A goal with just three seconds remaining sent Genting Casino Coventry Blaze to a 2-1 defeat at Sheffield Steelers in the Rapid Solicitors Elite League.
Jereme Tendler gave Blaze a flying start by claiming his 13th goal of the season at 2.15 but a powerplay marker from Cullen Eddy tied the game at 16.21.
With the game destined for overtime, Jeff Legue produced the game-winning goal at the death to deny Blaze at least a point. 
It was harsh on goaltender Brian Stewart, who made 36 saves in a man-of-the-match performance as Steelers out-shot Blaze 38-15.
Coach Chuck Weber said: “We spent a lot of time defending and you are not going to win many games when you only get 15 shots on goal.
“It was a 1-1 game going into the third period and we got out-shot 14-2 and that is the second time in a row against Sheffield where we have managed just two shots in the third period.
“We got an early goal but were not able to build on that. We just could not sustain enough pressure and then they get a face-off with nine seconds to go and score with three seconds left, which was gut-wrenching.”
Blaze next face bottom-of-the-table Dundee Stars at the Skydome tomorrow night (5.15pm face-off).
Weber added: “Whether we won or lost or got a point tonight, tomorrow was always a must-win game for us.
“We got some help with results from the bottom group around us but we want to take care of our own business and every point is vital now.
“Dundee sit back and play 1-3-1 and wait for your turnovers. They are very patient and wait to capitalise on your mistakes.
“We have seen the size of Cardiff, the work ethic of Braehead and the skill of Sheffield and Nottingham and Dundee will be different again. We have to be prepared for that and find a way to get the points.”
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