After a disappointing run of results last time out, the Cardiff Devils bounced back in a big way.

The Welsh side secured victories over the Coventry Blaze and Nottingham Panthers to kick off their Elite League campaign.

A great foundation has been laid, with the team looking to kick on from here. Devils responded to back-to-back losses with two fantastic performances, demonstrating the team’s ambition.

First win over the Coventry Blaze this season

Going into Saturday’s encounter, the Devils hadn’t beaten Coventry Blaze this season. They were seeking revenge after being bested a week earlier.

The return of the captain, Joey Martin, gave the squad a boost. It didn’t take long for the captain to make an impact.

He opened the scoring for his side in the first period. The second period was a back-and-forth contest, with both teams having opportunities. Powerplays came and went for both sides, yet goals were challenging to come by.

As the third period started, the Blaze were hunting for an equaliser, with goaltender Ben Bowns impressive, making several crucial saves.

Two empty-net goals from Brett Perlini secured a fantastic win, 3-0, for the Devils. After this victory, the Devils journeyed to Nottingham.

A close encounter with the Panthers

Following their Saturday night victory at the Vindico Arena, Cardiff took on Nottingham away from home.

Throughout the game, goals were scored at a rapid rate, yet the first period was scoreless, with both goaltenders making some great saves. The Panthers dominated the second period.

Scores from Tim Doherty and Mitchell Fossier gave Nottingham a comfortable lead heading into the final 20 of regulation. In the third period, the Devils’ desire to win was evident.

After making some adjustments, Paul Thompson’s team finally broke through with a goal from Riley Brandt. After Brett Perlini’s effort was turned aside, he was the quickest to react, burying the rebound with precision.

Ryan Barrow took the contest to overtime after scoring in the last flickers of regulation. As overtime started, the Panthers had a chance on goal, but Josh MacDonald disrupted the play.

Burrows then scored his second to give his team a massive win on the road. The victory continued the Devils flawless start to their Elite League campaign as they look to build on it.

Around the league and next up

Looking around the league, the Manchester Storm and Guildford Flames got significant results over the weekend. Cardiff sits second in the table behind Manchester but has two games in hand.

Next Saturday, they will welcome Glasgow to Cardiff Bay, as they look for their third win in a row.

The Cardiff Devils began their campaign with purpose, belief growing and the promise of a thrilling season ahead.

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