Belfast Giants claim back-to-back Challenge Cup titles

Belfast Giants captain Blair RIley lifts the Challenge Cup in Cardiff for a second year in a row. Credit: David Williams

The Belfast Giants have successfully defended their Challenge Cup title, beating Guildford Flames 2-1 in overtime in this year’s final in Cardiff.

Adam Keefe’s side will once again be bringing silverware back home to Belfast following the result.

They needed a goal in overtime to get the win, after three periods of action saw them still locked at 1-1 with Guildford.

Jordan Smotherman provided the game-winning goal for the Belfast Giants. Credit: David Williams

While the teams played out a goalless opening 20 minutes, the Flames out-shot their opponents with 15 shots on target to the Giants’ five.

The second period saw the Giants fire themselves into the lead though, with a goal from former NHLer Patrick Dwyer.

His powerplay shot, from assists by Josh Roach and Kyle Baun, went top shelf to beat Flames netminder Chris Carrozzi.

Belfast Giants coach Adam Keefe lifts the Challenge Cup. Credit: David Williams

However, Guildford were determined to give the Giants a run for their money and Jamie Crooks scored past Belfast netminder Tyler Beskorowany to provide the equaliser.

A tense scoreless final period took the game into sudden death overtime and, just under 10 minutes in, Jordan Smotherman grabbed that crucial goal and sparked celebrations among the Giants fans.

Last time around, the Belfast side had to overcome the reigning Elite League champions Cardiff Devils to lift the cup.

Successfully retaining the title will provide a welcome boost at the business end of the season, with the Giants still chasing the Devils in the race to win the league, while the playoffs are also looming.