LIFE in the Devils' lair was an eye-opening experience for Ryan Finnerty's Braehead Clan on Saturday.

Heading to Cardiff on the back of a five-game winning streak across all competitions, Clan's unstoppable quest for success was interrupted as they lost 5-4 in overtime.

But Finnerty is adamant it was a test for his players which will hopefully stand them in good stead for the season ahead.

The Clan head coach said: "Cardiff close in and are physical against you. It's something which a few of the guys will learn from."

Finnerty, though, was frustrated by a lack of discipline from his own team which saw them rack up 14 infringements and 60 minutes in the penalty box.

"It was the first time we had to come from behind which was a good thing for us to take," said Finnerty, whose side fought back from 4-2 down to take the tie beyond regulation time.

"But we were upset as I thought we had a chance to win. We had a few bad lapses and bad discipline at times which cost us."