Chase Pearson scored with 45.4 seconds to go to give Nottingham Panthers a 2-1 win over Manchester Storm at the Motorpoint Arena on Wednesday.
Storm started well and took the lead on an early powerplay, Nick Welsh’s shot going through traffic and into the net with just 1:51 played. The Panthers levelled on a powerplay of their own at 3:55. After Storm’s penalty killers had blocked two shots and been on the ice for over 90 seconds, David Noël’s effort created a rebound for Ross Armour to finish and tie the game.
Kevin Carr made an excellent save to deny Brandon Cutler early in the second period, while at the other end Chase Pearson’s pass to Didrik Henbrant drew a strong sliding stop from Drew DeRidder.
Both sides had chances to win it in the final period, although the Panthers came closest but for DeRidder’s efforts. With the game seemingly heading to overtime, a smart pass from Henbrant into the slot found Pearson, who snapped home the winner with 45.4 seconds remaining.
Storm called a timeout and pulled DeRidder on the next faceoff, but they were unable to find an equaliser and left empty-handed. The Panthers moved into third place, with second still very much in play heading into the final weekend of the season.
Photo: Panthers Images
