VIDEO: Finnerty wants to give nothing away to Giants

RYAN Finnerty is keen to avoid giving up any more points at home to title rivals Belfast Giants this weekend.

Doug Christiansen’s team pay a second visit of the season to the Motorpoint Arena, having taken their hosts into overtime last month before the Steelers prevailed on a shoot-out thanks to goaltender John DeCaro’s heroics.

Since then, Belfast have replaced the Steelers at the top of the overall Elite League table having won all five games since.

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The Steelers have stuttered somewhat since their win over Belfast, losing three of their last five games.

After tonight’s visit to Fife Flyers – who Finnerty stresses are much stronger than last season – the Steelers’ coach is keen for his side to get the job done against the Giants inside 60 minutes.

“We gave Belfast what could prove to be a vital point the last time they were here,” said Finnerty. “We were happy to get the extra point but far from pleased with the fact that we let them back into the game from being 4-1 up.

“We’ve just got to get back to playing the way we knows makes us successful.

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“I definitely saw elements of that in Cardiff last Saturday when we were unfortunate to come away with nothing.

“But I saw it for a big portion of the game against Braehead when we won 7-3. We got off to a great start and, although we again let them back into it, the guys stuck with it.

“That’s the kind of effort we need to see every night.”

Tonight’s trip to Kirkcaldy will – like all three visits last season – provide a stern test of Steelers’ title credentials.

Like most teams, Fife have upgraded their roster this season, proving their quality with home wins already in the league against Braehead and Coventry Blaze, while also pushing Belfast close.

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“Fife are definitely stronger this season,” added Finnerty. “Their British guys are more experienced now and they always work extremely hard. It was tough up there last season – it will be again.”

Twitter: @PHarrisonYP

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