Marcus ”Lilliz” Nilsson is preparing to face his former club Färjestad in a home fixture with Björklöven after initially joining the Allsvenskan team in spring 2024 specifically to avoid playing against the Karlstad side. Following seven successful seasons with Färjestad, the 35-year-old forward moved to Björklöven when he did not receive a new contract, unable to bring himself to compete against his former team. However, after Björklöven secured promotion to the top tier after 25 years, the matchup became unavoidable.
Overcoming the Reluctance to Face Färjestad
Instead, he chose Björklöven in hockeyallsvenskan to sidestep any potential meetings with the Värmland organization. Now that Björklöven has climbed back to the SHL after 25 years, that scenario is a reality for the veteran forward.
”It was then and there that I didn’t want to play against Färjestad. Now we have done something good with Björklöven and a few years have passed.
Lingering Friendships and On-Ice Rivalries
Despite changing clubs, Nilsson maintains daily contact with several former teammates still playing for Färjestad, including Linus Johansson and Joakim Nygård. The group has exchanged friendly banter in anticipation of the upcoming clash on the ice, particularly regarding special teams play.
”It is clear that it will be something very special for me. I had many fine years in Färjestad. I have daily contact with several in the team still. We have talked and teased a lot about this match. Above all with Linus Johansson and Joakim Nygård. We will meet in powerplay. I look forward to spinning them up,” Nilsson stated.
Björklöven’s Start to the SHL Season
Björklöven enters the home fixture following two initial away victories in the SHL. The team opened with a 3–0 shutout against Djurgården, followed by a 4–3 overtime win against Örebro.
”It is a nice feeling to have started with two wins. In such a tough league, it applies to keep up and get a good start. Now we look forward to coming home and playing in front of our fans. It will be really good drag in the barn,” Nilsson said.
Did you know?
The upcoming matchup carries historical weight, serving as a direct replay of the 1987 SM-final when Björklöven claimed their lone Swedish championship gold medal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Marcus ”Lilliz” Nilsson leave Färjestad?
Nilsson left Färjestad in the spring of 2024 after seven seasons when he did not receive a new contract from the club.
Why did Nilsson initially join Björklöven?
He signed with Björklöven in hockeyallsvenskan specifically because his strong attachment to Färjestad made him reluctant to play against them for another SHL team.
How has Björklöven performed at the start of the SHL season?
Björklöven won their first two away fixtures of the season, defeating Djurgården 3–0 and securing a 4–3 victory in overtime against Örebro.
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