Kiev Capitals saw off Riga Prizma 6:3 in the Optibet Hockey League on Tuesday evening. The hosts took control of the tie early and never looked back. Three goals in the first period set the tone, and despite a late push from the visitors, the result was never in doubt.
By then Riga had paid for a sloppy opening, conceding three in quick succession. They fought back to knock two past the home keeper, but each response was answered. And here's the thing — the momentum never really left the home side after that early burst.
We gave Kiev Capitals to win at 69 per cent confidence, and the match played out exactly as we expected. Their recent form — four victories in five outings — showed a side in rhythm, while Riga's one win in six games told you they would struggle away from home. The form guide rarely lies when teams are this far apart.
The table tells a simple story so far. Kiev sit second after five matches, while Riga occupy sixth after six. Both sides carry zero points, which means the standings are still finding their shape. The gap between them is more about games played than results so far.
Kiev's recent results show a team finding its feet. They beat Paneks Vilnius 9:1 and Liepaja 5:0 before the midweek defeat to Mogo. Riga, meanwhile, have lost four of their last six, including heavy defeats to Liepaja on consecutive days.
This result extends Kiev's unbeaten run to five matches and leaves Riga searching for answers. The hosts have kept their place in the upper half, while the visitors face a run of games that will test their resolve. One mistake ends it in this league, and Riga made too many.
