Cardiff Devils secured a 5-2 victory over the Belfast Giants on Saturday night in a fast-paced and eventful Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL) match. The win showcased the Devils’ offensive firepower and resilience, overcoming a determined effort from the Giants at The SSE Arena. Ryan Barrow led the charge for Cardiff with two goals, while Cole Sanford also found the back of the net twice.
The game was characterized by momentum swings and a series of lead changes, keeping fans on the edge of their seats until the final buzzer. Both teams demonstrated skill and physicality, but the Devils’ ability to capitalize on key opportunities proved to be the difference. This result adds another layer to the competitive landscape of the 2024-25 EIHL season, where the Giants had previously held the season championship title.
Early Lead for Cardiff, Giants Respond
The Devils wasted no time establishing their presence, with Ryan Barrow scoring just 85 seconds into the game after a setup from Brett Ferguson. This early goal put the Giants on the back foot, but they quickly responded with pressure of their own. Jordan Kawaguchi had a scoring chance saved, and Karl Boudrias’ shot was blocked. Efforts from Brett Perlini and Josh MacDonald tested Jake Kupsky in the Giants’ net, but the Giants continued to push back. Gabe Bast’s shot from the blue line was blocked, and Gleason Fournier nearly scored, hitting the post. With just a minute remaining in the first period, Scott Conway leveled the score for Belfast, sending the teams into the first intermission tied at 1-1.
Back-and-Forth Action in the Second Period
The second period began cautiously, with a penalty to Cedric Fournier of the Devils providing an opportunity for the Giants. Mike Lee and Bast both tested Ben Bowns in goal, but the Devils successfully killed off the penalty. Cardiff then had a powerplay opportunity of their own after Carsen Twarynski was called for interference, but the Giants’ penalty kill unit held firm. Despite the defensive stands, the Devils regained the lead when Jimmy Oligny’s shot was tipped in by Barrow for his second goal of the night, making it 2-1. However, the Giants once again responded, with Ryan Smith scoring to tie the game at 2-2 before the end of the second period.
Devils Pull Away in the Third
The third period saw the Devils take control of the game. Cole Sanford broke the tie with a breakaway goal, putting Cardiff ahead 3-2. The Devils extended their lead further while on a powerplay, as Sanford scored his second goal of the night, making it 4-2. The Giants pushed hard to get back into the game, with Lee hitting the crossbar, but their efforts were thwarted. With the Giants pulling their goalie for an extra attacker, Josh MacDonald sealed the victory with an empty-net goal, finalizing the score at 5-2.
Belfast Giants 2-5 Cardiff Devils Saturday 7 March 2026
Looking Ahead
The Cardiff Devils and Belfast Giants will face off again today, Sunday, at 4 PM at The SSE Arena. Tickets are still available and can be purchased here. This rematch promises to be another exciting contest as both teams look to assert their dominance in the EIHL. The Devils will aim to build on their strong performance, while the Giants will be eager to avenge their loss and regain momentum.
What do you think the Giants need to do differently in today’s game to secure a win? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
