Devils sneak past valiant Storm

Photos: David Williams

Cardiff Devils kept up pursuit of Sheffield a the top of the table with a victory over Manchester by the odd goal in five. The Storm could feel unfortunate to leave without a point, especially after a Man of the Match display from matt Ginn who saved 41 shots.

The Devils looked to have got off to the perfect start when Stephen Dixon scored after only 44 seconds but the visitors would lead by the end of the period. Scott Simmonds' shot snuck through Ben Bowns' five-hole at 7:29 to tie the game, before Cameron Critchlow's powerplay deflection put the Storm 2-1 up at 12:41.

Cardiff were unable to find a way past Ginn for the entire middle period, but did eventually manage to break the Storm's resistance midway through the third - Joey Martin given too much room on the powerplay and able to skate in and beat Ginn from close range. Under three minutes later the game was turned on its head when Sam Duggan tipped Gleason Fournier's shot to put the Devils ahead at 53:01.

Duggan's magic proved to be the game-winner despite Manchester's pressure at the end to force an equaliser.

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