The Cardiff Devils got off to a quick lead this Saturday night and never looked back, handing the Giants their first home loss in Elite League play this season in an uncharacteristic low-scoring game.
The Devils controlled the puck very well in the first period, not allowing the Giants to find their rhythm, and through a breakaway goal took the lead.
After a quiet second period, they yet again broke through the Giants line in the third to score another 1-on-1 goal, this time shorthanded. They added on an empty net goal late to clinch the victory.
Devils Off To An Early Lead
The Devils opened the scoring at 7:49, when Justin Faryna raced down the ice unopposed and lifted one over the shoulder of Whistle, whose defence had left him stranded. The goal was assisted by Tyson Strachan and Bryce Reddick.
The Giants had a few good chances to equalise throughout the period but ultimately failed to do so, and were forced to play mostly on the counter due to the possession-based play of the Devils. The Devils outshot the Giants 17-7 in the first period.
Goalless 2nd Period As Devils Maintain Control
The second period was fairly dull with neither side scoring. The Devils slow pace of play didn’t allow the Giants to play the free flowing, high speed game they thrive in. The Devils seemed perfectly content with pulling out a low-scoring win and looked to catch the Giants out of position when they threw too many men forward.
Devils Secure Win And Hand Giants First Defeat In Seven
The Devils tacked on another goal early in the 3rd period at 5:46, with a shorthanded goal scored by Gleason Fournier, assisted by Matthew Myers, again in a 1-on-1 situation.
The Giants put in a final push to pull the game back within reach but Joey Martin of the Devils quickly scored an unassisted empty net goal and put an end to their comeback attempt before it properly started.
Final Score:
Stena Line Belfast Giants 0-3 Cardiff Devils
Giants Man of the Match:
#1 Jackson Whistle
Photo: Press Eye
