Sheffield Steelers' Rob Dowd on what makes Nottingham Panthers clashes 'special'
ROBERT DOWD says home ice advantage could be key when Sheffield Steelers head into a swift rematch against Elite League title rivals Nottingham Panthers this weekend.
The teams are locked at the top of the standings on 22 points, the Panthers top by virtue of having won more games in regulation. Danny Stewart’s team edged out the Steelers 4-3 last Saturday 4-3 at the National Ice Centre, but only after a shoot-out.
The two meet again at the Utilita Arena on Saturday (face-off 7pm) with the game set to be a sell-out. Only 400 tickets remained on Thursday night.
“The game against them in their barn couldn't have been any closer, going to a shoot-out,” said Steelers’ captain, Dowd. “It's important for us that home ice is in our favour this time.
"For me, nothing beats these games – from the moment you wake up you feel different, the morning skate, the team meetings – you struggle to get an afternoon nap because your mind is racing, they are special games which I guess is why more than 9,000 will be there.”