Cardiff Devils 3-2 Sheffield Steelers

Paul Thompson’s men had been desperate to pull back the 12-point gap which had opened up between the sides.

But tonight it grew to 14 although Sheffield still have five games in hand.

The narrow loss may end up a negative turning point in Steelers’ desire to retain the title.

Levi Nelson (assts John Armstrong and Jesse Schultz) had put the champions ahead.

But a Devils goal awarded to Patrick Asselin at 29:25 made it 1-1.

Joey Martin scored a disputed go-ahead goal although Jace Coyle made it 2-2 for Steelers at 52.40.

Then Josh Batch scored Devils’ third of the night with seven minutes remaining.

It was the defining moment of the match - and there was no way back for Sheffield.

RESULTS

Saturday 17th December

Elite League

Braehead Clan 4 Coventry Blaze 7

Cardiff Devils 3 Sheffield Steelers 2

Edinburgh Capitals 4 Dundee Stars 3 (OT)

Nanchester Storm 4 Fife Flyers 3 (PS)

FIXTURES

Sunday 18th December

Elite League

Coventry Blaze v Belfast Giants 5.15pm

Dundee Stars v Edinburgh Capitals - 6.30pm

Fife Flyers v Braehead Clan - 6.30pm

Nottingham Panthers v Cardiff Devils - 4.00pm