ässät, head coach Jarno Pikkarainen states in an interview with SuomiKiekko after the match that the series is far from over.

– Kiekko-Espoo has been a very tough opponent, and it will only get tougher. The puck has bounced our way a bit, but we still need to improve. Espoo will certainly improve as well, Pikkarainen commented.

According to Pikkarainen, mere support from the home crowd is not enough to propel the Poris to the quarterfinals next Monday.

– The support from the home crowd alone is not enough. Many things need to improve, but now we have a couple of days to watch videos and prepare for Monday.

Ässät was at times a bit overwhelmed in the match, but they managed to fight their way to another victory after a long battle.

– I am satisfied with the work ethic. There were many difficult moments, but we got through them and scored one more goal, which is what matters, Pikkarainen noted.

The away team’s backbone stood between the posts on Saturday night. Jan Bednar, who saved 44 shots, shut out the home team despite their great chances in overtime.

Pikkarainen praised the 23-year-old Czech after the match, who once again secured an important victory for his team.

– He is a hungry and determined guy, calm by nature. He reads the game well and gives the team a chance to win every night.

The series is on the line for the Poris next Monday at Isomäki Ice Hall due to Saturday’s result.

Väinö Helenius