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Panthers edge past Capitals

Clarke seals dramatic win north of the border

Last updated: 11th November 2009

McAslan: On target for Panthers

David Clarke's 53rd minute strike was enough to take Nottingham Panthers back to the top of the Elite League table on Tuesday night.

The GB forward pounced with just seven minutes remaining to seal a dramatic 4-3 road success over plucky Edinburgh Capitals.

The two points gained also stops a run of five successive away defeats for Corey Neilson's men.

The Scots had led at the end of the opening period when Mark Smith's third goal of the season sent the home fans into raptures early on.

However the Panthers fought back in the second, goals from Marty Gascon (27.24), Jade Galbraith (28.43) and a powerplay strike by Sean McAslan (34.33) putting the visitors 3-1 in front.

The third period played host to an inspired comeback from Edinburgh - Owen Fussey (42.16) reducing the arrears before Darius Pliskauskas (43.48) restored parity.

And, as a thrilling encounter appeared to be drifting towards overtime, Clarke popped up with his 11th goal of the campaign to put Panthers back above Coventry Blaze on top spot.