The Puck Stop Sheffield Steeldogs made an impressive start to their playoff campaign with a strong opening-night victory over the Peterborough Phantoms.
The Steeldogs came out with confidence and intensity, clearly the better side throughout the first period. Their early pressure paid off just one minute into the game, as Kyle Watson opened the scoring to give the hosts a 1-0 lead heading into the first intermission.
They carried that momentum into the second period, doubling their advantage at 30:40 through Nathan Ripley. The Phantoms responded with a goal from Zaine McKenzie, whose blue-line effort took a deflection off a Steeldogs player and beat Parker in net. Despite the setback, the Steeldogs maintained their lead, going into the second break ahead 2-1.
The third period was far more evenly contested, with both teams creating quality chances. However, both goaltenders stood firm, producing key saves to keep their sides in the game. In the closing moments, Peterborough pulled Lavigne for the extra attacker at 59:19, but Bair Gendunov capitalised with an empty-net goal at 59:53 to secure the victory for the Steeldogs.
A confident performance sees the Steeldogs take an early advantage in Group A.
Game 3 – Friday 3rd April vs Swindon Wildcats | 7:30pm [H]
- Match Night Tickets –> Steeldogs Vs Wildcats
- Match Night Livestream –> Watch live on Steeldogs TV
Game 4 – Saturday 4th April vs Swindon Wildcats | 6:30pm [A]