Izhevsk — AKM: 4:3, VHL

Izhsk beat AKM 4-3 in the Higher Hockey League on Thursday. The result came as a surprise given the positions both teams hold in the table. AKM sit third while Izhsk languish at the bottom.

Izhsk have won only twice in eight games. They drew nothing and lost six times. Their recent form shows a 3-2 victory over Ryzan before a string of defeats.

We predicted a home win at 46 per cent confidence. By then the signs pointed that way. Izhsk had found their rhythm against Ryzan while AKM dropped points against Olimpiya.

AKM arrive with six wins from nine matches. They lost three times including the match against Buran Voronezh. Their attack has been prolific with several high-scoring encounters.

The home side held firm despite the gap in league position. Three goals to two after regulation would have suited the visitors. But Izhsk finished stronger when it mattered most.

The result keeps Izhsk on zero points at 29th place. AKM remain third but the league standings go out the window in these games. One more point for the visitors as they continue their campaign.