Panthers make it 8 straight
Photo: Derek Black
Nottingham Panthers logged their eighth straight win with a 2-1 victory over Dundee Stars in Scotland in front of 1,902 fans at the Dundee Ice Arena.
"I think we started hot with two quick goals," began Brad Bowering, who was playing just his second Elite League game with the Panthers. "I don’t want to say we took our foot off the gas, we had a few chances, but they hemmed us in a bit during the second but Jason played amazing as he always seems to do and we managed to squeak out the win in the end."
The opening period in Dundee was largely controlled by the Panthers, as Zsombor Garát opened the scoring just 02:31 in with a shot from the left circle that beat Jarrett Fiske.
Nottingham doubled their lead just over two minutes later at 04:25, with Mitchell Fossier sending a cross ice pass to Kristoff Kontos, who beat Fiske with a wrist shot. In the end, it would be that period that did the damage for the visitors.
Dundee came close to getting on the board throughout the period, however they couldn’t find a way past Jason Grande and the score remained 2-0 heading into the second period.
Bowering logged 11 minutes and 18 seconds of ice time in his second EIHL game. "It’s amazing, it definitely is a step up" said the defneseman on a two-way deal with Peterborough Phantoms. "My first game in Glasgow was a few months ago now but the first time you step on the ice the speed is noticeable and it takes you a few shifts to get into the game, but it’s just great to be here, be around better players and trying to learn.
"I think it’s a great group of guys, Sam’s a great captain and always trying to spur the boys on. It all seems to be clicking at the moment.”
Three straight minors in the final period didn't help the Stars' hopes of getting back into the game, but with a Fiske pulled and six skaters, the home side pushed for something. Their break through eventually came through Spencer Naas, but too late - with just 19 seconds remaining, giving the Panthers a 2-1 win.
