Post-Game Review

CHL Warm Up Pre-Season Series

Belfast Giants vs Cardiff Devils

If this pre-season head to head was anything to go by, it has set a standard and bar so high, it is mouthwatering with anticipation for the new season.

Tempo, intensity, physicality, skill, pace.

This was the first 90 seconds in the opening part of the game. The first period was dominated by a relentless Devils forecheck and cool under pressure defence, which the home team struggled to overcome for substantial portions of the game.

There was incredible goal tending each way, with Bowns standing like a brick wall in the shootout to deny any biscuits in his basket.

Yes, there was a shootout. In all fairness, that is to be expected in pre-season games, get the practice in. What was unexpected was the gloves being dropped, twice, with the Devils edging those tilts.

The hits weren’t in short supply either. Either way, both teams gave as good as they got and as the game wore on, the fatigue set in, with the opponents only having days to skate together, the groups looked like they had each other backs, even with delicious open ice hits in the mix.

Some errors are undoubtedly expected, which lead to a wicked goal from a great pinch by Davies, to dish the puck to a waiting, unmarked Pietroniro. Gladly accepted.

The other end, skill and net front presence created a collapsing defence to over work and leave the chances generous to the home side. Even Davey Phillips got a lamp going.

Belfasts 6 on 4 advantage, last gasp hand eye co-ordination stunned the Devils bench and awed all spectators from the rink to the seats at home.

Bayley Harewood turned up good for a great snipe to give the Devils their second lead, with another helper from fellow Welshman, Ben Davies. Read up on Harewoods expectations here https://hockeysteve.co.uk/2023/08/20/can-bayley-harewood-crack-the-eihl-devils-roster/

Pietroniro dropped the mitts, as did Brandt who each put their hands up to take note. No doubt the Giants bench will keep an eye on them.

Sanford put the 3rd in, assisted by newcomer Arniel who had a solid game. Sanford had the dangles going with some impressive skill play, equally matched by another newcomer, Cole Ully, who impressed each shift.

Giants kept themselves in the game by producing quality details in the O-Zone, keeping the visitors honest, as at times, the game could have been long beyond their reach.

Credit to both goalies for being dialled in all game. I have a feeling the title hunt will be championed by fine margins.

The shootout itself was won by Bowns, saved by a sudden death play from Crawford, who reminded rival teams and their fans why he is a top player.

My top three players tonight were

Ben Bowns

Cole Ully

Cody Donaghey

Ones to Watch for the Giants; Printz, McLeod and Nazarian.