Jagne’s Mariehamn held while Savage’s HJK defeated

Gambian Saihou Jagne saw 59 minutes of play for his new Finnish Veikkausliiga [top tier] side IFK Mariehamn as they were unable to capitalize on a late sending-off in their draw against visiting Kuopion Palloseura [KuPS].

Despite Jagne’s Mariehamn holding the early advantage, KuPS were first on the board after 13 minutes as New Zealander midfielder Chris James found Vjatseslav Zahovaiko in the middle of the penalty area for a low shot to the corner.

The lead was short-lived, with Petteri Forsell pulling the hosts even five minutes later with a left-footed strike. After the quick start, the game slowly began to lose pace, and the only late excitement came with eight minutes left as Zahovaiko was given his marching orders after drawing a second yellow card for a reckless kick to the chest of Mika Niskala.

Mariehamn, however, were unable to seize hold of the advantage, coming excruciatingly close in the final few minutes, and had to settle for the draw. Jagne’s Mariehamn now have a point from their first two games, and will look to notch their first win when they visit FC Haka.

In the days other game, Turun Palloseura [TPS] defeated Demba Savage’s new team HJK Helsinki 3-1 at the Paavo Nurmi Stadion thanks to goals from Mika Ääritalo, Toni Kolehmainen and Aleksi Ristola while Joel Perovuo got the consolation for HJK. Savage and his team host FF Jaro next at the Sonera Stadium.