Stellar goaltending dominated the first SHL final between Skellefteå and Rögle, with the lone goal coming from Linus Lindström with just minutes remaining.
– Deciding the game so close to the end is an incredible feeling, Lindström told SVT Sport.
Despite a flurry of scoring chances, the opening game saw a tense wait for a breakthrough. Both teams squandered opportunities on open nets, with Skellefteå's Elias Salomonsson even coming close to an own-goal during a Rögle power play. The deadlock remained unbroken until the third period.
Linus Lindström emerged as the hero with just over four minutes left. After recovering from a collision, he regained possession and buried the rebound to secure the decisive goal.
– Arvid made a great pass, and I had to finish it, Lindström explained.
This solitary strike proved to be the difference-maker, handing Skellefteå a narrow 1-0 victory and breaking Rögle's ten-game playoff winning streak.
– It's a fantastic feeling, said Lindström.
– The first game is all about feeling out the opponent. Winning is definitely a bonus.
However, Skellefteå goalie Linus Söderström acknowledged room for improvement.
We were not at our bestl, he admitted to SVT Sport.
– I think Rögle was the stronger team overall.
This win marks Skellefteå's first home victory in a final since their championship season in 2014, finally ending a drought that spanned four final appearances.