Djurgården is set to host Färjestad on Tuesday at Hovet, seeking revenge after a 5-3 loss in Karlstad on Saturday. The forward Mathias Emilio Pettersen returns from suspension, while Jesse Ylönen sits out due to his own ban, amid preparations overshadowed by a post-match assault on a Färjestad youth player.
The rivalry between Djurgården and Färjestad intensified with Saturday's clash at Löfbergs Arena in Karlstad, where 8,250 fans watched Färjestad secure a 5-3 victory. Djurgården trailed 4-1 before mounting a comeback, but Ylönen's match penalty halted their momentum, leading to a two-match suspension.
Pettersen, sidelined for three SHL games after a November 13 incident against Luleå that resulted in a five-minute penalty, match penalty, and fine over 18,000 SEK, is eager to return. 'Väldigt glad att få spela. Det gläder mig,' he told Hockeynews after Monday's training. He will line up with center Marcus Krüger and Anton Frondell, bringing energy after two goals and six assists in 18 games this season.
Coach Robert Kimby is cryptic about goalkeeper choices, hinting at a possible SHL debut for recent signing Daniel Marmenlind, who has observed recent games from the bench. 'Vi får se imorgon,' Kimby said, balancing rest for Magnus Hellberg ahead of upcoming road games.
David Blomgren missed Monday's training but is expected to play. The session featured lines like Joe Snively–Jacob Josefson–Charles Hudon and Victor Eklund–Håvard Salsten–Albin Grewe.
Off the ice, tensions linger from an assault on an under-15 Färjestad youth player after the game, linked to Djurgården supporters. The player was hospitalized, and the charge escalated to grievous assault. Police seek a female witness who assisted. Djurgården's VD Matthias Sånemyr expressed sorrow: 'Vi är så himla ledsna att det har hänt. Att röra sig runt en idrottsarena ska vara tryggt för alla.' The club is in dialogue with groups like Järnkaminerna and cooperating with authorities, hoping it won't impact Tuesday's match.
Färjestad's VD Stefan Larsson prioritized the player's health and family support. Pettersen acknowledged the rivalry: 'De är rivaler,' expecting another tough battle like a playoff game.
