D-Man Drew Paris Makes An Impact On Cardiff Devils Debut

Canadian Drew Paris is ready to battle with the Panthers again tonight (Sunday).

The powerful defenceman scored his first goal for Cardiff Devils during their 3-1 win at Nottingham Panthers on Saturday and the teams clash again in Cardiff Bay on Sunday (6pm).

New signing Paris, an imposing 6ft 4ins man with a big shot, says: “I like the city of Cardiff a lot, the facilities at Ice Arena Wales are great, club staff fantastic and our team is awesome.”

Paris, Joey Martin and Sean Bentivoglio scored Cardiff’s goals at in a convincing win at Nottingham, while netminder Thomas Murdy was outstanding with 30 saves from 31 shots.

Paris is a new addition for Cardiff Devils, who were crowned Elite League champions last season.

He has experience of playing on big ice pads in Europe and that will be invaluable when  Devils go into their Champions Hockey League fixtures.

“I’ll provide a mix of offence and defence,” says Paris. “I have a long stick, big body and can move guys from in front of our net. I’m good in the corners, physical and have a good shot on offence.

“My aims are to help the team and be a steady presence out there.

“I’m looking forward to the CHL matches. We’ll be playing against teams from top leagues, but from what I have seen we are going to surprise a few people and come out with some wins.”

Devils have all of their players in South Wales for the 2017-18 season, but they were without defenceman Andrew Hotham in Nottingham. He is likely to play in Sunday’s return fixture at the IAW.

Player-Coach Andrew Lord opted to stay behind the bench against Panthers on Saturday.

Panthers have made big changes to their team for the new season and are still awaiting the arrival of six players – imports Mark Derlago, Raphael Bussieres, Alexander Mokshantsev, Eduard Zakharchenko, Yann Sauve and Brett Perlini.

Devils iced four solid lines and six defence in their first competitive match of the new season.

“Panthers are going to be very good this season,” said Lord “They were missing some key guys, but regardless it is nice to start with a win.

“I thought we looked solid and Thomas Murdy played great. I am pleased for him, he was our best player tonight.”

The next home fixtures:

August

Sunday 13 Devils v Nottingham Panthers (6pm)

Saturday 19 Devils v Braehead Clan (7pm)

Sunday 20 Devils v German DEL team Krefeld Penguins (6pm)

Ticket information for tonight’s game against Panthers at Ice Arena Wales (6pm) is available via 0800 0842 666 or on the club’s official website at cardiffdevils.com