Cardiff Devils Defeat Guildford Flames 3-1 in Challenge Cup Opener

Cardiff Devils began their 2026-27 season with a 3-1 win over Guildford Flames in the Challenge Cup at Vindico Arena.

The match saw the Devils fall behind early when Cole Sandford, a former player, scored for the Flames within the first three minutes. However, Josh MacDonald equalized for Cardiff with a deflected shot in the first period, leaving the score tied at 1-1 heading into the third.

Joey Martin assisted on Kohen Olischefski's goal, marking his 700th point in Elite League history, while Nick Welsh secured the victory with a goal late in the game. Ben Bowns, the Devils' goaltender, was named man of the match after saving 45 of 46 shots. Following the game, the Devils will travel to Coventry to face the Blaze, who lost their opening match.