Ice Hockey: Steelers losing their grip on title

Sheffield's chances of winning the Challenge Cup for the fourth successive year are hanging by a thread after the 3-1 home defeat to London on Saturday night. London's Vezio Sacratini and Sheffield's Scott Allison traded powerplay goals before Maurizio Mansi put London ahead with three minutes left. The Steelers then had Peter LeBoutillier ejected, and Mike Barrie sealed the Knights' win 44 seconds from time.

Nottingham joined Ayr in second place after a 4-2 victory over Manchester at the National Ice Centre. Patrik Wallenberg and Lee Jinman put Panthers 2-0 up and Mark Bultje replied before the hosts had Christian Sjogren ejected for cross-checking.

Barry Nieckar and Kris Miller then traded goals, with Steve Moria sealing the Panthers' fifth win in six games against the Storm this season.