KAZAN, Russia — Dinamo Riga have scored a valuable away win, defeating Ak Bars 3-1.

After a week off, the KHL returned this evening, with a number of games taking place across Russia. The time away looked to have benefited Dinamo Riga who played the complete game this evening. Edgars Masaļskis continued his recent good form in goal, while Marcel Hossa remained with the league’s top goal-scorers adding another two to his tally.

Masaļskis’ fine form in goal has been timely with the Winter Olympics bearing down. His form will be paramount to the success of Latvia’s ice hockey team. Again, it was only late in the game with Dinamo Riga looking comfortable that he let his fortress be penetrated.

As the clock wound down on the first period, Lauris Dārziņš caught the Ak Bars goalie napping, sending the puck into the back of the net from just inside the third.

Dinamo Riga’s second came early in the second period. Some sloppy passing from Ak bars was pounced upon by Ģirts Ankipāns who skated off down the ice. His shot was blocked by the goalie, but his failure to secure the puck was costly with Hossa snaring on the lose puck, sending past a scrambling goalie.

Danis Zaripov finally got the home side on the score-sheet in the eighth minute but resolute Dinamo Riga defense put to rest any thoughts of a late comeback.

Hossa was on hand to produce the final blow with seven seconds left to stretch the margin back out to two.

It was a staunch performance by Dinamo Riga who will now travel to Nizhnekamsk to take on Neftehimik, seeking what has been a rare occurrence this season: back-to-back victories.