As playoff action intensifies, the Nottingham Panthers are set to face the Manchester Storm in a crucial second-leg matchup. This highly anticipated game will take place at the sold-out Motorpoint Arena on Sunday, April 12, 2026, with a face-off scheduled for 4:00 PM. The Panthers enter the contest trailing by one goal after their 2-1 loss to Storm in the first leg held on Saturday, April 11.
Game Overview
The Panthers will aim to overturn the one-goal deficit and secure a place in the Elite League Playoff Finals Weekend. Following Saturday’s game, in which the Storm took an early lead, Matt Marcinew scored a late goal that kept the Panthers’ hopes alive.
Upcoming Matches in the Quarter-Finals
- Belfast Giants (1) vs. Glasgow Clan (8) – Second leg on April 12 at 7:00 PM in Glasgow
- Cardiff Devils (2) vs. Coventry Blaze (7) – Second leg on April 12 at 5:00 PM in Cardiff
- Nottingham Panthers (3) vs. Manchester Storm (6) – Second leg on April 12 at 4:00 PM in Nottingham
- Sheffield Steelers (4) vs. Guildford Flames (5) – Second leg on April 12 at 4:00 PM in Sheffield
Coach’s Insights
Head Coach Danny Stewart reflected on the first leg, emphasizing the Storm’s strong start. “We reset after the first period and liked our performance in the final two periods,” he noted. “Pulling back to within one goal was significant for us.” Despite their earlier setback, Stewart remains optimistic about the second leg.
Team News
The Panthers will be without forward Matt Alfaro due to a lower body injury. Brendan Harris and Jarod Hilderman also missed the first leg after being injured.
Game Day Activities
Fans attending the match can look forward to various activities at the arena:
- Interseal Panthers Vault: The current pot is £1,900. Tickets are £1.
- Chuck-a-Puck: A family-friendly event during intermission, with prizes for participants.
- Shirt Off His Back: A chance to win game-worn jerseys of selected players for £1.
- 50/50 Raffle: Fans can win a cash prize by purchasing tickets at £1 each.
- GVL Jersey Giveaway: A chance to win a Panthers replica jersey during the first-period power break.
- Dance Cam: Show off your dance moves for a chance to win free doughnuts.
Webcast Availability
For those unable to attend, the game will be available for live streaming on Panthers TV. Fans can purchase access to follow the action remotely.
As the Panthers prepare for this pivotal game, the excitement in Nottingham is palpable. The team’s determination to turn the tide against the Storm will be tested, and the fan support will be crucial in this playoff battle.
