Continental Cup: Cardiff Devils hoping for third time lucky in Europe

After 20 competitive games this season, Cardiff Devils feel they are well placed to progress this weekend and once again reach the final group and compete for the Continental Cup title.

The Welsh club sit top of the EIHL with ten wins and two defeats.

In the newly formatted Challenge Cup Cardiff have been less consistent, with four wins and four losses in their group.

However, as the Devils embark on their trip to Slovakia, they are reasonably satisfied with their progress so far.

“Our form in the league has been pretty good, I think we’re pretty happy with that,” said Martin.

“In the Challenge Cup we still have some work to do, but I think lately we’ve been more consistent so we’re playing with some confidence right now.”

The 36-year-old is happy to temporarily park domestic concerns with two games still to play in Cardiff’s bid to make the Challenge Cup semi-finals. He is also aware that Sheffield Steelers and Belfast Giants can reduce Devils’ Elite League lead with both playing games in hand this weekend.

“We’ve played a few more games than those teams but it’s nice to put them in a position where they must win those games in hand,” added Martin.

“It’s nice to go away for the Continental Cup, it’s a change of pace, a bit of travel, good for team chemistry and bonding.

“It’ll be a great challenge – three games against three great teams, good skating teams, maybe a little less physical than in our league, but teams with a lot of skill and speed.”

Another incentive for the Devils to achieve on the continental stage is seeing Sheffield shock European hockey by reaching the last 16 of the CHL.

On Wednesday the Steelers were drawing their first leg 3-3 with Germany’s most decorated hockey team, Eisbaren Berlin, eventually losing 5-3.

“When you see what Sheffield are doing in the Champions League, it’s impressive,” said Martin.

“It’s good that they’re representing our league and they’re doing a great job.”

Having played for Austrian side Graz 99ers and Norway’s Stavanger Oilers, as well as numerous clubs in North America, the Ontario native hopes Sheffield’s success can bring the EIHL more credit.

“I’ve been saying it for years, I think a lot of people don’t give it the respect it deserves, especially in Europe,” he said.

“So, one way to do that is to be successful in Europe, like they’ve been doing.”

And while Cardiff can further enhance British hockey’s reputation by going one step further in their own European quest, the primary driver is personal.

“We’re highly motivated to win the Continental Cup because this club has never done it, so to have an opportunity where you can win something for the first time in an organisation is special,” added Martin.

“This is a cup that we want to win, and we are determined to.”