Steelers secure Challenge Cup group top spot after Cardiff lose in Manchester

Sheffield Steelers ended Sunday 1 November with first place in their Challenge Cup group secured, despite a shootout defeat at Coventry in the league.

According to The Star, Sheffield drew 3-3 with Coventry Blaze before losing the shootout, taking a point to move level with Cardiff Devils at the league summit. It was Cardiff’s separate cup result in Manchester that settled the group standings.

The Devils needed to win their final group fixture, either in regulation time or overtime, to overtake Sheffield. They held leads of 2-0 and 3-1, but Manchester Storm drew level and then won the shootout.

Finishing first means the Steelers will stage the second leg of their two-match semi-final at the Utilita Arena. Their last-four place had already been secured by a 5-2 win against Manchester earlier in the week.

Sheffield’s semi-final opposition has yet to be officially confirmed. Cardiff are the likeliest opponents, with the outcome dependent on the elimination game between Guildford Flames and Fife Flyers.

Source: The Star