There are usually even matches when Luleå and Frölunda play, and that’s what we just got to witness this evening.
After a scoreless first period, things really loosened up in the second. Luleå got off to a dream start and 30 seconds in, Erik Gustavsson was numerically superior and scored 1-0.
But visiting Frölunda continued to press and just over seven minutes later, Filip Johansson scored the equaliser, thanks in large part to Patrik Carlsson and Linus Nässén, who were in front of the box. And in the middle of the period, Fröunda’s turnaround was a fact. Again it was a shot from the blue line which this time was headed in via Joel Lundqvist.
But the black-clad home team would rise. Jesper Sellgren, who didn’t have many options, managed to get a shot that put Lasse Johansson in the goal and 2-2 on the scoreboard.
For a long time it looked as if 2-2 would hold until the third period. But no – Isac Brännström neatly turned away a defender before pushing the puck into the roof of the net and 3-2 Luleå with 40 seconds left.
Three minutes into the final period came the next goal. The puck bounces and stays and the visitors manage to keep the puck in the offensive zone, it ends up with Petteri Lindbohm who sends it towards the goal. And guess what? Traffic in front of goal of course and 3-3 which also stood the game out.
“Exactly how you want a decisive match to be”
After a goalless extra time, a penalty decision followed that went all the way to penalties. Then Brendan Shinnimin stepped forward and sent Luleå to the CHL final. First final since 2014/2015 for the norrbottings. Heavy for most of the champions Frölunda. (4)
– It was a hell of a match. This is exactly how you want a decisive match to be. It was a good match. Now we have a chance to win the championship. We will win for our fans, says Shinnimin.
In the final, you meet either Zug or Tappara and the match will be played on February 18 in Luleå. SVT broadcasts.
