Martins Dzierkals was one of three AIK scorers in the crucial second period.
A packed Skellefteå Kraft Arena erupted in cheers as Jonathan Johnson gave the home side a dream start. He skillfully weaved past a Frölunda defender before unleashing a shot that found the top corner of the net.
Energized by the early goal and the electric atmosphere, AIK continued to press in the first period. Their dominance paid off just six minutes later when Linus Lindström deflected a shot to make it 2-0. This score held until the first intermission.
The second period was a whirlwind of activity. Frölunda came back into the game with a goal to make it 2-2. However, AIK quickly responded with a flurry of goals. Malte Strömwall equalized for Frölunda, but Zeb Forsfjäll restored AIK's lead just six minutes later. The scoring continued as Martins Dzierkals added another, brilliantly-taken goal for AIK, putting them 4-2 ahead and forcing Frölunda to switch goaltenders.
The third period was scrappy and ill-tempered but AIK held on to their lead quite comfortably and will approach Monday's second semi-final game with confidence.
Match facts
Skellefteå AIK–Frölunda 5–2 (2–0, 3–2, 0–0)
Goals: 1–0 (2.37) Jonathan Johnson (A. Johnson, Sikura), 2–0 (8.27) Linus Lindström (Salomonsson, M. Lindholm), 2–1 (24.49) Nicklas Lasu (Tömmernes, Born), 2–2 (28.01) Malte Strömwall (Edstrom, Friberg), 3–2 (29.09) Rickard Hugg, 4–2 (30.08) Martins Dzierkals (Stenman, M. Forsfjäll), 5–2 (33.59) Zeb Forsfjäll (Robertsson, A. Johnson).
Shots on goal: 22–32.
Penalty minutes: 12–6.