Storm move into sixth with win over Steelers

Photo: Mark Ferris

Manchester Storm put a dent in Sheffield Steelers' league title hopes with a 3-1 win over their rivals from across the Pennines, moving themselves into sixth ave Nottingham Panthers in the process.

The Steelers started the quicker and took an early lead thanks To Alex Graham getting the final touch on a loose puck in front of the net after Jeremy Brodeur spilled the puck. Anthony DeLuca didn't miss Matt Greenfield's net by much as the Storm grew into what became a very even opening period, although at the other end Matt Petgrave did everything except find a finish to put the Steelers up by two.

Manchester went up a gear in period two and deservedly led after 40 minutes in Altrincham. The equaliser saw a fortunate bounce off the side of the net as Cam Critchlow's pass deflected straight into the path of Stephen Johnson to slot past a stranded Greenfield at 26:19. Just under five minutes later, a wonderful tic-tac-toe play saw Critchlow finish off passes from Cole Carter and Johnson to put Storm ahead at 31:59. In between those goals, Brodeur pulled off a fantastic save reaching back with his stick to stop the visitors tying the game.

Early in period three, Sam Jones miscontrolled the puck which allowed Johnson to skate through and beat Greenfield to make it 3-1 with 42:24 played. The home side had chances through DeLuca to extend their lead but couldn't beat Greenfield a fourth time.

Steelers Head Coach Aaron Fox pulled Greenfield with over two minutes to go as his side looked for a way back into the game, but Brodeur was up to the challenge and the home side held on for a big two points.