Having clawed the lead away from long-time leaders Inter Turku last month, a draw and a defeat before the international break had seen Ilves relinquish first place to KuPS, who had put together and perfectly-timed run of the three consecutive wins.
Yet the first-half seemed to suggest the international window had played its part in transforming both sides' form, as the home side dominated the first half in terms of shots and possession, but did not produce enough to test visiting goalkeeper Aatu Hakala.
But that all changed nine minutes into the second half when Tatu Miettunen set up Maksim Stjopin to cut inside from the right and curl the ball past the goalkeeper to put Ilves in front with his second goal in his last three appearances.
It took conceding to bring the best out of the Kuopio side, who were then much more creative going forward, and their endeavour was rewarded nine minutes from time when Otto Ruoppi found Piotr Parzyszek, who scored for the seventh time in KuPS' last eight in all competitions.
Both sides had opportunities for a late winner, but eventually had to settle for a share of the spoils. The 1-1 draw keeps KuPS a point clear and sees their unbeaten run extend to four matches. Ilves, meanwhile, are now three without a win.
The Tampere side will also drop to third if Inter Turku beat them on Sunday, while KuPS will be aiming to go further clear as they take on HJK the same day.