Panthers look to stop Steelers' streak

Photo: Dean Woolley

It's a Friday night rivalry clash at the Motorpoint Arena today from 7pm, with the Nottingham Panthers hosting the Sheffield Steelers in Game 14 of the 2021 Elite Series.

An overtime win for the Panthers earlier in the week was only their second victory in six games, but at three points behind off third-placed Manchester the Panthers need to start picking up points in their remaining six games if they want to enhance their playoff seeding and make a run for the trophy.

Sheffield have won five straight games and dominate the series in goals - 34 scored is 10 higher than the next closest team (Manchester), and their average of 5.67 is a clear tournament high. At the back end, the Steelers let in an average of 3.5 per game, which is equal with the Panthers as the series' lowest.

The Steelers are however the most-penalised team in the series thus far. , however the Panthers have the tournament's worst powerplay at 17.39% - they do however boast the best penalty kill, seeing off over 83% so far.

Team news
Ben Bowns looks to be the likely starter for the Panthers as Tim Wallace continues to use both of his GB international goalies. Bowns hasn't played since shipping five in the first period against the Steelers six nights ago and has been nursing an injury picked up during warm-up of that game. Mark Garside remains day-to-day and will be a late decision.

Sheffield goalie John Muse is edging closer to being available again, but starting duties are likely to go to Ben Churchfield this evening. Aaron Fox has an otherwise full roster to choose from.