The New Year was ushered in at the Shelter with a thrilling match between Manchester and Sheffield, the latter claiming a 4-2 victory.

An unfortunate turnover by the Storm while attempting to press Sheffield resulted in a costly goal midway through the first period. A clinical bar-down finish from Golod made the most of the two-on-one opportunity handed to the visitors. The Steelers’ lead was soon extended to three, as Balmas and Simpson struck within a minute of each other. Recognising the urgency, the Storm coaching staff wisely called a timeout to steady the team, and no further chances materialised in the remaining five minutes of the opening twenty.

The second period saw an almost complete turnaround from the hosts, who clawed their way back into the contest with a spirited performance. Captain Critchlow cut in from the wing to rifle a shot past Greenfield’s blocker in the 24th minute. Moments later, the packed Shelter witnessed what could arguably be the goal of the season, as every skater on the ice contributed to a stunning build-up. The end-to-end team effort culminated in a first-time finish from the slot by D’Aoust in the 29th minute, nearly raising the roof as Manchester pulled within one goal of their Sheffield rivals.

The Storm battled valiantly in the final period, successfully killing off a 5-on-3 Steelers powerplay to stay in contention. From that moment on, Manchester threw everything they had at Sheffield, but Greenfield stood resolute for his side. An empty-net goal by Tansey in the dying seconds sealed the victory and ensured two points for the Yorkshire outfit.

Words by: Callum Schora