League Record So Far;
CARDIFF, WALES; Devils hosted a rampant Panthers side looking to keep their momentum of late ticking over whilst they themselves were looking to snap back to back losses before some road games then a date with destiny for the third time of asking in the Continental Cup.
This was a game that was going to be too close to call, so here are some key takeaways first then some reflections on the Stars game;
1. Driven, determined Devils, cornered Panthers
The first frame was a real pleasure to watch, knowing the team were rolling just 3 forward lines, with the extra 2-way skater, Bayley Harewood serving a suspension from his recent Pitbulls game.
The home team turned the screw and brought the physicality early on against a cagey Panthers team, that saw a lot of good OZ pressure either way, but the Devils had the better of the puck luck and chances, eventually taking a 1 goal lead with around 6 minutes to go.
The SOG went 16:14 which suggests a closer game offensively, but that was inflated for the visitors for a wild call against Sanford, which saw Hugo Roy pull off a great Tom Daley impression. Against form, which is the standard consistency this season, no embellishment was given against him.
The go ahead goal itself was a classy response by Duke, who earlier on took a cross check after being tripped. Neither penalty was given except an interference on a different player. It was hard to make sense of what was happening form their view point, thankfully better heads prevailed, despite the odds.
2. Long scoring streak ends, in ridiculous fashion
The would-be second go ahead goal for the home team got washed out from a review on the ice. This came after theatrics and drama from Panthers goalie Ryan Bednard, who amazingly didn’t get a delay of game penalty, which should have been given, that was inarguable.
The call against MacDonald for no goal however, would be one that will draw out long debate, which even prompted EIHL X/Twitter admins to respond and tag in users, which couldn’t be more unprofessional given what has transpired this season already, especially with their own officials (re; A certain slew footing incident).
A distinct kicking motion should be the foundational tone set to make such a decision, given the puck went off two opposing players’ skates. This was a reason given, but typically not highlighted. Adjusting the foot during a positional battle isn’t a ‘distinct kicking motion’.
It is madness and sheer ignorance to suggest otherwise.
Luckily, this didn’t directly affect the end result, so for those what will continue to debate it, crack a beer and Itoast the men for making the call. At least it was made and not ignored on the play.
His run went to 16 games, putting up
3. Indifferent officials let the players play
As already alluded too, there were some missed calls or outrageously ones given. This could be said both ways according to Panthers coach Danny Stewart who berated the officials as he walked away in defeat.
None could claim this more so than the home team, as the entire barn got on top of them at a couple of key moments, especially as it was a Sunday game and of course, everyone is back to the normal grind the following day.
This frustration would usually get the better of the team in recent years, particularly with players looking to put the body on and take some grievances with them, but this time, with so many down and the game so close to close, with 2 minutes left, Devils were gifted a power play from a blatant and idiotic slash, which ended up being the winner for them.
You would think of all this drama, there would be a high PIMS count, where in fact there was only 6 in total, with Panthers claiming the most.
That power play lifted Devils back into the top 5 of the form table for this special team, as in recent games they have found themselves a groove, especially with O’Brien back.
A lot of high sticks, slashes and cross checks off the play were given a wide berth, the officials wanted this one done quickly too, but as ever, the balance wasn’t always right. They are human after all and when emotions and pressure runs high, things can slip out of hand.
Luckily it didn’t actually boil over, with the better team prevailing.
4. As Devils look to recruit reinforcements, the team survived a weekend slate of games
It has been the most highlighted aspect of the season so far. One of the best in quite some time, certainly since COVID and to date, on par with expectations under Coach Russell.
The only draw back is the level of injuries sustained so far. It was speculated after the squad was announced, being a more experienced team, would create greater risk and therefore higher chances to become prone to injuries.
This was correct.
For the first time in what seems like a long time, the squad didn’t sustain any further injuries after the past weekends battling performances of fatigue, grit, determination and absolutely no quit.
Andrew MacWilliam is expected back this week, which provides needed relief and options at the back, even allowing Mosey to be moved to a forward to bulk up the lines there.
Davies, Barrow, Bowns, Shinkaruk are still a couple weeks out or more.
As for Riley Brandt, the MRI might be reveal the extent to be more serious than expected, I would expect an announcement on that in the coming days with a look to move him to the 90 day IR list.
The expected signing to bring reprieve to the group as O’Brien returned, Isaac Johnson went back to the ECHL and it was announced that players they had lined up, also got injured before being released.
If I were to speculate on who, at least one could have been Brendan Ranford, who would have been an excellent addition.
With options so limited at this stage of the season, the Devils already announced their search will be focused and not based on necessity, this might be a tight turn around.
As we know with Steelers, they scraped a rotten barrel for cover in net, which back fired outrageously on them.
It is somewhat speculated their search has been covering availabilities across the DEL, which speaks of the level they are looking at, likely looking to poach under utilised players to join a tremendous group on the hunt for silverware, both domestically and in ‘European’ competition.
5. 100 goals so far on the season, within 20GP
Some of the smaller details should also get homage to those who celebrate, as Devils reach 100 goals, they are actually 2nd overall in the league for goals scored, behind Steelers (101).
Bowns leads all goalies still after just 16GP and MacDonald leads the way in goals and points, with 20 lamps lit so far in regular season for 35 points.
Devils increased their PK% to 85.54 after shutting down the Panthers in their last game, Blaze just shy of 3% behind them.
Fournier is 2nd on the apple factory endeavour with 20, one behind Regush of the Blaze.
For one of the more controversial stats, the +/- is lead in the league by Evan Mosey (+20) which seems about right. He is a stalwart defender and drives the offense as well, particularly in the last few weeks with such a depleted squad. Some don’t like this stat, but in this case, it rewards a players contribution to their team (more stat cards to come via Patreon).
Three Stars of the past weekend;
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