Sheffield Steelers came from behind to beat fierce rivals Nottibgham Panthers at the Utilita Arena

Sheffield Steelers produced a strong third-period comeback to beat Nottingham Panthers 4-2 at the Utilita Arena.

The Panthers led 2-0 through two goals from Chase Pearson before Brien Diffley gave Sheffield hope late in the second period.

The game then turned quickly after the restart.

Adam Rockwood equalised on the power play at 46:49 before Ryan Tait struck just over two minutes later to put the Steelers ahead for the first time.

Sean Collins then added an empty-net goal in the final minute to complete the comeback and secure the two league points.

Nottingham had taken the lead at 17:52 when Zach O’Brien found Pearson, who finished well past Matt Greenfield.

Pearson doubled the advantage on the power play in the second period, redirecting another O’Brien effort to make it 2-0.

Sheffield responded through Diffley at 38:21, firing through traffic to reduce the deficit before the second intermission.

The Steelers then dominated the third period.

Rockwood levelled from close range after good work from Mitchell Balmas and Olivier Archambault, before Tait reacted quickest to a loose puck in front to make it 3-2.

Nottingham pushed for an equaliser and later withdrew goaltender Kai Edmonds for the extra attacker, but Collins finished into the empty net at 59:09.

The Steelers outshot Nottingham 35-21 overall and 16-6 in the final period.

Rockwood was named Sheffield’s man of the match after a goal and an assist, while the victory was the Steelers’ first home regulation win over the Panthers in 11 attempts.