SHEFFIELD Steelers' 2-0 victory over Nottingham Panthers to seal the Elite League Play-off crown epitomised their double-winning season.

They ground out the league championship with a stingy defence and great goaltending from Jody Lehman.

And they did precisely the same at the National Ice Centre to smother an offence-minded Panthers side that failed to hit the heights of their 6-2 hammering of Coventry Blaze in Saturday's semi-final.

Goals from Steve Munn (14.50) and Ryan Finnerty (44.37) were enough to frustrate Panthers who had their chances but failed to get past an inspired Lehman.

Unfortunately, on the final hooter, the goalie saw fit to race across to the taunt the Panthers fans rather than celebrate with the Steelers fans.

Full report and pictures in Monday's Evening Post

MATCH FACTS

SHEFFIELD 2, PANTHERS 0

(1-0, 0-0, 1-0

Shots on goal: Steelers 32, Panthers 36 (11/9, 10/16, 11/11

Penalty minutes: Steelers 18, Panthers 14 (8/4, 6/4, 4/6)

Panthers man of the match: Brendan Cook

Referee: Moray Hanson

Attendance: 7,100 (est)