First for Brits as Knights go on a goal spree

London Knights became the first British team to reach the finals of Europe's Continental Cup after finishing top of their qualifying group in Hamar at the weekend.

Going into last night's final game of Pool O against Storhamar Dragons, Knights had to win by four clear goals to deny Norwegian champions Valerenga the right to go to Zurich in January.

They achieved that easily as a hat-trick from forward Claude Jutras and two goals from Bryan Richardson inspired the Evening Standard-sponsored Knights to a 9-1 victory.

Head coach Chris McSorley said: "I am so proud of my team. We will go to Switzerland as underdogs but we were underdogs coming into this weekend."

London's other goals were scored by Lee Sorochan, Brendan Yarema, Mikko Koivunoro and Randy Perry.

Yarema, the man of the match, said: "It's unbelievable to be one of the top four teams in Europe. Going to Zurich is going to be a great experience."

Knights had put themselves in position to win Pool O after Saturday's 5-0 win over HC Minsk, of Belarus.

Yarema, Darby Walker and Jutras had given London a 3-0 lead by the end of the first period. Dave Morrisette and Richardson completed the rout with netminder Trevor Robins earning his fifth shutout of the season.

Friday's 1-1 draw with Valerenga was achieved despite London playing half the game a man short.

Norwegian referee Lasse Dahl handed out 32 minutes of penalties against the Knights but Robins conceded just one goal against 15 powerplays for the Norwegian champions.

Yarema's first goal of the weekend had given Knights the lead.