Result: Panthers 6-1 Blaze

Photo: Dean Woolley

The Nottingham Panthers got off to a winning start with a 6-1 victory over the Coventry Blaze in a warm-up game for the 2021 Elite Series.

In an even opening period, Sam Duggan put the Blaze ahead at 3:52. The Panthers responded through Brendan Ellis to be tied after 20 minutes. Goals at 35:10 from Robert Lachowicz, and 38:57 by Christophe Boivin, gave the Panthers a two-goal lead heading into the third period.

The Blaze, who were outshot 21-7 through 40 minutes, pushed for a way back into the game but were undone by three goals in just over two minutes to confirm the result: Boivin with a tip at 53:12, Kevin Domingue sniping 24 seconds later, and Mark Matheson rounding things off with 5:23 to play.

A highlights package will be uploaded early on Friday morning!