Yak Tapasalu claimed a 3-1 victory over Tartu Kalev in the 21st round of the Esiliiga B on Saturday. The hosts took all 3 points from the contest at their home ground. It was a result that kept their mid-table ambitions alive.
G. Kruusla opened the scoring in the 24th minute, giving the home side an early lead. To be fair, the visitors looked disjointed in their opening exchanges. The break came after a period where Tapasalu controlled the tempo.
M. Villems restored the advantage just before the hour mark, netting in the 48th minute. By then, Kalev had settled into their shape but struggled to find an answer. The hosts were growing in confidence with each passing phase.
K. Kohv made it 3-0 in the 68th minute, extending the lead before the visitors could regroup. And here's the thing about these fixtures; momentum shifts quickly when one side loses focus. Tapasalu were now in control of the narrative.
Tartu Kalev pulled a goal back through A. Anepaio in the 90+1st minute from the penalty spot. It was a consolation that did little to salvage the afternoon for the away team. The match ended with the hosts having done their work. The visitors will have to look elsewhere for points.
The result leaves Yak Tapasalu in 8th place with 32 points from 28 games. Tartu Kalev remain 5th, sitting on 44 points after 14 wins. The gap between them remains significant heading into the final stretch.
Recent form suggests a divergence in fortunes for both sides. Tapasalu have won 3 of their last 5, while Kalev won 4 before their previous loss to these same hosts. This result adds a layer of complexity to the standings. The table positions reflect this ongoing shift.