Challenge Cup Quarter Final 2nd Leg vs Clan

First Leg; 4-3 Devils Lead

RECAP – After a very subpar first period, with horrendous decision making and lack of details, this resulted in a power play masterclass that put them under pressure early on. Adding to the slow start, Pietroniro got thrown for a boarding play.

As the game wore on, the depleted group fought back, in what has become a familiar style, pushing the pace against the home team and grinding each shift. The winner came midway in the final frame, in a game where Brandon Alderson and Trevor Cox lead offensively.

Cox and Crawford lead the team in points (12) for challenge cup duty, whereas the Brit speedster Joshua Waller is level on goals scored with Cox (6), the latter having over twice the ice time in comparison.

This game is not only a must win, it is an important fixture for the organisation, who are in the hunt for every piece of silverware on offer this season.

Sitting 2nd in the league, a final already booked for a non-domestic offering and considering their effort last season, another final is firmly on their objectives for a successful campaign.

Clan have shown they command a punishing power play and can roar into a lead, so home advantage, particularly after their recent travelling would be a welcome boost for the Devils team, in what feels like a game 7 vs their visitors, where a nice rivalry has been building.

Who is hot?

It goes without saying that Justin Crandall is a player on a heater right now, scoring 5 points so far in December, even though Cox and Sanford, including Crawford have been consistent with points, not to mention Alderson, I would expect some input from the new alternate captain Wednesday evening.

It is not just the skaters who have been impressing, net minders Ben Bowns and Tyler Wall have recently been recognised for their efforts, as the tandem have so far proven to be the leagues strongest. Wall stemmed the tide last week after being left out to dry in the opening frame and both goalies were superb in the following fixtures.

I would also expect a similar line up from the last few games and rumour has it, Bayley Harewood is on the team sheet.