Tue 27 Dec 2022 - 7:19PM

ELITE LEAGUE: PANTHERS 1-5 STEELERS

The Nottingham Panthers were beaten 5-1 at home by Sheffield Steelers in the Viaplay Elite League.

Panthers were once again without Duggie Lagrone and Craig Moore, while Alex Dubeau got the start in goal with Luca Sheldon as back-up.

No goals in opening first period
Sheffield made a fast start with Brandon Whistle shooting just wide, Daniel Ciampini hitting the post from a tight angle and Mason Mitchell forcing a good save out of Dubeau.

At the other end, Luke Ferrara and Mike Hammond went close for the Panthers.

Steelers lead by two after Panthers have goal disallowed
Panthers had the early chances in the second period as Matthew Myers was denied by Matt Greenfield, while JC Brassard, Fabrizio Ricci and Mike Hammond also had shots saved.

Nottingham had the momentum but a dramatic three minutes changed the whole course of the game.

After Dubeau, who had been out of position, flung himself to make a wonder save from Ciampini, Panthers thought they'd taken the lead after Matthew Myers netted after great work from David Levin, but the goal was ruled out for goaltender infererence (32:26).

Panthers made a video challenge but the decision was not overturned and Martin Latal scored top-shelf at the backdoor on the resutling powerplay (34:31) and a minute later, Daniel Ciampini converted a Steelers two-on-one break (35:31).

Welychka scores for Panthers but Steelers ease to victory
Latal scored his second, scooping home a lose puck on his backhand (46:30) as Steelers went 3-0 ahead.

A blast from the left circle by Brett Welychka (49:16) closed the gap, but Sheffield hit back within 49 seconds to squash any hopes of a Panthers comeback.

Ciampini scored his second, pouncing on a giveaway by Dubeau (50:05) before completing his hat-trick on the breakaway (52:40).

Blaze visit Nottingham on New Year's Eve
Panthers are back in action on New Year's Eve as Coventry Blaze visit the Motorpoint Arena (4pm).

Just under 500 tickets remain so you are advised to purchase them as soon as possible.

Click here to buy Panthers tickets.