Latvian's power-play goal sends Saryarqa into Kazakhstan Cup final
A Latvian forward's power-play goal helped Karaganda's Saryarqa secure a spot in the Kazakhstan Cup final, where they will face Oskemen's Torpedo.
In the semifinal of the Kazakhstan Cup, Karaganda's hockey club Saryarqa booked its place in the final, where it will meet Oskemen (Ust-Kamenogorsk) side Torpedo. A Latvian forward played a key role in the victory, scoring a power-play goal in the 31st minute to put his team ahead 1:0.
After that goal, Saryarqa built a commanding 3:0 lead, though opponent Aktobe managed to pull back two goals. Despite the comeback attempt, Karaganda held on and secured its place in the championship final.
Oskemen's Torpedo reached the final by defeating Rudny's Gornyak 5:2 in their own semifinal matchup.
About the player
The Latvian forward is 33 years old and is about to begin his tenth season with Saryarqa. He has represented Latvia at the top-level World Championships in 2016 and 2018. Last season he returned to the Karaganda club after stints with Kokshetau's Arlan and Tashkent's Humo.
A three-time Kazakhstan champion, he has recorded 46 points (8 goals, 38 assists) in 61 games this season, with a plus-minus rating of +30, a major contribution to the team's run to the final.
