Panthers player-coach Corey Neilson: "Well, that was a real A Corey-book ending . . . just beautiful. Now that's one chapter closed.

"The cup was one of our main goals and now we've achieved it ,we move on to the next one.

"We have to stay focused because we want the league title and the play-offs, too, but let's not diminish this great accomplishment.

"Over the ten games in the competition we were the most successful team and in the end we did what we had to do to win the trophy.

"We played with the mindset that we had to limit some guys' ice-time because they are carrying injuries.

"We had to manage things with the bigger picture in mind but we battled through and I was very proud of the guys."

Panthers' captain Danny Meyers: "Lifting the trophy was even better than I thought it would be.

"As per usual here in Nottingham, we didn't do it the easy way and made it dramatic, right to the end.

"The way Corey set the team up this season we knew what it would be like; but we also know we have the players and have it in us to do what is necessary.

"Even when we were down 3-1 we never panicked.

"Cardiff are an excellent team and it shows just what a good job we did at their place to come back holding a two-goal lead from the first leg.

"When you take over the 'C', the first job is to win a trophy and the best job is to see your team-mates' faces as you pass it on to them at the end.

"It's very, very special for Corey and Adam Goodridge (bench coach) too.

"We are still outsiders for the league and have as good a chance as the other teams for the play-offs.

"But when you have nights like this, it make you want even more so I know the guys will give it their all in the rest of the games coming up."

Man-of-the-match Sean McAslan – captain of Panthers 2008 Challenge Cup winners: "It's an unbelievable feeling. The last time the Challenge Cup was here, I picked it up, so I was so excited all day for Danny.

"I feel so good for him, because I know what it's like.

"It was a real roller-coaster of a game but now we've got that one in the bag we want some more. We haven't done yet."

Veteran Bruce Richardson: "After 13 years as a pro and more than 700 games, that's my first trophy – and it's a funny, unbelievable feeling.

"But that's why we play hockey. At this level, we're not in it to be millionaires, just to win trophies.

"It's great, too, for my kids – all the memories and the pictures of such a great night."

General manager Gary Moran: "Cardiff coach Gerad Adams said earlier in the day that all the pressure was on Panthers – but then it always is.

"We set the bar as high as it can be in Nottingham and when we slip below that bar, people want to criticise us. It will never change.

"Tonight was a special night for everyone involved with the club. But only one team can win the grand slam now."

Club chairman Neil Black: "It's a great night for the boys but after getting this trophy in the bag, all I can say is, one down and two to go.

"We're giving up on nothing."