Ed Courtenay's goal came too late for the Belfast Giants

Early goals from Sean McAslan and Johan Molin put the Panthers 2-0 up but Scott Cameron and Ryan Smith replied to level matters by the end of the first period.

However, goals from Marc Levers and McAslan restored Nottingham's two-goal lead after the middle period.

Coach Ed Courtenay scored to give the Giants hope but Nottingham held on.

Courtenay received a very public vote of confidence from Giants general manager Todd Kelman in midweek but Friday's game was more of the same as the Belfast team's dismal run continued.