Batch suspended, Catenacci fined

Incident in Flames vs. Devils game on 15 September 2024

On Sunday night in Guildford, Devils defenseman #41 Josh Batch was deemed to have been the Aggressor in an altercation which resulted in multiple blows to an unwilling combatant.

With 2:33 left in the game, Devils defenseman Josh Batch is engaged in a puck battle with Flames forward #28 Matt Alvaro. When making a play on the puck, Flames forward #7 Daniel Catenacci makes legal body contact with Batch.

Batch took exception to the contact and cross-checked Catenacci twice as both players skated towards the net. After receiving two cross-checks, Catenacci then slashed Batch between the legs, making contact in the high thigh/groin area. This is Slashing.

Batch then immediately dropped his gloves and delivered multiple blows to an unwilling combatant, forcing Catenacci to defend himself. After both players fell to the ice, Batch continued to throw multiple punches to his opponent. This is an Aggressor. 

Rule 46 - Fighting, EIHL Casebook: Instigator/Aggressor in Final Five Minutes of Regulation Time (or Anytime in Overtime)
A player who is deemed to be the instigator/aggressor of an altercation in the final five (5) minutes of regulation time or at any time in overtime shall be suspended for one additional game, pending a review of the incident.

Effective immediately, Cardiff Devils #41 Josh Batch is fined and suspended for one game. Guildford Flames #7 Daniel Catenacci is fined.