The Belfast Giants have officially been crowned 2025/26 Elite Ice Hockey League champions, securing back-to-back titles with a commanding 4-2 victory over the Nottingham Panthers at the SSE Arena Belfast.
In front of a buzzing home crowd, the Giants delivered a performance worthy of champions—blending composure, resilience, and clinical finishing to seal another historic night for Belfast sport.
First Period: Giants Set the Tone
The game opened at a high intensity, with both sides testing each other early. Nottingham threatened first, but Giants netminder Jake Kupsky stood strong.
At the other end, the Giants began to find rhythm, forcing Panthers goalie Kevin Carr into a string of early saves. The breakthrough finally came late in the period when captain David Goodwin fired home from a tight angle after a clever assist from J.J. Piccinich, sending the SSE Arena into celebration.
Score after first period: 1-0 to Belfast Giants
Second Period: End-to-End Drama
Goodwin doubled the Giants’ lead early on, reacting quickest to a rebound after Scott Conway’s effort struck the post. However, Nottingham responded almost instantly—Ross Armour pulled one back before Cooper Zech levelled the game in quick succession.
With momentum briefly swinging towards the visitors, the Giants showed championship mentality. Mike Lee restored the lead late in the period, finishing from close range after strong work around the crease.
Score after second period: 3-2 to Belfast Giants
Third Period: Champions Seal the Title
The Giants came out with purpose in the final period, determined to finish the job.
A power-play opportunity proved decisive, with Carsen Twarynski forcing the puck over the line after persistence in front of goal to extend the lead to 4-2.
From there, the Giants controlled the game professionally, shutting down Nottingham’s attempts to mount a comeback. As the final buzzer sounded, celebrations erupted across the SSE Arena, with players and fans marking a historic achievement.
Back-to-Back Champions for Belfast
This victory secures consecutive Elite League titles for the Belfast Giants, underlining their dominance in UK ice hockey and cementing their place as one of the league’s top teams.
The atmosphere inside the SSE Arena reflected more than just a win—it was a celebration of a team that continues to deliver for its city and supporters.
What’s Next?
The Giants and the Nottingham Panthers will meet again on Saturday 28 March for the second game of their double-header weekend at the SSE Arena, Belfast, with another sold-out crowd expected.
Final Score
Belfast Giants 4 – 2 Nottingham Panthers
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