Nottingham Panthers will face Sheffield Steelers in the play-off championship final at the National Ice Centre after their semi-final victory over Coventry.

Two goals from Bruce Richardson and one each for Kevin Bergin, David Clarke, Brendan Cook and Corey Neilson helped Panthers to a 6-2 victory.

Richardson told BBC Radio Nottingham: "We are ready and we are prepared and that goes for everyone.

"But we also all had fun and when you do that you will get the results."

Panthers were 3-0 ahead after 14 minutes and never looked back. Coventry's only joy came through goals from Danny Stewart and Barrie Moore.

Panthers last met Sheffield in a play-off final in 2004 with the Steelers running out 2-1 winners.

Captain Danny Meyers said: "Sheffield are a real solid team from the forwards to the defence and to their outstanding goalie.

"We know the game will be a war but we're prepared for it.

"I would like nothing more to lift that trophy and hand it to my team-mates as they deserve it so much."

Sheffield beat Cardiff 5-2 in the other semi-final with Jonathan Phillips, Jeff League, Doug Sheppard, Robert Dowd and Randy Dagenais all on target.

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