Panthers extend Elite League lead with Hull win

NOTTINGHAM Panthers were quick off the mark as they extended their Elite League lead with a 3-1 win against Hull Stringrays.

Bruce Richardson took the lead on a delayed penalty after two minutes and Cameron Mann doubled that advantage just 17 seconds later.

Richardson doubled his tally early in the second period, as Stingrays reeled.

However, Scottish youngster Lee Mitchell brought the hosts back into the game with a quick-fire double before Dominic D'Amour and Sean McAslan completed the scoring for Nottingham.

Coventry goalie Peter Hirsch was in inspired form as Blaze beat Newcastle Vipers 3-1.

Luke Fulghum, Derek Campbell and Brian Lee all scored in the second period to establish control for the hosts while David Longstaff netted a 44th minute consolation effort for Newcastle.

Elsewhere, Belfast Giants exchanged places with opponents Cardiff Devils as Jeff Szwez's double helped them to a 3-1 home win.

And Sheffield Steelers forgot their league woes with a comprehensive 6-1 Challenge Cup win over Edinburgh Capitals - a win inspired by a Joey Talbot's hat-trick.