Morozov’s millennium
Alexei Morozov recorded the 1,000th point of his career to get the winner for Ak Bars at Metallurg Novokuznetsk. The forward struck on 45:42, sweeping round the face-off circle before launching a long-range shot past Tyson Sexsmith. Morozov reached his landmark in his 1,305th career appearance.
Ak Bars came from behind to win thanks to a pair of quick goals early in the third period. Konstantin Korneyev’s powerplay goal cancelled out Brent Sopel’s early opener for the hosts.
CSKA holds on for win
CSKA Moscow held on for a 3-2 win at Slovan Bratislava, despite a fight back from the home side. The Army Men had two assists from Alexander Radulov as they took control in the early stages. Yakov Rylov got the eventual game-winner, but the Slovak side ensured a tense finish after Miroslav Satan made it a one-goal game just before the half-way mark. However, the away team’s defense held firm in the third period, allowing just five shots on Rastislav Stana’s goal.
Around the league
Two goals from Alexander Osipov led Amur Khabarovsk to 5-2 win over Salavat Yulaev. The Far East side snapped a three-game losing streak, while Osipov’s double made him the highest-scoring defenseman in the KHL this season.
Neftekhimik Nizhnekamsk earned a thrilling 5-4 win at Sibir with just nine seconds left to play. Nail Yakupov got the decisive goal, completing his team’s recovery from 1-3. Konstantin Glazachev scored twice for Sibir.
Maxim Yakutsenya got the game-winner for Traktor Chelyabinsk in a 5-3 success at Dinamo Riga. A flurry of goals early in the third period save Dinamo’s 2-1 second-period lead turned into a 4-3 lead when Yakutseniya scored on 45:38.
