Sheffield Steeldogs returned from Peterborough with the tie finely poised after a hard-fought 4-4 draw against the Phantoms in the first leg of the Cup semi-final.
The Steeldogs made an excellent start on the road, striking twice inside the opening nine minutes. CJ Garcia opened the scoring at 6:59, finishing a flowing move set up by Bair Gendunov and Walker Sommer. Just under two minutes later, Liam Steele doubled the lead, converting after good work from Cole Shudra and Kyle Watson.
Peterborough responded early in the second period, pulling a goal back through Dillon Lawrence at 20:35 to shift momentum.
The Phantoms carried that momentum and turned the game around. A power-play goal from Cameron Hough levelled the scores before Luke Ferrara struck twice in quick succession, giving the hosts a 4-2 advantage.
Sheffield showed resilience and clawed their way back into the contest. Kyle Watson reduced the deficit at 31:18, assisted by Shudra, before Ferrara scored shortly afterwards to restore Peterborough’s two-goal cushion.
The Steeldogs saved their biggest moment for the third period. Killing off a penalty, Cole Shudra struck short-handed at 46:33, with Tim Smith providing the assist to bring Sheffield back level at 4-4.
Both sides pushed for a late winner, but neither could find a decisive breakthrough, leaving the semi-final finely balanced heading into the second leg.
The result sets up a thrilling return fixture, with everything still to play for as Sheffield look to book their place in the Cup final. Book your tickets for next Wednesdays Second Leg Fixture HERE.
Cup Semi-Final – First Leg
Peterborough Phantoms 4-4 Sheffield Steeldogs
