Simms: Panthers to win Cup

Sky Sports pundit David Simms is backing Nottingham Panthers for victory in the Challenge Cup final.

The Panthers will take on Cardiff Devils in Wales on Sunday in the first leg of the Cup decider after facing them in Elite League action at home last weekend.

Nottingham hold a 4-2 record over Devils this season, and Simms insists the combination of Nottingham's solid form and Devils' poor road display this season tips the odds in the Panthers' favour.
Talent

"Nottingham should win it, but Nottingham should win every game that they play because they have the talent to be the best team," Simms told skysports.com.

"I think Cardiff are good enough in their own building, but if Nottingham blow them out in the first leg there's no way the Devils can come back."

The Devils edged out Belfast to reach the finals, while Panthers overcame rivals Sheffield.

Despite his money being on Nottingham, Simms says if the Devils put pressure on the Panthers in the first leg they could be in with a chance.

"If the Devils can keep it close, Nottingham are a team that don't play well under pressure," added Simms.

"Their coach doesn't do pressure, their players don't do pressure, their club doesn't do pressure.

"The Panthers find it hard to cross the finish line, whether it's playoffs or challenge cups or league titles. Cardiff have to put them under pressure. But I don't think they will."

Success

Both teams have experienced Challenge Cup success in recent years, with the Devils taking the trophy in 2005/06 and the Panthers in 2007/08.

Having witnessed the Panthers' performance numerous times on Sky Sports' weekly Elite League show, Simms insists they are destined for silverware.

"Nottingham have got to win something with that team this year," he added.

"I think they'll be up for it and ready for it and I take them to win."