Title race hots up as Giants prepare for visit of Devils
Adam Keefe's side take on leaders Cardiff in Belfast
The Belfast Giants are facing a massive weekend double header that will define their season in the Elite League.
They host the Cardiff Devils tonight (Friday) and tomorrow – knowing that defeat will almost certainly rule them out of the title race.
Their opponents are firmly in the driving seat - bringing a three point advantage to Belfast with one game in-hand after 46 games.
The Giants have posted 70 points after 47 games played and are in the race for a first Elite League title since 2014 with the Devils looking to make 2019 a historic three titles in-a-row.
Coach Adam Keefe said "I don't think these games need to be emphasised much more than they already are,"
"We are approaching the games one at a time right now.
"Friday is important - we want to get off to a good start.
“Last Thursday and Saturday (vs Glasgow) we did exactly that. Especially on home ice - we want to give our fans something to cheer about and that will be the focus going into that game."
Keefe added that they needed to “bounce back quickly” if they are to stay in the hunt for league honours.
"These games are real important - anytime you're up against Cardiff..they are four point games, so to speak. It's a good challenge for us - they are a quality side who have won back-to-back championships for a reason,” he said.
“They know how to win."
The series between the Giants & Devils in the 2018/19 season is split with both sides winning two games each - the final two games in the series take place this Friday & Saturday and will prove vital in where the Elite League trophy ends up come the end of March.
"This will be great test for our guys and our club to go up against these guys in two playoff games,” Keefe added.
“I will be looking for our team's best. Given the circumstances, I am certain that our guys will rise to the occasion,”