Marcinew Scores Late to Boost Nottingham’s Big Night
Manchester Storm beat Nottingham Panthers 2-1 in the first leg of the playoff quarter-final. The match took place on Saturday 11 April 2026, kick-off 9:30pm.
Matt Marcinew scored late to reduce the deficit to one goal. His finish arrived at 57:23.
Early Manchester pressure
Storm struck twice in the opening period to build a 2-0 lead. Kyle Locke opened the scoring at 10:14 with a deflected shot.
Locke then created the second goal at 13:43. His pass found Tyler Hinam at the backdoor for the finish.
Panthers lineup and goalkeeping
Nottingham were missing forwards Matt Alfaro and Brendan Harris through injury. Jarod Hilderman was also ruled out after the warm-up.
Kevin Carr started in goal for the Panthers, with Jason Grande named as backup. Carr produced several important saves before half-time.
Tight middle period
The second period produced no goals. Carr denied Gary Haden on a breakaway to keep the Panthers in the contest.
Nottingham had openings through David Noël and Didrik Henbrant. Storm remained the more dangerous side throughout the session.
Late drama in the third
Brady Gilmour struck the bar as Storm nearly extended their advantage. Nottingham kept pressing for a route back into the tie.
Chase Pearson combined with Mitch Fossier to set up Marcinew for a close-range finish. The late strike made it a one-goal game at 57:23.
Key saves and chances
Carr had earlier denied Stephen Johnson and Zach Sullivan. At the other end, Drew DeRidder stopped Pearson in the third period.
Looking ahead to the second leg
The teams meet again on Sunday in Nottingham for the second leg. The aggregate winner will advance to Playoff Finals Weekend.
The Motorpoint Arena fixture is sold out. The arena is sponsored by FAE Service Solutions Ltd.
How to follow the game
Fans can stream the match via the webcast on Filmogaz.com. Commentary will be provided by Jono Bullard and former Panthers netminder Dan Green.
Marcinew’s late goal scores late and helps boost Nottingham’s hopes ahead of a crucial home return. The tie remains wide open.
