Bobby Robins put the Giants ahead in Wednesday's game

Belfast Giants' hopes of getting back into the Elite League title race suffered a massive blow with this home defeat by leaders Sheffield.

Bobby Robins put the Giants ahead early in the second period but final-period goals by Brad Cruikshank and Ryan Finnerty earned the Steelers victory.

Finnerty hit the powerplay winner for Sheffield in the final minute.

The victory moves Sheffield 10 points ahead of the Giants - although Belfast have two games in hand.

Jason Rushton made a low-key debut for the Giants after starting the game from the bench.

The Giants move on to a weekend double-header against Basingstoke Bison.

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