Canucks claim bragging rights in 3-1 Severn Side derby win.

The Cardiff Canucks delivered a Christmas gift for the home faithful on Saturday evening, defeating local rivals Bristol Pitbulls 2 by a score of 3-1 in front of a raucous crow.

The highly anticipated first meeting between the two sides this season lived up to its billing, with added spice provided by the fact that many current Canucks players previously wore the Bristol jersey. With bragging rights firmly on the line, Cardiff ensured they would be the ones celebrating through the festive period.

The opening frame was a cagey affair, both sides feeling each other out in a period that finished scoreless despite Bristol taking two penalties. The intensity was evident from the outset, setting the tone for what would be a physical, hard-fought derby encounter.

The second period erupted into life. Tempers flared midway through the frame when Sam Bryant dropped the gloves, resulting in matching five-minute fighting majors. Bristol immediately took another penalty for cross-checking, and Cardiff capitalized on the ensuing power play. Viktor Langseth broke the deadlock with assists from Giacomo Raffaeli and Steve Osman.

The lead lasted just five minutes. Bristol's Joseph Malfatti leveled the score with help from Oliver Shone, sending the teams into the second intermission tied at 1-1 and ensuring a tense final period.

The third period belonged to Cardiff. Joseph Tearall restored the Canucks' advantage midway through the frame, finishing off good work from Samuel Davies and Osman. Tearall's goal proved crucial, and his overall performance earned him Man of the Match honors.

With Bristol pushing for an equalizer, Raffaeli sealed the victory late on, assisted by Osman, who had a hand in all three Cardiff goals on the evening. Defenseman Max McEwan's solid performance throughout earned him the Canucks' Cowboy Hat award.

The victory marks an important statement from Cardiff heading into the Christmas break, particularly with Milton Keynes visiting on January 4th. The Canucks have shown they can handle the pressure of derby day and deliver when it matters most.

Get your tickets now for the New Year fixture and be part of another electric atmosphere at the rink.