It was a night of high drama as the third match unfolded in Ängelholm. The third period, in particular, was a rollercoaster of emotions. AIK managed to take the lead three times, each time weathering a Rögle fightback, ultimately securing a thrilling 3-2 victory. This puts them ahead in the final series 2-1.
Ängelholm boasts a rich history in hockey, but rarely has the sport seen such intensity within the Catena Arena as witnessed in this final. The atmosphere crackled with anticipation, the green and white sea of Rögle fans creating a deafening roar that rivaled even the legendary Hovet crowd. Fueled by their passionate supporters, Rögle once again made their presence felt on the ice.
AIK, opting for a more defensive strategy, struggled to maintain sustained attacking pressure. Despite this, they managed to carve out some dangerous scoring opportunities. Their opening goal, however, came about through a Rögle mistake. Pär Lindholm capitalized brilliantly, forcing the puck in with his right foot. Rögle responded almost immediately, Albin Sundsvik capitalizing on a defensive lapse by Elias Salomonsson and Filip Sandberg to level the score at 1-1.
The second period saw a reversal of roles. AIK took control, generating the better chances and having two powerplay opportunities. However, Christoffer Rifalk in the Rögle goal remained unfazed, replicating his impressive form throughout the playoffs.
While Rögle started the third period strongly, AIK weathered the storm and gradually established a foothold, creating longer attacking sequences. Their persistence paid off in the sixth minute when Arvid Lundberg, one of the standout defensemen in the playoffs, unleashed a shot from a tight angle that found the net, showcasing his offensive prowess.
Rögle responded again through Anton Bengtsson, but AIK wouldn't be denied. Max Lindholm emerged as the hero, coolly converting a penalty to regain the lead at 3-2. AIK successfully defended a late Rögle powerplay to secure a crucial victory. The series now shifts back to Ängelholm for game four on Saturday. Expect more drama.
MATCH FACTS
SM-final
Match 3 of 7
Rögle BK–Skellefteå AIK 2–3 (1–1, 0–0, 1–3)
Goals: 0–1 (14.34) Pär Lindholm, 1–1 (14.43) Albin Sundsvik, 1–2 (45.21) Arvid Lundberg (Anton Heikkinen, Elias Salomonsson), 2–2 (54.52) Anton Bengtsson (Ludvig Claesson), 2-3 (56.53) Max Lindholm, spel fem mot fyra.
Attendance: 6310 (sold out)
AIK lead 2–1.