Final heartbreak for Phoenix

Manchester Phoenix suffered heartbreak in the Challenge Cup final as they were beaten 3-1 by Belfast Giants last night.

Leading 4-3 on aggregate from the first leg in Altrincham, the Giants overturned that deficit in the first period and then went on to secure a 6-5 aggregate victory.

But Phoenix will be cursing letting slip a 4–0 lead at home, then allowing the softest of goals to hand their opponents the trophy.

Player-coach Tony Hand scored Phoenix’ consolation goal last night.