Steelers boss Aaron Fox calls for consistency from referees

The Sheffield coach was like a human windmill at times in Sunday's 4-1 win over Belfast Giants at the Arena - waving his hands animatedly at some of the calls made by referees Tom Pering and Liam Sewell.

Compared to some previous Steeler coaches, Fox is not the type to blow a fuse either on the bench or off it.

But he felt an evenness was missing from some of the decisions in a powderkeg game which could turn out to be crucial in league title terms for both clubs.

"Sometimes the consistency in the officiating is not what you are looking for," he said.

"But I know it is a hard job and they try to do the best that they can.

"This is obviously my livelihood at stake here and I am just looking for some consistency some nights.

"I am a competitive guy..and every calls matters, of course you will see me frustrated at times."

The coach referred to some "non-calls" adding that winger Anthony DeLuca had been crosschecked in the face and a similar fate was in store for Tanner Eberle.

Fox said he sometimes challenged decisions in "certain conversations" with league officials but also recognised he sometimes sees things differently after a night's sleep.

"I just want some consistency so I can go back to my guys and give them some feedback on why calls are being made and why calls are not being made."

Overall, Fox was relieved that his players were much more committed than of late - the weekend snapped a four-game losing streak and kept them at the top of the EIHL.

Competing for the puck was "next level" he said, both against Belfast and in the 6-2 win at Nottingham Panthers, the night before.

"We were physical, we battled hard, we didn't give up an inch."

*Cardiff Devils remain a single point behind Sheffield at the top; but they needed an overtime goal against Coventry Blaze to get maximum points.

With five left of regular season action, the Welsh are favourites - but they have to face a resurgent Sheffield twice, home and away.

Next Saturday, Steelers host bottom club Fife Flyers, while Devils must travel to Nottingham.