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GAME THREAD: Panthers V Steelers: CUP: Sat 28th Sep

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NinjaBreadMark
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I'm not sure if this has been talked about in a more designated Challenge Cup post anywhere, but I think these games are more important than a lot of people may be thinking.... we're in a group of 6, where only the top 2 automatically qualify for a spot in the semi-finals. 3rd place has a play off game with the runner up in the other group.

We don't want to be dropping any points in these games and making it hard on ourselves.
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I didn't watch the game, but was following the score last night.

Looking at the stats this morning it looks like we were worthy of the win.

Tracking has us at 64% to win the game, which basically means we created the better chances.

Face offs were 46 to 29 in our favour, which is good to see. Every player finished above 50% on the faceoffs, with Simpson starring again at 63%.

+/- was a bit of a mixed bag. A few +1 and a few -1. Cormier had the worst night with -2.

Overall I'd say a decent night against a Panthers team which I expect to be at the upper end of the table this season.

Regards

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ginger
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Watched the webcast, and was an enjoyable game. Nottingham are much improved over last year - way better in all 3 zones with and without the puck. Their forecheck caused us a few problems, although ice looked like it was awful, with pucks seemingly sticking a bit helping to cause a few turnovers.

Cormier probably had his worst game he's played since he arrived - took many turnovers and poor decision making. Not concerned, just one of those games. Guimond by comparison, was excellent. He looks to now be settling in well.

Balmas/Watling/Leavens all look a little bit frustrated - just not quite clicking yet, but showed flashes so again, not too concerned. Dowd, Ciampini, Juusola and Simpson were all very good again, so I think Fox just needs to keep tweaking until he finds the right combos. I do wonder if we'll see Balmas back with Dowd and Vally, and Watling possibly paired with the Juusola and JJ.

Refs definitely had a bit of a mixed game. A few missed calls that looked pretty clear penalties. Penalty shot was probably the correct call, which Whistle took very nicely. I really think Whis is one of our most gifted scorers when he gets good opportunities. He needs to work out how to make space for himself though so he gets more opportunities. Dowd does it through physicality, so Whis needs to find his way of doing it to take that next step.
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smbmetal
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Watched the highlights. Looked a far better game than the one against Belfast.

I’m not sure it was a penalty shot on Whistle. I’d have been disappointed if that were given against us. But, it’s always good to beat the Panthers :Smiled:
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