Game Review 21.10.12

After playing their best game of the season so far, the Cardiff Devils grabbed those all important two points, defeating the Nottingham Panthers 2-1 last night at the BBT.  Having played hard but been disappointed on Friday, after a devastating challenge cup loss to the Sheffield Steelers, the Devils were desperately in need of a confidence boost and this nail-biting comeback victory was just what the doctor ordered!

  It was a nervous sixty minutes for both sides, playing a tight, physical game.  Powerful hits were being thrown from each side of the blue line, with some pushing and shoving being thrown in as well.  Play was even, with neither net minder having to face predominately more shots, and both were having a fantastic game and held off until the end of the period, the score still tied at 0-0.

  Panthers were quickly off the mark in the second, with David Clarke sending the puck over Phil Osaer's right shoulder to give the visitors the lead.  Both teams had several chances but Kowalski and Osaer were back on top form and nothing was going through.  With a few penalties being traded back and forth, the period finished 1-0 Panthers.

  Penalties played a big part in the final period.  With both of the Cardiff goals coming on the power play, from powerhouse forward Max Birbraer, the Devils definitely used the man advantage well.  Cardiff managed to hold their lead into the final few minutes, when Nottingham pull Kowalski for an extra attacker, also using a timeout to formulate a plan of attack.  Unfortunately for the northern side, Cardiff were determined and were not letting the puck anywhere near the back of the net.  End of the game: 2-1 Cardiff.

  With the Devils now raring to go with new-found-confidence, they will be looking ahead to Thursday, when the Dundee Stars come to town.  Puck drop is at 7:30pm, make sure you get down to the BBT to support the welsh side!  Lets Go Devils!

Devils 2 - 1 Panthers - Final

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