The Genting Casino Coventry Blaze made it three wins from three on home ice in pre-season, edging the Guildford Flames 3-2 at the Skydome Arena on Sunday thanks largely to a standout performance from netminder Dershahn Stewart.
Coventry were without Artie Buzoverya, Connor Russell and Alessio Luciani, with Stewart given the start in goal and Mat Robson backing up. Despite the absentees, Blaze flew out of the blocks and took the lead just 3.41 into the game, William Boysen driving down the wing and firing through the legs of Flames’ starter Taz Burman.
The advantage doubled at 8.29 while shorthanded, when returning captain Kim Tallberg finished off a turnover created by Mike Pelech with a composed finish to make it 2-0.
Guildford hit back almost immediately on the same powerplay as Marcus Tesnik blasted in from the blue line at 8.46 to cap a thrilling opening spell.
After the frenetic first ten minutes, the Flames began to take control and only a string of big saves from Stewart kept Coventry ahead. Against the run of play, Blaze restored their two-goal cushion at 24.03 – Boysen and Jack Hopkins combining on a hard-working shift to set up Grant Mismash for a simple finish at the back post.
Despite being outshot 19-4 in the second period and 52-16 overall, Coventry carried that 3-1 lead into the third. Guildford’s pressure was finally rewarded 2.07 into the final frame when Sean Comrie’s effort was tipped in by Tyler Preziuso.
Blaze regrouped and continued to carve out chances of their own, Burman denying Jere Vertanen with a superb kick save after Mismash had created the opening. With just over 13 minutes to play, the Flames had a golden opportunity to level when Josh Nixon earned a penalty shot, but Stewart stood tall to preserve the lead.
Guildford threw everything forward in the closing minutes and pulled Burman for the extra skater, but Stewart closed the door to finish with an outstanding 50 saves and secure a 3-2 victory.
The Blaze now turn their attention to competitive action, opening their Challenge Cup campaign with a double-header against the Manchester Storm – away in Altrincham on Saturday (7pm) before returning home to the Skydome Arena on Sunday (5.30pm).
Photo credit: Scott Wiggins
