Series could be decided tonight

The Nottingham Panthers are one win away from winning the 2021 Elite Series as they clash with the Sheffield Steelers at 7pm tonight at the Motorpoint Arena.

A 5-3 win in Game 1 yesterday means that the trophy could be awarded this evening if the Panthers win the game in any fashion – the Steelers need a victory to keep the series alive and force a deciding Game 3 on Monday.

After a slow start to the competition, Tim Wallace’s Panthers appear to be peaking at the right time. The team have won five straight games, including three in a row against the Steelers – Sheffield’s last win over Nottingham was on 10 April.

Team news
Panthers’ Head Wallace has a big call to make in net. Despite a flukey third Steelers’ goal, Jackson Whistle had another fine game in net for the Panthers and ended on 92.31% of shots saved – he’s been over 90% in four of the last five starts. Ben Bowns’ last start was eight days ago in a win over the Steelers. Elsewhere the Panthers remain at full strength.

Liam Kirk iced for the entirety of Game 1 after missing the previous two through injury. John Muse is expected to get the start in net again. Josef Mikyska has at least a point in seven straight games for the Steelers.

Photo: Panthers Images