Steelers lose narrowly in Sweden

Sheffield Steelers lost 5-3 against Sweden’s HV71 in their opening Champions Hockey League game, but gave their hosts an almighty scare along the way.

Goals by John Armstrong, Mike Ratchuk and Robert Dowd had Steelers level at 3-3 early in the third period, but HV71 secured victory with two goals in the last 10 minutes.

Netminder Ervins Mustukovs (above) was in fine form throughout the game, but Steelers’ inability to stay out the penalty box – four of HV71’s five goals came with a man advantage – proved to be their downfall.

Steelers are back in CHL action on Saturday in Austria at Red Bull Salzburg.