Challenge Cup: Manchester Storm 2-5 Belfast Giants

Brandon Benedict scored the opener at the Altrincham Ice Arena

Belfast Giants ended a run of four straight defeats with a 5-2 victory over Manchester Storm in the Challenge Cup quarter-final first leg.

Brandon Benedict put the visitors ahead in Altrincham and Craig Peacock made it 2-0 late in first period.

Luke Salazar pulled one back before Mitch Ganzak, Mike Radja and Darryl Lloyd struck for Belfast.

Matt Caria closed the gap but the Giants hold a commanding advantage ahead of next Tuesday's return leg.

It was a winning debut for Belfast's new signing David Rutherford and a much-needed confidence boost for the team.

The Giants will take on Coventry Blaze in an Elite League double-header at the SSE Arena on Friday and Saturday.