The Genting Casino Coventry Blaze suffered a narrow 3-2 Challenge Cup defeat to Guildford Flames at the Spectrum on Saturday.
After beginning their Challenge Cup campaign with a home win over Cardiff Devils last weekend, the Blaze travelled to the Spectrum high in confidence and they took an early lead when Tyler Kirkup beat Flames goalie Taz Burman at 2.03 for 0-1.
A flash point occurred at 13.19 when Guildford’s Matt Alvaro was assessed a 2+2 penalty for head-butting on Coventry’s James Shearer, but the away side couldn’t convert on their powerplay chance.
Flames found an equaliser at 25.08 as the ever-dangerous Ryan Tait was able to convert an awkward play past Taran Kozun in the Blaze net for 1-1.
Momentum then swung to the home team and after they missed a penalty shot, Peter Crinella was able to make it 2-1 at 36.59 to give the Flames a 2-1 lead after two periods.
Lewis Hook scored the eventual game winner at 45.23 and although Blaze had a response through Shearer at 46.30 it wasn’t enough as the Flames put their first points on the board in the Challenge Cup group.
After two games, the Blaze, Flames and Devils are all tied on two points.
Blaze will return to cup action away from home on Friday 13th October (7.30pm) before facing the Flames at Skydome Arena on Sunday 15th October (5.30pm).
Photo credit: John Uwins
