Mar 21 • 08:58 UTC 🇫🇮 Finland Iltalehti

HIFK star targeted by foul play – SM-liiga issues suspension ruling

Hugo Gallet of KalPa has been provisionally suspended by the SM-liiga for an illegal elbow to the head of HIFK's Daniel Mäkiaho during a playoff game.

The SM-liiga's disciplinary delegation has imposed a provisional suspension on KalPa defender Hugo Gallet following an incident in the playoff match against HIFK on Friday. The suspension is a response to Gallet's elbowing of HIFK forward Daniel Mäkiaho, which has been deemed a foul play under rule 48 pertaining to illegal hits to the head. Gallet was given a 5+20-minute penalty for his actions during the game.

The incident was reviewed by the situation room, and according to the chief video referee, Gallet's actions warranted disciplinary measures due to the manner in which he extended his elbow towards Mäkiaho's head and face area. The ruling clearly outlined that there was no other contact between the players at the time of the tackle, emphasizing the nature of the foul. As the playoff series continues, Gallet's provisional suspension reflects the league's commitment to player safety and maintaining fair play during critical matchups.

As KalPa and HIFK are set to face off again on Saturday in Kuopio, the temporary suspension allows the league to investigate the incident further while keeping the competitive integrity of the series intact. This ruling could have significant implications for both teams as they navigate the tightly contested playoff series, affecting player lineups and strategies moving forward.

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