Pelicans vs TPS on 7 February
The ice will be on fire this February 7th as the Pelicans prepare to face TPS in a critical Liiga clash. Scheduled to take place at the Lahti Sports Center, this game promises to be an intense battle between two teams with everything to play for. For the Pelicans, the stakes are high as they look to solidify their playoff position, while TPS will be fighting to climb the standings and close the gap to the top. With only a few months left in the regular season, every point matters, making this matchup a must-watch for hockey fans across Europe. The rink will certainly provide an electric atmosphere as both teams seek to make their mark.
Pelicans: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Pelicans enter this game with a solid recent run of form, having won three of their last five games. Their style of play revolves around fast-paced, offensive-minded hockey, with an emphasis on quick transitions from defense to attack. They are known for their aggressive forecheck, often pressuring opponents deep in their own zone to create turnovers and capitalize on mistakes. This strategy has been effective in generating high-quality scoring chances, reflected in their average of 32 shots on goal per game, placing them among the league's best in terms of offensive output.
One of Pelicans' strengths lies in their power play. They boast a power play conversion rate of 22.5%, a figure that places them comfortably in the middle of the pack but with plenty of room for improvement. When it clicks, their top-line forwards—especially the likes of top scorer Kalle Kossila—become even more dangerous, finding space in high-scoring areas. However, their penalty kill could be a point of concern. At 79%, they will need to tighten up defensively to withstand TPS's power play pressure.
Looking at injuries, the Pelicans will be without the services of key defenseman Jani Hakanpaa, whose physical presence on the blue line will be missed in this contest. His absence could force the team to rely more on their depth, potentially reshuffling defensive pairings, which could affect their structure in high-pressure situations. However, the Pelicans have shown resilience in similar situations this season, with players like Anton Lundell stepping up in both offensive and defensive roles.
TPS: Tactical Approach and Current Form
TPS enters the match with a slightly different mindset. Despite recent inconsistency, with only two wins in their last five outings, TPS remains one of the most well-balanced teams in the league. Their playstyle is built around a strong defensive foundation, led by veteran goaltender Veini Vehviläinen, who has been nothing short of brilliant this season. TPS excels at limiting opposing shots on goal (allowing just 28.5 per game), and they focus on structured, disciplined defense, forcing the opposition into difficult angles and low-percentage chances.
While their offense may not be as prolific as Pelicans, TPS’s key to success lies in their ability to capitalize on mistakes and control the flow of the game through puck possession. They have a neutral zone trap that stifles opposing rushes, slowing down the speed of the game and forcing opponents to play at their tempo. The squad's power play sits at a respectable 20.7%, and with playmakers like David Gustafsson pulling the strings, they can be dangerous when given opportunities with the man advantage. The ability of players like Otto Nieminen to win face-offs in key situations will also be crucial in this matchup, as TPS likes to maintain possession and dictate play.
In terms of injuries, TPS will be without forward Kasperi Kapanen, who has been a key offensive contributor. His absence could create a hole in their forward lines, meaning other players must rise to the occasion. However, with players like Henrik Haukeland and Jere Karjalainen stepping up, TPS has depth to cover this loss, although they’ll need to do so without disrupting the team's system of play.
Head-to-Head: History and Psychology
The previous encounters between Pelicans and TPS this season have been closely contested, with each team claiming one win. The first meeting saw Pelicans triumph 4-3 in a high-scoring affair, while TPS edged out a 2-1 victory in a much tighter, defensive battle. This contrast in results highlights the divergent approaches of the teams. Pelicans are more comfortable in a fast-paced, open game, while TPS thrives in tight, disciplined contests where every mistake is magnified. Historically, games between these two teams have been intense, with a physical edge often creeping into the match.
The psychological battle in this fixture will be just as important as the tactical one. Pelicans will look to exploit the gap in firepower left by Kapanen’s injury and will aim to attack early, putting pressure on the TPS defense. Meanwhile, TPS will look to prove that their defense-first approach can neutralize Pelicans' offensive prowess. The team that can impose their style will have the edge, with Pelicans needing to avoid getting bogged down in a defensive struggle.
Key Battles and Critical Zones
One of the most intriguing individual matchups will be between the goaltenders: Pelicans' Juho Markkanen and TPS's Veini Vehviläinen. Markkanen has been in excellent form, boasting a save percentage of .917, while Vehviläinen has a slightly better .923. The goalie who can stand tall under pressure will be pivotal in deciding the game's outcome, especially during moments of sustained pressure, such as power plays and odd-man rushes.
Another crucial battle will be in the neutral zone, where TPS’s trap will challenge Pelicans' speed and transition game. If Pelicans' forwards can break through the neutral zone and generate offensive zone time, they will force TPS to defend in their own end. The ability of Pelicans' defensemen, like Ville Heinola, to join the rush and support the attack will be critical. Meanwhile, TPS will look to use their neutral zone trap to slow down Pelicans and frustrate their pace. The team that wins this battle for control of the center ice will likely gain the upper hand in dictating the flow of the game.
Match Scenario and Prediction
All things considered, this game is likely to be a tense, low-scoring affair, with both teams focused on limiting mistakes. Pelicans will look to use their offensive depth to create chances on the rush and capitalize on TPS’s occasional defensive lapses. On the other hand, TPS will stick to their defensive-first approach, aiming to slow down the game and force Pelicans into difficult shots. Expect to see Pelicans pressure Vehviläinen early on, while TPS will counter with strong, disciplined defensive play, hoping to capitalize on any mistakes made by their opponents.
In terms of prediction, I see a 3-2 victory for Pelicans. Their offensive firepower, led by Kossila, will prove too much for TPS's defense, even though TPS's goalie Vehviläinen will keep them in the game. Pelicans will take advantage of their power play opportunities and edge out a close win.
Final Thoughts
This game will be a true test of tactical discipline, as both teams bring contrasting styles to the ice. Pelicans will need to break down TPS’s defensive trap and capitalize on scoring chances, while TPS will be aiming to grind out a result through tight defense and opportunistic offense. The outcome of this match could be decided by small moments—whether it’s a power play goal, a critical save, or a key turnover in the neutral zone. With everything on the line, the battle between offensive speed and defensive discipline will shape the outcome of this high-stakes clash.
Can TPS’s defense prove strong enough to stifle Pelicans’ attacking force, or will Pelicans’ firepower overwhelm TPS in this crucial fixture? This is the question that will be answered on February 7th.
