Ljungblom Comes Alive For MoDo

Lina Ljungblom scored a hat trick, highlighting a lopsided win in SDHL action for MoDo, while Frolunda, Brynas, and Lulea remained neck and neck for top spot in the league.

Lina Ljungblom had the eyes of the world on her after the 21-year-old Swedish forward became the 90th overall pick in the PWHL Draft this year. She was the youngest player chosen in the PWHL Draft, and the only European currently under contract selected.

After catching the attention of the PWHL and leading Sweden in scoring with seven goals and 10 points in seven games at the 2023 World Championships, expectations were sky high for the forward. That's why when Ljungblom opened her 2023-2024 SDHL season with only a single assist in three games, there was reason for concern.

Ljungblom answered those concerns Friday scoring a hat trick for MoDo in a 9-0 shellacking of AIK. Adela Sapovalivova continued her strong campaign for MoDo adding another two points to her season total, while Mira Hallin also scored a pair. 

Hanna Olsson scored a hat trick for Frolunda who continued to put the league on notice beating Leksands 5-4 in a shootout. Michelle Karvinen scored the shootout winner for Frolunda, but it was Olsson's heroics, including scoring the game tying goal with only 15 seconds remaining in regulation that tipped the scales. Stephanie Neatby made 38 saves in the win.

Brynas needed overtime to beat HV71 in a 4-3 thriller. After entering the third period tied 0-0, the two teams traded goals throughout the frame. In extra time, Hanna Thuvik scored her fourth of the season and second of the game to hand Brynas the win. Stella Lindell also picked up a goal and an assist for Brynas while Maja Nylén-Persson and Jenniina Nylund each had a pair of helpers in the win.

When you're the five-time reigning league champions you're expect to keep winning, and Lulea continues to do just that. Their latest victim was SDE who was without offensive leader Naomi Rogge who was assessed a three game suspension in her last game. Lulea's Finnish influence continued to power the team as Jenna Pirttijärvi scored twice, while Vivvi Vainikka had a goal and an assist, and Petra Nieminen and Noora Tulus each recorded a pair of helpers in the 6-3 win.