Second almost safe for Coventry Blaze

COVENTRY Blaze look certain to claim the Elite League runners-up spot after a comfortable 4-2 over the Belfast Giants.

The defeat for the Northern Ireland outfit ensures a disappointing end to a promising season as it was their second home defeat in two days, meaning they will almost certainly finish fourth and face either Cardiff or Manchester in the play-offs.

Things started well for the hosts when Evan Cheverie put them ahead with his 30th goal of the season, before Colin Shields doubled their advantage on 24 minutes.

But that was as good as it got for Belfast, as Coventry roared back into the match, courtesy of goals from Adam Calder and Slyvain Deschatelets.

Russell Cowley's 16th strike of the season edged the visitors in front on 38 minutes, before a fine late goal from Jonathan Weaver sealed the points.

In the race for the play-offs, there was bad news for both Hull Stingrays and Edinburgh Capitals as both sides slumped to defeats on their travels.

Jason Silverthorn scored twice for Cardiff Devils, who ran riot against the Stingrays, chalking up a 7-1 win in the Welsh capital.

While Brendan Cook netted the winner for the Nottingham Panthers, who overcame the Capitals 3-2 in a particularly close encounter at the National Ice Centre.

Elsewhere, Manchester Phoenix ensured Basingstoke Bison's miserable run continues as they crashed to a heavy 7-1 defeat - their 24th loss in a row.

And Sheffield Steelers celebrated their championship victory with a 3-1 win over Newcastle Vipers on home soil.