A late goal from Nick Seitz secured a 2-1 victory for the Genting Casino Coventry Blaze over the Guildford Flames at the Skydome Arena on Saturday, completing a crucial four-point weekend for the Blaze in the Challenge Cup.
Both teams started the game with intensity, but despite a powerplay apiece, the first period ended scoreless. The Flames outshot the Blaze, but Coventry’s goaltender Mat Robson was outstanding from the opening faceoff, standing tall to keep the visitors at bay.
The deadlock was broken at 25.13 when Blaze’s Grayson Constable found the back of the net, converting a rebound from a Chase Gresock shot. Constable’s goal, his second of the Challenge Cup, came as Gresock added to his team-leading tally of eight points (three goals, five assists) in the competition.
However, the Blaze’s lead was short-lived. Guildford capitalised on a two-on-one shorthanded opportunity, with Jack Jacome finishing from Daniel at 31.38.
The second period closed with Flames goaltender Jake Kupsky producing a sensational save to maintain the 1-1 deadlock, setting the stage for a tense final frame.
Kupsky’s stellar performance earned him the Man of the Match honours for the Flames, while Mat Robson, who made 35 saves, claimed the accolade for the Blaze.
The third period saw both goaltenders continue their strong performances, and with just over five minutes remaining, Guildford had a prime chance to steal the win on the powerplay.
However, Coventry’s penalty kill unit was solid giving Nick Seitz opportunity to deliver the decisive blow.
With 1.40 remaining, Seitz pounced on an outstanding pass from Brandon Alderson, slotting the puck home.
The Blaze held firm in the closing seconds, even with the Flames pulling Kupsky for the extra skater, keeping their hopes of Challenge Cup Qualification well alive.
Photo credit: Scott Wiggins
