Giants earn point to qualify

Photos: Al Goold

A dramatic, last-minute equaliser gave Belfast Giants the point they needed to secure qualification from Challenge Cup Group A.

In a game which had long passages of play without whistles, The deadlock was finally broken by Chau Rau poking home a loose puck at 45:32, given after video review. Patryk Wronka levelled for the Giants just over five minutes later,  but with 5:22 left Rau struck again to put the Clan ahead.

Faced with elimination in a competition where they're the defending champions, Belfast pulled Shane Owen and had a late pwoerplay. After sustained pressure, Matt Pelech's shot was tipped in from in front of the net to level with 17 seconds to go. 

In overtime the Clan thought they'd won it, but Scott Tanski's goal was ruled out for being out of time. 

The shootout was won by Belfast for the extra point - while Ben Lake found the net for Belfast, Jordan Heywood, Rasmus Bjerrum and Chad Rau all scored for the hosts to give them the win.