Modo Hockey secured a 4-2 victory over AIK in game three of their SHL quarterfinal series at Hovet, advancing to a 3-0 lead. Goaltender Adam Werner made a crucial glove save on an open-net shot from Christoffer Björk. The teams face a potentially decisive game four on Sunday afternoon.
Modo Hockey has surged ahead in the SHL playoffs, winning game three 4-2 away at AIK's Hovet arena to lead the quarterfinal series 3-0. The match began with Modo taking a 1-0 lead after just over seven minutes through Kyle Topping's deflection, which set a tone of control despite AIK's energetic start backed by a full crowd including many Modo supporters. AIK pushed hard in the second period but struggled to test Werner effectively, highlighted by his spectacular airborne glove save on Björk's open goal—a moment Björk played his best since returning from knee injury but without reward. Early in the third, Ludwig Blomstrand tied it 1-1 with help from Simon Åkerström and Nikodemus Wernquist. Modo responded swiftly, as their energy line of Sebastian Ohlsson, Jacob Bjerselius, and Oscar Pettersson scored 2-1 less than two minutes later. Tyler Kelleher's line extended the lead to 3-1, AIK pulled to 3-2, and Modo's energy line sealed 4-2 into an empty net. Modo goalie Adam Werner credited the improved stability: “We have played very stably backwards and now we have managed to play a few matches in a row. It has been very up and down [before].” He added on playoff motivation, “It’s damn much more fun to play these matches than a match in December. There’s nothing to beat around the bush with.” Analyst Andreas Hanson noted Modo’s four lines all contributing goals, a key edge, while AIK’s adjustments came too late amid absences like Oliver Johansson. AIK staged a 0-3 comeback against Björklöven last playoffs but faces steep odds now.
