Jasper double fires Sheffield Steelers to important victory in Manchester
Sheffield Steelers beat Manchester Storm at the AO Arena
Evan Jasper scored twice as Sheffield Steelers claimed two valuable Elite League points with a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Manchester Storm at the AO Arena on Friday night.
The Steelers forward was the difference-maker for Aaron Fox's side, striking in both the second and third periods as Sheffield twice opened up a two-goal advantage before holding off a determined Manchester comeback.
Mikko Juusola was also on target as the Steelers continued their improving league form, securing the first two points of a weekend double-header that concludes at the Utilita Arena Sheffield on Saturday evening.
Having already beaten Storm twice in the Challenge Cup this season, Sheffield knew they would face another difficult examination against a Manchester side that has made life uncomfortable for Fox's men in their previous encounters.
A tightly contested opening period saw neither team able to break the deadlock, with both goaltenders keeping the scores level after twenty minutes.
However, the game came to life in the middle session as the Steelers struck twice to take control.
The breakthrough came from a well-executed two-on-one breakaway, with Brandon Whistle driving towards the Manchester net and creating the opportunity for Juusola to fire Sheffield into the lead.
The visitors then doubled their advantage on the power play, producing some excellent passing before Jasper arrived at the back post to apply the finishing touch.
At 2-0, the Steelers appeared to be in a commanding position, but Manchester responded almost immediately, pulling a goal back to ensure the contest remained finely balanced heading into the final period.
Sheffield restored their two-goal advantage when Olivier Archambault produced some excellent work to set up Jasper, who made no mistake with his second of the evening to put the visitors 3-1 ahead.
But once again Storm refused to surrender, hitting back quickly to reduce the deficit and set up a tense conclusion.
With Manchester pushing hard for an equaliser, the Steelers were forced to dig deep in the closing minutes, showing the resilience and determination required to protect their slender advantage.
Fox's side held firm, however, securing an important road victory and maintaining their momentum in the pursuit of the Elite League championship and remain joint top of the league.