Steelers begin bid for Challenge Cup glory as Steeldogs seek to extend streak

Perhaps as an indication as to where their priorities lie, the Steelers have won three league titles and the post-season play-offs three times each but never the competition regarded by many teams as the poor relation.

Coventry have already lost twice in Group B - one of them a 10-1 thrashing in Nottingham - but will be made to work hard for their first win in the competition, according to Steelers’ British forward Jason Hewitt.

“I don’t know why, but in recent years the Challenge Cup hasn’t been our event at all,” said Hewitt. “There are only three competitions and as players a trophy is a trophy and this one is important.”

“The game on Saturday against Coventry is a tough opener, but I think if we beat them we pretty much kill off their chances of qualification and we make it a three-way fight for the two semi finals slots with Nottingham and Cardiff.”

Steelers’ player-coach Ryan Finnerty said decisions on the injured trio of himself (back), forward Neil Clark (ankle) and defenceman Chad Huttel (concussion) won’t be made until hours before face-off.

Steelers follow up their Cup duel with Coventry with a trip to Cardiff Devils in the league on Sunday.

Sheffield Steeldogs face a difficult task to extend their stay at the top of the English Premier League table when they travel to reigning play-off champions Guildford Flames tonight.

Andre Payette’s team return home for Sunday night’s clash against Basingstoke Bison at Ice Sheffield (5.30pm). The Hampshire club edged out the Steeldogs 3-2 last weekend.