After a scoreless first period, the second SM final between Skellefteå AIK and Rögle BK turned into a tight battle. While the home team struggled initially, a power play in the second period saw them create several scoring chances.
However, their momentum was halted by a controversial late and high hit by Rögle's Daniel Zaar on captain, Jonathan Pudas, who had to leave the game with an apparent head injury. Zaar clearly hit Pudas late and high with his left arm and shoulder powering into Pudas's head and smashing AIK's captain into the boards. Zaar escaped punishment for the challenge.
Rögle capitalized on the disruption, scoring midway through the third period thanks to Lian Bichsel. Shortly after, AIK suffered another blow when Dylan Sikura went down with an injury after a collision with Andreas Johnson.
Despite a late push with an empty net in the final minutes, Skellefteå AIK couldn't find the equalizer. The game ended 1-0 for Rögle, tying the series 1-1 before it moves to Ängelholm for game three.
Match facts
Skellefteå AIK – Rögle BK 0–1 (0–0, 0–0, 0–1)
SM-final 2:7
Goal: 0–1 (50.30) Lian Bichsel (Abols).
Shots: 27–22 (5–9, 10–6, 6–12).
Penalty minutes: 4–4 (2–4, 2–0, 0–0).
Attendance: 5 801 (sold out).
Referees: Tobias Björk, Daniel Eriksson.