The Sheffield Steelers staged a fierce performance but ultimately lost 5-3 to Eisbären Berlin in the first leg of their Champions Hockey League tie. 

Despite stellar goaltending from Matthew Greenfield, Berlin opened the scoring in the 19th minute of the round-of-16 clash. Former Carolina Hurricane man Zack Boychuk found the net after an intense wave of pressure.

The game opened in the second period, with Sheffield battling back. However, Berlin stretched their lead to 2-0 early in the period as Mitch Reinke capitalised on a pass from Liam Kirk. Mark Simpson quickly responded with a perfect tip-in to cut the deficit.

Berlin retaliated, making it 3-1 through Ty Ronning, but Sheffield’s Sam Tremblay fired back with a quick rebound goal. As the period neared its end, Dominic Cormier’s top-corner shot gave the home crowd something to shout about, tying the game at three.

Berlin regained control in the final period, exploiting a missed Steelers power-play opportunity.

Blaine Byron put Berlin ahead in the 44th minute, slotting a low shot past Greenfield. Sheffield pressed hard, but a late tip-in from Leonhard Pföderl extended Berlin’s lead to 5-3, securing a two-goal cushion going into the second leg.

Steelers forward Mark Simpson earned Man of the Match honours for his relentless play and scoring touch. 

Simpson’s efforts, combined with Greenfield’s determined goaltending, kept the game close, though Berlin’s disciplined defence ultimately held firm.

The Steelers now turn their focus to domestic competition. They’ll face the Coventry Blaze at home in a Challenge Cup match before travelling north to battle the Fife Flyers in league play. 

With solid momentum, Sheffield will aim to regroup and secure victories before their second-leg showdown against Berlin.

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