Haka claim Finnish crown
Saturday, September 18, 2004
Article summary
FC Haka were crowned Finnish Veikkausliiga champions after a 4-3 victory over Myllykosken Pallo-47.
Article body
Unbeaten run
Haka, who will now enter the 2005/06 UEFA Champions League qualifying rounds, had been in the driving seat in the Veikkausliiga since early summer and today's victory extended their unbeaten run to 13 matches. It is Haka's first title since 2000, the year the Valkeakoski club completed a hat-trick of successes.
Thrilling conclusion
It was a thrilling conclusion to their title challenge. With the teams drawing 2-2 at half-time, Haka supporters had to wait until the 77th minute for their side to go 3-2 ahead through Toni Lehtinen, whose goal looked like clinching them the title.
Ristilä winner
Back came MyPa to equalise through Toni Huttunen in 81th minute, however, and put the celebrations on hold. But five minutes from time, Sami Ristilä restored Haka's advantage from the penalty spot and the title was theirs.
