Published Saturday, 03 March 2012
Belfast Giants' forward Craig Peacock seals the win (© Michael Cooper)
The clash, which also saw the Giants' top scorer Robert Dowd make a successful return to former club Sheffield, was being billed as the biggest game of the season for both teams.
The result means the Giants, who have won 11 straight, now lead the Steelers by eight points, albeit having played three games more.
The win is a crucial step in the Giants' bid to be crowned Elite League champions this season.
Dowd told UTV before the game: "It's just us and Sheffield - it's a two-horse race now for the title."
"I wouldn't have signed for this club if I didn't think we could go all the way - I definitely think we can," he added.
The Giants' second match of the weekend sees them return to the Odyssey Arena on Saturday to take on Scottish side Braehead Clan.
The home fixture will see a minute's silence held after the sudden death of Fife Flyers Coach Todd Dutiaume's pregnant wife Kelly and their twin babies.
The Elite League and Dutiaume's club have led expressions of shock and sadness over the tragic loss and said their thoughts are with the family.
Friday evening's other game saw the Cardiff Devils beat the Braehead Clan 4-3.