Only 24 games have been played on 6 December across the Elite League’s history, but this date strongly favours home teams. Road sides have won only eight times since 2003. There has been just one shutout recorded on this date, while five games have gone beyond regulation.

In 2006, Cardiff played their first game in the Big Blue Tent on this day, beating Manchester 7-4. Tonight they play Belfast who were their first opponents in the Vindico Arena nine years later.

Guildford host Fife in the day’s early game, having won 60 percent of the league meetings between the teams at the Spectrum with 12 victories in 20 games. Of Fife’s eight wins, two came after regulation. If the game goes beyond 60 minutes, Guildford have never beaten Fife at home in league play.

Cardiff and Belfast have met 71 times in league action in Wales. The Giants narrowly lead the series with 35 wins to the Devils’ 33, with three ties recorded in the years when draws were possible. Nineteen meetings have needed at least overtime, and six shutouts have been recorded, though the most recent was way back in 2012.

With two wins earlier this season, Nottingham extended their strong record in Dundee to 25 victories in 38 games. The Stars have won 13 times over the same period.

Sheffield have dominated their home league meetings with Coventry. The Steelers have 47 wins from 69 games at the Utilita Arena, with 22 victories for the Blaze. Of the 14 games that went beyond 60 minutes, the Steelers have won 12.

Photo: Dean Woolley