Giants lose out to Devils in overtime

The Giants won Friday's shootout against the Devils, but lost in overtime on Saturday. Credit: Presseye

  • Belfast Giants 2 - 3 Cardiff Devils (after OT)

By Victoria Steveley

The Belfast Giants narrowly lost out in overtime against the league-leading Cardiff Devils, taking three points out of the split weekend.

After Friday night's penalty shootout victory for the home side, Saturday's rematch proved every bit as thrilling.

The opening period of action ended scoreless, but the second saw the visitors forge ahead.

Layne Ulmer bagged the opening goal after about seven minutes to make it 1-0 to the Devils.

There was a breakaway chance for Sébastien Sylvestre after a big save from Giants netminder Jackson Whistle, but he couldn't get past Ben Bowns at the other end.

Sébastien Sylvestre in action for the Giants. Credit: Presseye

Ulmer got his second of the game minutes later, while the Devils went on the powerplay.

But, with just over five minutes to go before the final break - and while Sylvestre sat for two minutes for unsportsmanlike conduct - Darcy Murphy passed the puck in front of Bowns for Spiro Goulakos to fire home shorthanded.

Having cut the Devils' lead to just one goal, the Giants got their equaliser in the third period through captain Blair Riley.

The Giants celebrate their equaliser against the Devils. Credit: Presseye

Whistle really proved his worth throughout the game, stopping a penalty shot and making another huge save seconds after regular play resumed.

Bowns was also on form though, denying some great chances for the Belfast side.

With the game deadlocked at 2-2 after 60 minutes, it moved to sudden death overtime for a second night running.

Jackson Whistle was on top form for the Giants. Credit: Presseye

But, unlike Friday, penalties were not required to determine who would take the extra point.

Despite the Giants arguably having the better chances, Joey Martin struck with 2.45 left on the clock.

With each team getting three points out of the weekend, the Devils continue to lead the Elite League - seven points ahead of the second-placed Giants.

The Giants ultimately split the points with the Devils. Credit: Presseye

Next up for the Belfast side is Wednesday night's big Challenge Cup semi-final second leg game against the Nottingham Panthers.

They take a four-goal lead into that match, having won 5-1 on the road in the first leg.

  • Coach Adam Keefe on how his Giants stacked up against the Devils