Blackburn Hawks let a two-goal lead slip at home to high-flying Nottingham Lions, who moved level on points at the top of the English National Ice Hockey League table.

With a full squad at their disposal, Hawks soared ahead early on, scoring a breakaway goal inside the first five minutes, which was converted by Dave Meikle.

The home side doubled their advantage from another quick counter just three minutes later, with Rick Hughes providing the finishing touch.

However, the Lions came roaring back with two goals of their own to level the contest going into the break.

Hawks fell behind less than two minutes after the restart and were unable to convert any of their own chances, as they ended the second period trailing 3-2.

Another goal right at the start of the third period left the hosts with a mountain to climb, however Sam Dunford offered some hope with a neat finish just two minutes later.

Hawks pushed hard for an equaliser, but this left them open at the back and Nottingham added a fifth eight minutes from time.

Assistant coach Gary Buckman said: “We gave it away really. We were 2-0 up, but we took silly penalties once again.

“Our two best forwards, Dave Meikle and Rick Bentham, both took two plus 10s – with Bentham targeted because he used to be a Nottingham player.

“All three lines were absolutely brilliant in the opening 10 minutes.

“We played together and kept a good formation, but then it all went pear-shaped.

“We’ve got the talent and the capabilities to push for the play-offs, it’s just a case of cutting out the indiscipline and silly mistakes.”