Cardiff Devils @ Nottingham Panthers (L) 15/11/2014, Cardiff Devils vs Dundee Stars (L) 16/11/2014

Devils 3, Panthers 2 - SO Final

Devils 5, Stars 4 - Final

Hello, hello!

Our boys went North and back this weekend, as they faced Nottingham in the NIC on Saturday night before travelling home to square up against the Stars on Sunday.  It has definitely been a tense weekend to be a Devils’ fan but the guys pulled it out of the bag and have rewarded us with four points!

Saturday night saw the return of Chris Culligan, who missed last weekend’s home game against the Belfast Giants, and Joey Martin, who missed the entire weekend due to illness.  The only Devil still missing from the line-up in Carl Hudson, out with a hand injury – which we all hope is healing nicely!

The numbers show a relatively calm game in the NIC, both sides scoring two goals a piece and only accumulating 14 PIMs between them throughout the entire 65 minutes of play! 

Bruce Graham opened the scoring for the home side with a powerplay goal at 14:50, with Joey Haddad in the box for holding.  But the visitors fought back with a goal of their own, from MOM Brent Walton at 18:37.

Walton has been on fire recently, picking up the man of the match award for both games this weekend.  With 10 goals and 11 assists (21 points), Walton leads the Devils in scoring in all competitions.  Soft hands and sharp shooting make this guy one to watch – even if he’s slightly shorter than the opposition!

And, on a side note, did you see Brent and his little boy on the ice last Sunday? Can you say adorable?!  Swoon!  But I digress….

The Devils’ no. 18 also helped himself to his second goal of the evening just three minutes into the third period.  The goal, assisted by no. 80 Jesse Mychan, brought the Devils level on the scoreboard, after Panthers’ captain David Clarke put his side ahead just after the halfway point in the second.

With the score tied at two a piece, the NIC was definitely a very tense place to be for the final 10 minutes of the game…. You could cut the tension with a skate blade!  But alas, both Ben Bowns and Mattias Modig (standing in for Craig Kowalski while he’s out with an injury) were standing on their heads to keep the score level and regulation finished with no further goals.

Off into overtime we went, and despite effort after effort for both sides, the score remained level; the shootout would decide who got that all important extra point.

Up first for the Devils was shootout wiz Jake Morrisette.  It has been said by many this year (even Coventry commentators!) that Jake is the go-to guy for shootouts and he demonstrate why perfectly on Saturday night, slotting the puck past Modig and giving his side a 1-0 as Bruce Graham came up to bat.

Unfortunately for Panthers’ fans, Graham was no match for Bowns and things only got worse for the home side as Joey Martin showed their team how it was done.

With the Devils up 2-0, Chris Lawrence had to score to keep his side in the game – which is exactly what he did.  Brent Walton missed his shot and it was all on the shoulders of Evan Mosey to force another round of shots.

But Benny Boy stood tall and carried us home with that extra point!

The Dundee Stars were in town on Sunday night, lead by captain and former-devil Chris Blight.  Also coming home to the BBT was Brad Plumton, a fan favourite from his time in the Bay, and Bari McKenzie. 

Despite currently sitting bottom of the league, with only two wins in twelve (before last night’s game), the Stars came out flying.  Their forecheck was strong, constantly chasing down any opportunity in the Devils’ zone – resulting in an early goal!  John Mitchell, an American with extensive AHL experience, added the Stars’ first goal after just a minute and eleven seconds – demonstrating that the visiting team were not going to roll over.

But coming into the BBT is tough – small ice pad, big guys, it’s always going to be a little rough.  Not twenty seconds after they got on the scoreboard, the Stars wee in the box, Igor Gongalsky being called for tripping.  With a man short, they did well to keep the lead, especially with guys like Trevor Hendrikx hitting anything that moved!

In fact, the fan favourite with the seventies’ tache (check out his movember effort if you haven’t had the pleasure yet, it’s brilliant!) found himself in the box a couple of times (in the first period alone) for roughing up the opposition!

On the plus, the main man of the period was definitely, although not surprisingly, Brent Walton!  Added his third goal of the weekend, the no. 18 brought the score level with just over five minutes left before the break.

He then went on to be called for clipping with only 25 seconds remaining… I have to be honest; I had to look this one up.  This is what Wikipedia had to say: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clipping_(ice_hockey). 

But into the second period we go, with the Devils’ on the penalty kill for a minute and thirty-five.  The special teams have been doing extremely well this year and our penalty kill successfully fought off the Scottish advantage.

While this an amazing feat, it is definitely the powerplay that deserves special mention, especially the Marsh-Lord-Walton-Morrisette-Martin unit!  For the first two Devils’ goals, both on the powerplay (2^nd at 28:13, scored by Joey Martin), this unit pushed the Stars to the limit, creating chance after chance.

Unfortunately, just two minutes later, Dundee managed not one, but two quick goals of their own from Shane Lust and Jeff Hutchins to push the visitors ahead going into the third period.

This game, however, was not just about scoring.  From the very beginning, the game had a tension surrounding it that you would expect when playing the Arena teams – it was the kind of atmosphere we welcomed (and I use the term loosely) Belfast with last weekend!

Now I can’t think of anything that might have sparked this animosity, whether it be the Stars frustration after a disappointing loss the night before or what, but everyone came out swinging and carried on for the entirety of the game!

Last weekend we were treated to Josh Batch showing Adam Keefe how we tango; this week, it was Hendrikx’ turn!  Early in the first, Trevor went toe to toe with James Isaacs as he came off the bench – fists getting acquainted as they tangled in a line change.  Ref Matt Thompson, in his second appearance at the BBT this season, seemed to be watching a different altercation though, as he assessed the culprits roughing penalties.

Later on, in the second period, we were treated to a ‘handbag convention’ – quote courtesy of the MNL – before Hendrikx heavily persuaded Brad Plumton to take a spin.  While this round seemed more tame than Trevor’s opening dance, possibly because Plumton didn’t see too involved until he had Hendrikx’ fist in his face, Thompson assessed the guys for five minute majors and play continued.

From gloves off to in the glove, both goaltenders had a good night on Sunday.  While Marc Cheverie had to go fishing five times throughout the course of the game, he also had a fantastic second period – which could be reason for a tired third.  Throughout the second twenty-minute period, Marc Cheverie faced 22 (!) Devils’ shots and only let one passed him!  I’d say he either deserves a hand, or we need to practise our accuracy…. Probably both.

But fluster he did, and the Devils’ were able to sneak three goals passed the Canadian tender, the first while on the powerplay with Plumton in the box for interference.

While the Stars were able to add a fourth to their tally early on in the third, the Devils’ managed to hold them off and treated the crowd to a 5-4 regulation win.

Four points in the bag this weekend, we now look ahead to next week.  Saturday sees a(nother) trip up to the SkyDome, to take on the Coventry Blaze.  Red Army Travel is running a bus up, but seats are limited so make sure you secure your place quickly.

Sunday sees not only the Edinburgh Capitals coming to town, but also the retirement of Jason Stone’s jersey to the (temporary) rafters.  You can get your tickets online or by calling the box office, so get yourself down to the Tent to honour a Devils’ legend!

See you soon, Devils’ fans!  Let’s Go Devils!

(As a side note, I’d like to say thank you to everyone who reads every week – I have just reached 4000 views!  So thank you very much!!!!)

A Weekend To Remember - Cardiff Devils vs Nottingham Panthers (L) 02/11/2014

Hello from the middle of the Atlantic Ocean!!

It was has definitely been a weekend to remember, for me at least.  Four flights, two hockey games, a basketball game and a 26.2-mile run (not that I did any running of course!) - all in the space of four days!

Friday morning saw an earlier start as I travelled down from Hereford to London in time for my 13:15 flight to New York City.  A good friend of mine ran the NYC Marathon yesterday, smashing her personal best.  She is currently raising money for Cancer research, namely Breast Cancer – which I’m sure most Devils’ fans will understand at the moment – and is running twelve marathons in twelve months; Sunday marked the completion of number ten!

(If anyone would like to know more about Bexx and her inspiring quest, all information can be found here: www.teamrun12.co.uk)

Saturday, a day off for our Cardiff Devils, saw yet another early start as I boarded a plane to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.  Off to the land of Steel to watch my beloved Pittsburgh Penguins face off against the Buffalo Sabres, it is impossible to describe how excited I was.  While I don’t mind the Rangers and would have been perfectly happy watching them at Madison Square Garden, it was definitely a treat to see my favourite team live, especially in a brilliant 5-0 victory.

The 18000+ fans in the Consol Energy were treated to goals from Chris Kunitz (2), Patrick Hornqvist, Blake Comeau and Evgeni Malkin and cheered (albeit surprisingly quietly considering the amount of people in the building) Marc-Andre Fleury to his third shutout of the week (Yes, I mean week!!!) and 31^st shutout of his career.

From the opening puck drop it was clear that the Penguins were leagues above the Sabres, and I’m not just being biased.  To watch Sidney Crosby on the ice is incredible; the way he reads the ice and can instantly decide which is the best play is breath taking.  He may get a lot of stick from a lot of people, but he is definitely, in my eyes anyway, the greatest player in the world.

Kunitz opened the scoring for the home side at just over four minutes into the first period, tallying his sixth goal of the season.  Despite relentless attempts on goal (and some more measly shots by the New York State side), the score remained the same through to the second period, when Comeau and Hornqvist added two more, both within five minutes of each other.

Pittsburgh’s number 17 doubled the Pennsylvania side’s lead at 31:54, with the help of Geno and Pascal Dupuis – the assist helping Geno increase his points steak to 10 games!  All I can say is that I’m glad he’s not doing a Crosby and growing a caterpillar on his lip to commemorate the occasion – that was a scary time for everyone!

Patrick Hornqvist got his name on the score sheet for the second time, after assisting on Kunitz’ goal from the first period, at 36:09, adding the first of the Penguins’ three power play goals of the night – a result of a silly Bench minor for the Buffalo Sabres after they were caught with too many men on the ice at 34:50.

Now considering that the majority of the 18000+ people in the building were Pens’ fans and that the Pens were up 3-0 going into the third period, you would think that the CEC would have been rocking.  Don’t get me wrong; there was some noise.  But I can come away from the BBT with ringing in my ears and a headache (in a good way) that can last for days… with six times as many people I should not have been able to hear for at least a week!  It pains me to say I was slightly disappointed that this was not the case.

I guess you can’t beat the atmosphere in the Tent even if you’re watching the best hockey league in the world!  Although, we don’t have human bowling in our period intermissions (cough cough)…

To add to the excitement of the game, Chris Kunitz added his second goal of the game just two minutes into third period, after Mike Weber was sent to the box for roughing.  Geno rounded off the scoring at 53:11 with another power play goal, after Tyler Ennis was sent to the box for interference at 52:22. 

The most surprising, and shocking, part of my time in the Consol Energy Centre was that, with less than five minutes to go, half the crowd left!  Sure I’ve seen ‘fans’ (and I use the term loosely) leave a game if their team in losing and there is no possible way they could turn it around.  To me, there is no valid reason to leave a game early (unless you have a medical emergency of some sort of course!) and I shake my head at those who don’t support their team through thick and thin, but this really takes the cake.  I have to wonder how these amazing hockey players feel, looking into the stands on a break in play to see, despite the incredible performance they have given, that half their fans are leaving before the score is even finalised!  I would happily take their place watching the greatest show on earth (after the Cardiff Devils obviously!) every week if they don’t want to stay for the whole game!

But on the whole, I had a good time in Pittsburgh and even got to try a Pittsburgh-style salad – which is a salad with French fries!!  Definitely wouldn’t mind if these made it across the pond!

Sunday saw not only yet another flight, back to NYC, but also the Nottingham Panthers travelling to the BBT.  With daylight savings ending at two AM on Sunday morning, faceoff for the game was at 13:00 EST (6pm for everyone at home), right in the middle of the NY marathon!  While I had planned to find a quiet corner in the hotel and watch the webcast, I found myself following the game on Twitter from the roadside on the streets of Brooklyn and Manhattan, in between subway journeys to the different mile points!

The only Devil missing from the line-up was Carl Hudson (hand) but the Panthers made the trip with a severely depleted bench; among the missing Panthers were Max Parent, Charles Landry and Craig Kowalski, with Mattias Modig filling in for the injured goaltender.

The game started with a bang, as normal, after Andrew Lord created a Panther-shaped hole in the boards, drawing a retaliation penalty from Greg Jacina in the process. 

With Jacina in the box, that left a gap for Jake Morrisette to open the scoring at just thirty seconds into the game!  With the Devils playing their aggressive game, things can only go up, right?

Unfortunately, that was not the case.

Just before the ten-minute mark, the Panthers drew equal – the goal coming from left wing Robert Farmer.  To add insult to injury, Robert Lachowicz added a second just two minutes later, with Steve Lee in the box for kneeing, after picking up a failed clearing pass right in front of Bowns.

Safe to say that Lord is beating himself up for that one….

Luckily, Joey Haddad managed to pull one back… that is, until Darnell got involved!  About halfway through the second period, Devils’ fans and players alike were celebrating the second goal for the home side when Darnell called no goal.

After video replay, which clearly shows the net moving as if the puck had struck the back, but the call on the play stands and the scored remained at 2-1 Panthers. 

If you haven’t had a chance to check it out, the ‘non’ goal can be found here: http://vimeo.com/110731310 

But still the Devils continued to push and push, throwing 29 shots at Modig.  Nothing seemed to do the trick and so the game finished with a disappointing 2-1 loss for our Cardiff Devils.

Despite the loss, there was a silver lining in Cardiff on Sunday, with the ‘Pink out the Rink’ campaign raising  £2500 for Breast Cancer Research.   My pink Devils’ breast cancer t-shirt is waiting for me at home!!

After thoroughly catching up on the going-ons in the Welsh capital, it was off to Madison Square Garden for me.  First Knicks home game of the season apparently and we were right up in the rafters! 

Now I know next to nothing about the NBA and basketball in general, so Sunday night was definitely an experience!  The place was full to the brim and we had some funny diehard fans sat behind us – reminded me an awful lot like Blocks 2 and 3!!

I could go into details, but honestly don’t know them!  There were lots of dancers and shooting of t-shirts out of canons, a tremendous amount of time-outs and a star-studded crowd (most of which I had never heard off!).  All in all, it was a good night and the Knicks won to top it all off!

While we suffered a disappointing loss on Sunday, we now look ahead to a home and away series against the Belfast Giants this coming weekend.  Be there or be square!!

Now, I’m off to get some sleep!  See you all soon, Devils’ fans!

Cardiff Devils @ Sheffield Steelers (CC) 27/09/2014, Cardiff Devils vs Nottingham Panthers (CC) 28/09/2014

Devils 3, Steelers 2 - SO Final

Devils 5, Panthers 2 - Final

Sheffield/Nottingham – 4^th Weekend

Back to back wins saw a voiceless Red Army after a fantastic four point Challenge Cup weekend for our Cardiff Devils!

Despite somewhat paranormal going-ons in the Sheffield Steelers’ first game in their Motorpoint Arena this season (due to crucial ice repairs), the Devils managed to come away with a 3-2 shootout win on Saturday night.  Matthew Myers scored twice to push his side through to overtime, before Jake Morrisette and Joey Martin fired the puck home, winning the shootout 2-0 to give the Devils that desperate extra point. 

The main event in the Steelers’ opening night was, of course, our favourite jazz-hand-using referee Tom Darnell!  Despite being confirmed as one of 12 UK officials to be officiating across international competitions over the next year, Darnell was up to his old tricks, allowing a very controversial goal for the Sheffield Steelers, allowing them to finish out the second period 2-1 up. 

Now, there have been many conflicting reports surrounding this ‘goal’ – some say (and these are Devils’ fans, not just Steelers’ fans) that it was definitely a goal, hitting the underside of the net and bouncing back out; others say that Darnell has simply lost what was left of his marbles and was up to his old tricks.  The justification behind the goal can be found here, thanks to Steelers TV: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8JMNqEiszc4&list=PLdV17JtpLz4unlz0nY6bOhdrAJnXlCuP6

But, nevertheless, Myers levelled it up just 46 seconds from the end of regulation to force overtime.  And with no further goals in the extra five, the teams went to a shootout – you all know how that one ended!

Sunday saw a deflated Nottingham side travel down to the Bay after suffering a humiliating 6-1 home ice defeat to the Hull Stingrays, who are still missing Player/Coach Omar Pacha after he sustained a broken arm against Edinburgh earlier in the month. 

With the Northern side already missing several keys players, including Robert Farmer (foot) and David Clarke (shoulder), they did not need any more injuries to their already shortened bench.  Unfortunately for anyone with whiskers, Berube missed Sunday’s game, and was joined by Robert Lachowicz (ankle), Evan Mosey (undisclosed) and Brandon Benedict (confused? Possible arm injury, possible concussion.  Heard some very conflicting stories on this one), all of whom left the game early.

Whether it was due to increased ice time as a result of the smaller bench or a lack of confidence after the previous night’s loss (or, you know, Cardiff’s awesomeness!), the Panthers failed to play their best hockey and the Devils walked away with another 2 points, climbing to the top spot in CC Group B.

It seemed that bus legs and tired minds were a problem for last season’s Challenge Cup winners throughout the first period on Sunday.  Already missing some vital players from their line-up, the away team needed to give 110% for all 60 minutes in the BBT but it appears that several of the on-ice players were away with the fairies! 

With that in mind, it was still exciting to come home from work and discover in the 8 or so minutes I’d missed, we were already up by two!!  Luckily I was home just in time to witness Panthers’ newcomer Nathan Robinson (who we find out today is a budding artist as well!) being ejected from the game after ‘accidentally’ getting his stick tangled up in Player/Coach Andrew Lord’s face! 

Like with many things in this game we love, there is some controversy surrounding the severity of Robinson’s punishment.  While it is entirely possible (and extremely unlikely – this is Nottingham after all!) that #91 was slightly off-balance from a previous encounter with Lord, many believe that this was completely intentional; the 5+game awarded was slightly surprising though. 

The Panthers’ own account of the game (which can be found here: http://www.panthers.co.uk/content/spirited-effort-panthers-defeat-and-injury-woe-cardiff) describes the event as Robinson being targeting and retaliating to what was dished out to him…. I’m sure we can all make our own minds up on the situation, eh?

Additionally, the piece also comments on several of the injury sustained by the Panthers’ side on Sunday night.  The most interesting comment was surrounding the injury to Brandon Benedict; the Panthers’ website is reporting he was taken to hospital after a ‘check to the head’.  While they have not confirmed or disclosed any details about the injury, it is also being reported on the Steelers’ website that Benedict will be missing this weekend’s games due to concussion (http://www.sheffieldsteelers.co.uk/medical-staff-busy-for-both-steelers-and-panthers-p193844).  See why I’m so confused??  I guess it is just a case of watch this space for now…

The Panthers definitely seemed more awake after the first period break and some silly penalties for the Devils allowed them the space they needed to pull two goals back to bring them back within one going into the third period.  It definitely looked like things were looking up for the downtrodden side.

It was a case of who scores next wins… so thank the hockey gods for Andrew Lord!

With a spin-o-rama Crosby would have been proud of, Coach put the puck behind Kowalski (who, like most of the travelling team, was quite passive in the opening 20 before waking up and leading from the back for the rest of the game) and the game out of reach!  MOM Trevor Hendrikx added an extra tally to confirm the win and give the Devils those all important Challenge Cup points!!

This coming week sees the Red Army travelling across the Irish Sea to the Land of Guinness – Belfast beware!!  With Devils fans out in full force, it will be two incredible games so if you can’t make it to the O make sure you check out the webcast: https://live.belfastgiants.com// or the MNL: http://www.the-inferno.co.uk/mnl to keep up to date with every thing that happens as our boys continue to fight it out for those crucial league points!

Cardiff Devils @ Nottingham Panthers (L/CC) 13/09/14, Cardiff Devils vs Coventry Blaze (CC) 14/09/2014

Cardiff 1, Nottingham 3 - Final

Cardiff 4, Coventry 3 - Final

Good Evening!!!

Looks like we’ve had an interesting weekend of Cardiff Devils’ hockey gone by, after an unfortunate loss against the Nottingham Panthers on Saturday night in a joint league/challenge cup matchup – only for the boys to steam roll the Coventry Blaze in an exhilarating third period last night!

Throughout the entire 120 minutes of Devils’ hockey this weekend we’ve seen 11 goals, 134 PIMs, 1 bleeding referee and a bruised fan!  And, due to a mean boss who likes me to work all hours of the day and night, I’ve had a great day off catching up on everything that has happened over the past few days!

Saturday saw the Red Army make the long trip up to Nottingham, which, despite a valiant effort from everyone, ended 3-1 in favour of the home side.

Both sides saw a quick start to the game, with Panthers’ Bruce Graham driving a hole through the Devils’ defence after just over 6 minutes to put his side ahead, dropping the puck in the back of the net after picking up his own rebound.  However, it seems the cats’ whiskers were out of place just a few short minutes later as Chris Culligan evened up the score, gliding through the large space left open in the middle of the Panthers’ blue line, after Greg Jacina took an early trip to the penalty box for hooking.

Goal scorer Graham was quick to follow Jacina to the box for slashing but despite the Devils’ tremendous record on the powerplay this weekend, the score remained tied.  That is until Max Langelier-Parent (anyone else feeling sorry for the announcers on that one? Just me?) added another to the home side’s tally, giving them the advantage going into the second period. 

The second twenty saw plenty of bums on seats as Mike Hicks put his whisle to good use – handing out nearly half of the total PIMs for the night.  Unfortunately for the visiting fans, while the Devils have done extremely well so far on the penalty kill, the Panthers’ were able to steal the puck despite being a man down and Cody Wild managed to put the puck five-hole, scoring what would become the game winning goal with just under half the period remaining.

With tensions running high, we all kind of expected some handbags – it’s Nottingham after all!  While there were some roughing incidents early on (and I’m not just talking about Devils’ fan Helen Drane putting a dent in the puck with her arm!), the main event of the night was between Jesse Mychan and Charles Landry mid-way through the third.

After Landry decided Mychan was a bit to close to Craig Kowalski (who we all know can look after himself, usually in the dirtiest way possible), blood was shed, Landry was escorted off to be patched up and both players were awarded five for fighting with a direct ticket to the box – words all hockey fans love to hear, wouldn’t you agree?

In both games over the weekend our boys in reddy-green have demonstrated that they are a force to be reckoned with, whether we are playing with 5 skaters or not!  The special teams are something the guys have struggled with over the past few seasons; I distinctly remember someone comparing our powerplays to the disastrous Welsh lineouts from the 2012 6 Nations (remember those? Ouch!) but this year, it seems the tables are turning!!!

While many are insisting the Devils’ dominated from start to end against the Coventry Blaze last night, the score board showed a late turn in the team’s favour with a fantastic four-goal third period, three of which all happened in the space of 6 minutes!

As with many Cardiff-Coventry match ups, there were plenty of hits, chirps and all round nastiness.  Sunday’s game saw almost 90 penalty minutes awarded to the two teams – in total, not individually thank goodness!

And it wasn’t just the players getting a bit roughed up; referee Dean Smith was treated to a fat lip, thanks to the glove of Blaze no. 14, Cale Tanaka – wonder what that was about?!

The Red Army had plenty to cheer about throughout the game, especially with summer signing Doug Clarkson damaging the rink’s structural stability with Blaze-sized holes!  After a brilliant pre-season, Clarkson had a slow start in the opening weekend, possibly due to the lack of playing time he put in last year whilst recovering from injury, but came back to prove his metal this week against some of the toughest guys in the league.

To say that Blocks 2 and 3 enjoy watching Egener run and hide from the big Ontario native would be an understatement!

Thanks to Cescon and Goertzen, the Blaze were flying high going into the final period – despite being knocked down by each Devil that passed them.  Tensions were high but the home side did not disappoint.

As seems to be the fashion this year, the Cardiff boys fought hard for a comeback win that saw Coventry draw penalty after penalty – mainly because Brian Stewart couldn’t keep his hair on; he’s obviously never heard the phrase ‘sticks and stones’!  With three fabulous PPG to put the Welsh side in front, the Tent was rocking and looked like it was about to crumble as Jake Morrisette demonstrated why Player-Coach Andrew Lord fought to keep him in the Bay!

With just under four minutes left, Morrisette, with the help of Richardson and Martin (another great signing from the summer), ploughed his way through the Coventry defence and put the game out of reach.  While Jake was met with some doubts when he re-signed, there are no words to describe the beauty of his game winner last night!

Despite a last minute goal from a frantic visiting side, nothing could stop the Devils from finally claiming those well-deserved Challenge Cup points.

While we may have seen a topsy-turby weekend in way of results, I think we have seen the beginning of a beautiful campaign, in both the League and finally the Challenge Cup.  The constantly changing jigsaw has eventually come together and I think we are all liking the picture we are seeing!

Everyone enjoy your week and prepare yourselves for this coming weekend, as the Clan travel down to the BBT on Saturday as Cardiff continue their league campaign in style!!  Make sure you’re there so we can give Ben Davies, Joe Myers (yay!!!!) and even Chris Frank a big ex-Devils’ welcome!!!

Cardiff Devils vs Nottingham Panthers (L) 27/01/2013

Devils 2, Panthers 4 - Final

  It was a devastating end to the weekend for the Cardiff Devils, as they suffered a 4-2 defeat to the Nottingham Panthers - despite playing their hearts out.  Though the scoreline says otherwise, Cardiff did not deserve to lose against the league leaders; they gave 110% and all Devils' fans will be proud of what went down in the BBT.  But this is a clear display of how it isn't over until the whistle blows...

  Fans from both Cardiff and Nottingham saw an uneventful first period; no goals, no penalties.  Both teams had several chances and the net minders, Craig Kowalski and, on his home debut, Chris Whitley, definitely deserve some huge recognition for the stops pulled out.  The crowd saw some physical play to keep them interested but the goals just wouldn't come.

  Off into the second and Nottingham were pressing for the advantage.  They finally broke the deadlock in the third minute, Bruce Graham earning his 25th goal of the season to put the Panthers ahead.  Neither side could increase, or add to the goals throughout the second, so the visiting team carried a 1-0 lead into the third.

  All penalties from the second were minors - a combination of 6 for Nottingham and 2 for Cardiff but the penalty killing units were up to scratch and nothing was getting through.

  Now the third, where to start...?  A combined tally of five goals between the two sides, with the final two coming in the final minute and a half.  The Panthers' started it off, Pat Galivan doubling the Northern side's lead.  This lead was reduced, however, when Faulkner added his third goal of the weekend to finally get the home side on the board, with Captain Stuart MacRae following behind just minutes later to level the game.

  Everything was starting to look up for Cardiff; the game was levelled and if things continued they could force overtime.  Unfortunately, Nottingham were not down and out.  After taking a bad hit from Beckett, Max Birbraer had to be escorted from the ice, leaving a trail of blood behind him.  With a key penalty killer out for treatment, the Devils' were unlucky to draw two penalties (Marsh for boarding and Richardson for hooking) in the final minutes of the game.  Down to four, then three, skaters, it wasn't too difficult for David Ling - a player who the Devils' defence have always had a problem containing - to slot the puck behind Chris Whitley.  Nottingham rounded it off with a power play empty-netter from Lachowicz to give the final score of 4-2 Panthers.

  So despite the amazing play from the Devils, everything fell apart in the final minutes.  Meanwhile, they will be shaking the disappointment off and getting ready to face the Coventry Blaze on Thursday, down at the BBT for a 7.30pm face off... make sure you're there to support the guys!  Let's Go Devils!

Cardiff Devils @ Nottingham Panthers (L) 12/01/2013

Devils 1, Panthers 4 - Final

Hockey night and the Red Army made their way up to Nottingham, as the Cardiff Devils faced off against the Nottingham Panthers, who currently sit top of the EIHL table. However, David Beauguard has yet to arrive, and both coach Corey Neilson and back up netminder Dan Green were missing from lineup - though Kelsey Wilson was warmly welcomed back by the home support. Devils were missing Rupert Quiney (who was back in Cardiff on ENL duty) but welcomed back Max Birbraer from injury and Sean Scarborough, who comes up to the elite league after signing a month long contract with the Welsh side.

Nottingham came out strong, with their MOM David Ling scoring the first of his four goals just 2:41 in. Meanwhile, down the other end, with his sister in the crowd, Chris Blight showed a positive attitude in the opening minutes, with a few good shots on goal, though unable to even the score. Tensions running high, pushing and shoving was common, resulting in a Nottingham penalty - but Cardiff failed to convert on the man advantage.

Coming towards the end of the period, things were looking bleak but hopes were lifted as the puck was fired past Craig Kowalski ... Only for him to lean back and fish the puck back out before it could touch the back of the net. With that disappointment, the first period finished 1-0 in favour of the home side.

Clearly on a role and willing to demonstrating why they are now sitting 6 points clear at the top, Nottingham came out quickly, scoring 40seconds in to double their lead. The scoreline obviously lighting a short fuse, Cardiff showed some promise in the following minutes, with some big hits and great chances, Jesse Gimblett running rings around the Nottingham defense. Cardiff MOM Ben Davies saw some bad luck in the form of a rocket shot to the knee, resulting in his leaving the ice for treatment - though he iced in the third, getting some good shots on goal.

With what looked like a key forward missing from play for who knows how long and the scoreline looking anything but promising, Cardiff were in need of a kick start that would last longer than a few minutes. A win against tough guy Gui Lepine could provide this, you say? Tyson Marsh was clearly thinking along the same lines, allowing Lepine to land a few hits before taking him to the ice - binging a huge cheer from the away block! Following the fight-fuelled high, Cardiff picked up their game. Kowlaski, continuing on with his fantastic form, made save after save...keeping his team solidly in the lead with no change in the foreseeable future.

But all the fun and games came to an end when Max Birbraer was sent to the box for boarding after a relatively clean hit.... His first of the game, to the surprise of many. With confidence demoralised and Cardiff afraid to get physical for fear of ref Mike Hicks throwing them in the box,things went further downhill. Ling managed to get his hat trick goal, giving Nottingham a three goal advantage with just two minutes left in the period. However, in a surprise turn of events, Mark Smith forced the puck past Kowalski, breaking the Devils' deadlock just seconds before the end of the period - reducing the Panthers lead to only two goals into the final twenty.

As seemed to be a pattern throughout the game, Nottingham scored early on in the third, Ling scoring his fourth and final goal - the shot going glove side into an unguarded back door, Ling shooting unopposed. The disappointment continued for Red Army fans as shot after shot missed its target and puck after puck was stripped from the ever tired Devils' players; Kowalski and the Panthers looked invincible - Cardiff just could not keep up. A sliding save from tender Osaer was the only thing stopping Nottingham from increasing their lead further, the final score 4-1 to the home side, sending them 6 points clear at the top...well on course to lift the Elite League trophy at the end of the year.

Cardiff now face a long trip home to battle it put against the Fife Flyers in tomorrow's match up down at the BBT... Shaking off the loss tonight, there will be everything to play for so make sure you get down to the Bay and support the boys! Lets go Devils!

Cardiff Devils vs Nottingham Panthers (L) 08/12/2012

Devils 2, Panthers 3 - SO Final

  After a thrilling double over Sheffield last weekend, which also ended in a shootout, the Red Army were up and raring to go - the Panthers in from the North this week.  Cardiff were missing a few key players on Saturday night, Birbraer to injury, Bissonnette to illness and Harding to international duty so it was definitely going to be an interesting match.

  It was a slow game to start, with various penalties for both sides in the opening twenty.  Both sides saw some chances in the first but neither were able to capitalise, taking the 0-0 deadlock through to the second period - where Cardiff Captain Stuart MacRae scored a shorthanded goal, just eleven seconds in (after Devin Didiomete was sent to the box for cross-checking at 1845 in the first, which automatically ran over into the second when the buzzer rang).

  With the home side in the lead, spirits were high...but the Panthers weren't going to let that stand.  Just two minutes later, Gulivan added Nottingham's first, levelling the score at one a piece.  The fans then saw a few more penalties, including a delay of game from Kenton Smith - allowing fellow teammate Mac Faulkner to add a shorthanded goal of his own to once again give the Welsh side the lead.

  Things were looking steady, but Gui Lepine managed to add a controversial equaliser in the last minute.

  Despite Didiomete scoring a third Devils' goal in the final twenty, the score remained at 2-2 until the end of regulation, after referee Mike Hicks ruled no goal and the game was forced to go to overtime.  The extra five minutes saw a solid effort from both sides, and some near misses but that final goal was just out of reach.

  Cardiff started the shootout well, with a goal from Blight.  Nottingham answered quickly - Francis scoring two to gain his team the extra point.

  Just the one game for Cardiff this weekend but we have a hockey filled weekend ahead, with the Devils playing three games in three days....Starting with a visit to the O, where they will take on the Belfast Giants.  After Nottingham's success this weekend, Belfast were knocked off the top of the table and will be desperate for the win to set that right.  If you're not heading over to Ireland, don't forget to follow along at Match Night Live for all your game updates!  Let's Go Devils!

Cardiff Devils @ Nottingham Panthers (L) 24/11/2012

Devils 0, Panthers 5 - Final

The Cardiff Devils suffered a devastating blow to their league campaign on Saturday night, as they travelled up to Nottingham - only to be subjected to a 5-0 thrashing.

Things started slowly for both teams, a penalty a piece the only thing to report. Both Clarke and Faulkner spent time in the box for hooking but neither side could capitalise in the man advantage.

The Panthers came out quickly in the second, scoring on the powerplay in the second minute (Piggot was in the box for hooking). They doubled this lead after Kenton Smith found himself in the box for the same offence.

The home side scored twice more in the second, one being a powerplay goal after Mark Smith was sent to the box, again for hooking. With the momentum flowing, the Northern side travelled into the third with a 4-0 lead.

With heads down early on, the Devils were unable to prevent a fifth Nottingham goal, but bucked up their ideas for the final ten. With some good chances in the dying minutes they were unlucky, Kowalski staying strong in the Panthers' net. Although he did earn himself a 2+2 for roughing, after a tussle with Didiomete - who also received the same.

With a long trip home, the Devils had to shake off the loss. Hopefully playing in front of a full capacity crowd, the Red Army were welcoming (or not) the Coventry Blaze into the BBT on Sunday night- where they were hoping to get revenge for that game a few weeks; you know the one! Let's go Devils!

Cardiff Devils vs Nottingham Panthers (L) 21/10/2012

Devils 2, Panthers 1 - Final

  After playing their best game of the season so far, the Cardiff Devils grabbed those all important two pints, 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!

Cardiff Devils @ Nottingham Panthers (CC/L) 02/10/2012

Devils 2, Panthers 4 - Final

  It was a disappointing result for the travelling Cardiff Devils’ supporters last night, as the visiting Red Army suffered a devastating 4-2 defeat to Corey Neilson and his Nottingham side.  Although Neilson, as well as several other Panthers, did not ice – due to injury- the Panthers looked incredibly strong throughout the game.  Whether it was due to the return of Gui Lepine or the fact that Anthony Stewart, NHL forward, made his home debut for the club, they demonstrated why they were crowded the Playoff champions last year.

  Nottingham got things off to a quick start, with Ling scoring his first of three, showing off why he was awarded the Man of the Match award, just six minutes in.  A couple of penalties for both sides followed, although neither was able to capitalise on the advantage.  There seemed to be a lack of the physically behind the Welsh side, maybe due to the fact that hard hitter Max Birbraer is still out on suspension.  The period finished by for Ling’s second goal, putting Nottingham two goals ahead going into the second.

  At the beginning of the second, it seemed that Cardiff were turning the tables, with hot shot Mac Faulkner scoring in the 22^nd minute to bring his team back into the game.  A bit of action followed as goal-scorers Faulkner and Ling partook in some handbags, but nothing really came of it.  But it seemed that the Panthers weren’t going to let anything disrupt their night.

  Just four minutes after the Devils’ first goal, Francis added to the Panthers’ total, giving them a 2-goal lead over Cardiff.  They continued to dominate but, despite several powerplay opportunities for both teams, the score stayed at 3-1 going into the final twenty.

  The third was definitely one for the threes; just three minutes in, Ling scored his third goal, giving Nottingham even more breathing space with a three-goal lead.  The Devils managed to close the gap to two, after Phil Hill slotted one passed Kowalski, but could not get level or push ahead.  With an fantastic display of defending from tender Osaer and brother Mark and Kenton Smith, the Devils’ managed to scrape through without any other goals.  Final score in the NIC: 4-2 Panthers.

  Despite the loss last night, the Red Army are shaking it off, and looking forward to the weekend, when we take on the Sheffield Steelers at the BBT (Puck-drop: 7:07pm).  Get down to the bay and cheer on our boys!  Let’s Go Devils!

Cardiff Devils vs Nottingham Panthers 23/09/12 (CC)

Devils 6, Panthers 5 - OT Final

  We were back in the BBT last night with the Cardiff Devils facing off against the Nottingham Panthers.  With the Devils getting off to an unsettled start this season, the Red Army were definitely looking for a big win against the age old foe from the North.  Coming off an overtime loss to Coventry in the Skydome on Saturday night and desperate to break a four game losing streak, the South Wales side had everything to play for.

  Cardiff came out strong, with Captain Stuart MacRae giving Cardiff the advantage after just 42 seconds!  New signing Devin Didiomete added to the excitement with some of those hard hits that Devils' are famous for, giving the crowd in the BBT something extra to cheer about.  Unfortunately, the Red Army was quieten momentarily when the Panthers equalised, via David Clarke, in the third minute.

  Although the scoring stayed level for the duration of the first period, it was not a boring period by any means; within the first five minutes, we'd already seen Devin Didiomete smash Lachowicz all the way into next week and match up against Lee in a brawl-style fight.  It seemed that rough was the name of the game in the Bay, with several roughing penalties following the Didiomete/Lee fight, as well as some aggressive slashing and cross checking.  This was definitely not a game to be missed.

  The second period was slightly calmer, despite the crowd being ignited for each of the three Devils' goals scored throughout the second twenty minutes!  Both goaltenders performed brilliantly, giving the crowd a show they aren't likely to forget anytime soon.  From the get-go in the second, the Devils' were emitting immense pressure on the Nottingham tender, Craig Kowalski, and he was all but standing on his head in a desperate attempt to keep the score level.  His efforts, however, did not prove successful, especially when Mark Smith put the Devils' ahead once more, just after the 25 minute mark.  He was soon followed by Mac Faulkner and Max Birbraer, all contributing into getting the Devils' three goals ahead going into the third period.

  The Devils' went on to score another goal in regulation, with Chris Blight finding the back of the net with just over five minutes left in the period.  Unfortunately, Nottingham seemed to have found their flow and the goals would not stop coming.  The Northern side managed to slip four goals past tender Osaer, coming from Werner, Myers, Lachowicz and Ling respectively, to even it up before the end of regulation.

  Despite the Panthers' new-found energy, Cardiff managed to cling on, calling a time out just after Benedict was sent to the box for hooking, using their time to come up with a successful plan to get the puck in the back of the net.  For the second time, first star Chris Blight came to the Welsh side's rescue, getting them that overtime goal that had been alluding the side for the past four games.  Second and third star when to Devils' Davies and Panthers' Myers.

  The guys now have a few days to recover before the Giants come crashing into the BBT on Thursday night (puck drop: 7:30pm).  Tickets are on sale now for what is sure to be an exciting match up between the two long time rivals.  Let's Go Devils!

Cardiff Devils @ Nottingham Panthers 25/02/2012

  It was that time again, and the Red Army were out in force last night as the Cardiff Devils ventured up to Nottingham to take on the third place Nottingham Panthers.  Coming off a great week last week, with a win over both the Fife Flyers and the Hull Stingrays, the Devils seemed ready to carry their momentum to Nottingham with them.

  The Welsh side didn’t hit it off in the best way, finding themselves 2-0 down within six minutes.  With both Fox and Clarke scoring for the English side, it seemed like a complete opposite of what most fans had witnessed in the England/Wales 6 Nations game earlier that day.  Despite the two goal deficit, the Devils’ managed to pull the Panthers’ lead back to one, with a neat back door goal, assisted by Canadian Captain Stuart MacRae.  No other goals followed in the opening twenty and the intermission came with a score of 2-1 Panthers.

  Things seemed to go from bad to worse as the second period rolled around, with Nottingham pushing their lead up to 5-1 in the first ten minutes.  The onslaught of Panthers’ goals started just two minutes into the period, with a second from David Clarke, who played with Devils’ starting tender Stevie Lyle on Tuesday night in Lyle’s Testimonial game.  The second came just after 30 minutes (30.14) from Matt Francis, the third a minute later from Brandon Benedict.  Despite the serious Nottingham advantage, the Devils’ managed to pull another one back, coming from Scott Dobben in the dying minutes of the second. 

  Now onto the third, and either Gee gave an incredibly inspiring pep-talk during the intermission or Dobben’s goal was earth-shattering, as the Devils’ came out onto the ice with a new attitude for the final twenty.  Shown in the statistics by the 15-6 shots difference in the third, in favour of Cardiff, the Devils’ were clearly determined to turn the tables.  And it looked to be working, when at just a minute twenty into the period, Scott Dobben scored his second of the night, cutting the deficit to 2 goals, with a Panthers’ lead of 5-3.  With a further nineteen minutes left to play in the game, it seemed like anything was possible for the Welsh side. 

  Unfortunately, despite the luck seeming to be on the side of the Red Dragon, the Devils’ just couldn’t get the puck passed Panthers’ netminder, Craig Kowalski.  Down at the other end of the ice, the Devils’ D slipped one to many times and Beauregard took full advantage to add a final Panthers’ goal to the final tally.  The game finished with a final score of 6-3 to the Panthers’ and a disappointed Welsh side. 

  With all of Cardiff gearing up to watch the Carling Cup Final, with hometown Cardiff FC facing Liverpool, tonight’s face off has been delayed half an hour, so the Devils’ will now be facing the Hull Stingrays at 6.30pm, down at the BBT.  Let’s get as many people as we can down to the Bays to support our Devils! Let’s go Devils!

Cardiff Devils vs Nottingham Panthers 04/09/11

Devils 4, Panthers 1 - Final

  Just like we all knew they would, the Devils served the Panthers their just desserts tonight.  Revenge was sweet with a 4-1 final score, and the Panthers left buried in the boards were just a bonus.  From the great defence to the aggressive forwards, Cardiff were a completely different team.

  Although the first period ended scoreless, there were definitely some incredible plays made by both teams.  At both ends, goaltenders Stevie Lyle and Craig Kowalski made some spectacular saves, with lightening fast gloves and pads, each earning themselves the corresponding man of the match award.  Mark Richardson, number 17 for the Devils, demonstrated excellent defensive manoeuvres, using his body, stick and skates.  As with the defensemen, the forwards were definitely playing a different game.

  Unlike in last night's game, when he was described as timid, Phil Hill was one of the most aggressive players on the game, earning several trips to the penalty box.  Also showing his somewhat aggressive nature was Canadian Brad Voth, who traded insults with Panthers' player Guillaume Lepine, who had been the thorn in Voth's side for most of last night's game as well.  Although Devils' fans were spared from the refereeing of Mick Hicks for a second straight night, there were some unjust penalties called throughout the first.

  The second saw the need fro the twine in the back of the net.  With three of the five total goals being scored in the second, it was starting to heat up.  The first goal of the night came off the stick Panthers' number 5, David Clarke.  But, in light of the defeat handed to the Devils last night, they weren't going to let the rivals get too far ahead.  Little over a minute later  saw Devils' number 8, Tim Burrows, bury the puck in the back of the net behind Kowalski.  With just over 10 minutes left in the second, new signing Jeff Pierce sent the puck into the twine to double the Devils' lead.

  With the boys 2-1 up at the end of the second, there wasn't a Devils' fan in the Tent without a smile on their face.  These gleeful smiles turned to full out grins when another new Devils' signing, Scott Dobben, added yet another goal.  Jeff Pierce finished the night off with his second, with just 2:39 left in the game.

  So with a win under their belts and a smile on their faces, the Devils saluted their fans before leaving the ice.  The next match is against Belfast on Saturday 10th September, at the BBT.  Let's Go Devils!

Cardiff Devils @ Nottingham Panthers 03/09/11

Devils 1, Panthers 6 - Final

  The season is finally upon us, and the Devils kicked off in spectacular fashion… with a spectacular loss.  It was the theory circling the Red Army that, although we knew this opening weekend would be hard, this would be a chance to show that we can better the Panthers despite what the playoff final demonstrated.  Unfortunately, we haven’t got off to the best of starts.  With over three hundred fans making the long, tedious journey up to Nottingham, it was definite that everyone was excited to see the team play.

  With the Devils in black, we knew they meant business.  Despite missing number 23, Max Birbraer – thought to be due to a possible injury sustained in Wednesday’s preseason game against Coventry-, the team looked strong at the start; also missing from the bench was bench coach Neil Francis, who was served with a match penalty at the end of the playoff final.  Additions to the line up came in the form of Adam Harding and Luke Piggott, who played in the 7-3 defeat to Coventry on Wednesday. 

  With the Panthers making two early trips to the penalty box, both before a minute had past, the boys in black were dominating the game.  With newly appointed Captain Stuart MacRae coming extremely close, forward Sam Smith put the Devils ahead with a goal at just 2:20 into the game.  From then the Devils stayed strong, even when coach and assistant coach, Gerad Adams and Scott Matzka took penalties within seconds of each other.  The Devils managed to hold the Panthers back and successfully killed both penalties. 

  With the Devils’ lines taking a new form, everything started to go a bit haywire.  We are used to seeing Voth with Hill, but tonight Voth played with Burrows and Davies.  Phil Hill was even described to be looking a little timid throughout the night.  Although I don’t personally think so, some people could put the first, if not all the Panthers’ goals down to the unfamiliarity of the Devils’ lines.  But for whatever the reason, the Panthers came back with a goal of their own at 9:53 of the first period.    The second came at 16:00, on the power-play.  The first period ended 2-1 Panthers.

  In the second period, the Devils’ defense was all over the place, with the forwards not far behind.  On the power-play we got no shots and on the power-kill we conceded too many.  We were able to fall back on the amazing skills of goaltender Stevie Lyle for a while, most fans hoping that things would pick up, but it was only a matter of time before Stevie folded.  Third Panthers goal came at 30:55 on the power-play. 

  During the second, it looked like the Devils might be able to pull it back a little.  Just before the third Panthers goal, Jeff Pierce broke away towards the net.  Now, unfortunately for Devils’ fans, Mike Hicks was refereeing the game, and when Pierce was tripped from behind during his breakaway, Hicks called slashing and sent him to the box, instead of giving Pierce a penalty shot.  If anyone was at the Cardiff/Nottingham game at the BBT in February, then you will know what it feels like to witness a game refereed by Hicks.  This game was no different.  Before the second period ended, Beauregard of the Panthers, who scored the second goal for the home team, managed to extend their lead to 5-1, gaining himself the two goals needed for a hat-trick.

  Despite the quality of play throughout most of the first two periods, the Devils started the third strongly.  For most of the last 20:00, both teams played an end-to-end game, with not much happening.  However, despite the pick-up in play for the Devils, they were not able to hold back David Clarke from adding a final sixth goal to the tally, leaving the final score at 6-1 Panthers.  Man of the match for Cardiff was number 17, Mark Richardson, with Jordan Fox getting the award for the home team. 

  Hope anyone travelling back from the game has a safe trip.  The Devils play the Panthers at the BBT tomorrow night, puck drop at 6pm, and it is sure to be an interesting game… especially due to the change in referee!