tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76106107891140735212024-03-19T03:40:59.307+00:00The Angry BudgieMy thoughts on the Phoenix and Ice Hockey in general. Along with random input on my musical tastes!
Remember....Hockey ain't just a game....its a way of life!coyotes_ukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11403942946817776226noreply@blogger.comBlogger433125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610610789114073521.post-37083261149094071862017-04-06T18:36:00.000+01:002017-04-06T18:36:01.479+01:00The Day My Team Died<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1491499086633_32562" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;">I guess you could argue that this is a follow up post to my 'Tales of Tired Hockey Fan' post from over a month ago. I will admit, I was a little overwhelmed with the response to that post, so many messages of support for the Phoenix came in. Along with some obvious negativity and trollage, to be expected really!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1491499086633_32561" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;">Anyway, this post is to address the news that, by now all of you will know, the Phoenix are no more.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1491499086633_32560" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;">Its really a post about one of the most unusual days in my hockey supporting life. If the previous post was, 'Tales from a Tired hockey fan' this one, certainly in relation to UK hockey is 'Tales from a sleeping hockey fan'. The death of my club, the reaction by the vocal minority have pretty much killed off my interest in UK hockey but, not quite stone dead! I will try and explain!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1491499086633_32559" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;">Its no secret that the past year and a half has been tough as a Phoenix fan, both mentally, physically and financially. 2016/17 season was always going to be tough. So, when an opportunity arose at work, which meant I could finally get to Arizona in an affordable way, checking the Coyote schedule yielded a week where there would be 2 NHL games and 2 AHL games all at Gila River Arena I jumped at the chance. So, the last few days of January and early February, Mr & Mrs Angry Budgie flew stateside, to Arizona to attend the first live Coyote games in my 20 years of supporting the team.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMA6J2SNW6yuQrYa-KWyFozi0u9iVJaBN1eZaWzve6fNa13uQrrQXwuwJLtYuDFksmGy746G5WXOqrCAqts7EgIskWv46he9yKXr2fSAUPnygKhp7OJraMormwYafdgKULn2sioGWQWaw/s1600/P1030818.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMA6J2SNW6yuQrYa-KWyFozi0u9iVJaBN1eZaWzve6fNa13uQrrQXwuwJLtYuDFksmGy746G5WXOqrCAqts7EgIskWv46he9yKXr2fSAUPnygKhp7OJraMormwYafdgKULn2sioGWQWaw/s320/P1030818.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1491499086633_32558" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;">Tickets were in hand for LA and Chicago at Airzona and the Checkers at Roadrunners, all at GRA. I wont go into too much detail on the games as, most of you will have watched NHL anyway. What I will say is, the Phoenix shirts caused alot of interest and interesting questions. We also got to meet up with Sarah Hall, one half of the Den Talk Coyote podcast duo. We also got to meet some other Coyote fans who have quickly become good friends.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1491499086633_32556" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;">So, the day of reckoning, the day which altered my love for UK hockey in a big way. Mrs Angry Budgie and I were relaxing, prior to the LA game, in the entertainment area outside GRA on some sofa's around a fountain. Beautiful blue Arizona skies, lovely and warm, so excited to be finally seeing an Arizona Coyote game when, via twitter, we read the news about the death of our club.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><span style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;">Imagine how far my spirits fell in that moment, on an incredible high about to watch the Coyotes, to learning the club I love and supported for so long has ended. In that moment, surrounded by the Arizona sunshine, other hockey fans, our emotions got the better of us. Such a surreal situation we both were numb, completely numb, not knowing what to make of our feelings. Reading the reaction from friends on twitter and facebook was heartbreaking, we suddenly felt every one of those miles from Manchester. After a good amount of time trying to get our heads around what had happened, we finally had to pick ourselves up and get ready for NHL hockey.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1491499086633_33715" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;">GRA is beautiful, finally walking the halls of my NHL teams arena was special. Going down to ice level to watch warmup and take pictures was incredible. All the while (certainly) my feelings were a little muted given the demise of the Phoenix. Still, watching the game from up in the gods, I was able to enjoy the experience, finally forgetting about UK hockey for 3 hours. The NHL is such a slick show, the Coyotes have a great media show and one hell of a goal horn. That damn thing could be heard across the country!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3hgjX5T-WtLBgpynnMu3HHiZ7PZU9DPY8gY25gWImqZz49RzEo3apxOUaRfG0nIANY2Z__m-G4HxdTr0dKdfmvyRzOL8vjvDWK9k9IEDGvAQ-o5HdcwxQfQba9XAGjY9mfVWbMlHx1UY/s1600/P1030823.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3hgjX5T-WtLBgpynnMu3HHiZ7PZU9DPY8gY25gWImqZz49RzEo3apxOUaRfG0nIANY2Z__m-G4HxdTr0dKdfmvyRzOL8vjvDWK9k9IEDGvAQ-o5HdcwxQfQba9XAGjY9mfVWbMlHx1UY/s320/P1030823.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><span style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;">So, that was the most surreal day in my hockey supporting life, from an extreme high to and extreme low and back again. Watching my life long NHL team while mourning the loss of my UK team all in the space of a few hours. A year and a half of constant negativity from sections of the UK #hockeyfamily, to an organisation/team misappropriating history and being involved in the demise of my club. This has left me numb to UK hockey, I still love the game, I still love the people I have met through it. But, I think my interest solely remains to see those people, its the people I care for, not so much the teams that remain.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1491499086633_33716" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;">Who knows, in the future something may come along that I can get excited about? But, for now, I'll be supporting the Coyotes from Macclesfield, were still in with a shout of the playoffs......until mathematically impossible of course! As for the game in the UK? Im going to take a nap, wake me up when Manchester gets a new rink!</span></span>coyotes_ukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11403942946817776226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610610789114073521.post-22125327700524336972017-01-10T21:05:00.000+00:002017-01-10T21:05:26.479+00:00Tales from a Tired Hockey Fan!<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1484082142358_3878" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;">Unless you have been living under a rock for the past, nearly two years, you will be aware that the Phoenix have been struggling. After playing one full season in Deeside and, so far, half a season in Blackpool things came to ahead on monday evening of this week. It has been no secret that the Phoenix have been struggling and, the planning permission had begun to drag on the Phoenix new temporary home.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1484082142358_3879" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;">Last monday saw the Phoenix announce that, with immediate effect, all imports would be released and, the Phoenix would play the remainder of the season at Widnes using the Wild players to make up the roster. You can imagine the shockwaves this sent through the Phoenix fanbase and the hockey community.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><span style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;">This blog post is not going to deal with the rights and wrongs of the Phoenix saga, neither I, nor any of you readers know enough about the finances of the Phoenix or the planning process to make an informed judgement. No, the point of this post is to talk about the reaction by, not only the Phoenix fanbase but, members of the 'Hockey Family'</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><span style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;">I have been a hockey fan all my life, since I was born, I grew up in a hockey family, even playing the game when I was younger. I was a Devonshire Road Alty fan, then followed (Original) Storm before they went bust. I was a member of the FOMIH which was formed immediately after the Storm's demise and, the same group which helped set up the Phoenix. I have been a Phoenix supporter through thick and thin, recent seasons being thinner than most! I remained a Phoenix fan when Storm v2 was formed, even though they would have been more convenient for me personally to follow. I do not begrudge any fan who made the jump but, things I believe meant I could not support them in Altrincham, I have never agreed with the bought history of the club. But, I have no problem with those who made the jump or, those who returned to watch them. Everyone is entitled to support who they want!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><span style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;">No, the point of this blog, is to talk about what it has been like to be a Phoenix fan, talk about what its like to have had so much mud slung at my club from fellow hockey 'fans' that I could build a new country. To have been told things by people I trust which, would shock many. No, this is the life of a Phoenix fan.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><span style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;">Lets get a few things out of the way first, I am a dyed in the wool Phoenix fan so, if you think everything I say is rose tinted, good for you! Its also been a long time since I wrote anything for my blog so, I apologise if it seems disjointed for example. I am also not going to try and justify anything the Phoenix have done or not done! We pride ourselves, as hockey fans, that the sport is inclusive and, like a family, that we all care for one another and, as fans of a minority sport, have each others backs. Its a big reason I like to use to impress upon people why they should try hockey out instead of football.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1484082142358_3834" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;">It really all began back on that fateful saturday night in Coventry when, just after the Phoenix had qualified for sundays final a statement was put on THF explaining that, effectively, Planet Ice/Silverblades were kicking the Phoenix out of Altrincham. Naturally this went down like a lead balloon in the Phoenix fanbase and, set the worrying in motion. It also quickly revealed a split in the 'Hockey Family' seemingly many people had been itching for a reason to hate the Phoenix and, more than likely hate Neil Morris. The knives were out and, the now infamous thread on a certain hockey forum began its life Following hot on the heels of that bonbshell was the announcement that PISB would be resurrecting the Storm and returning them to the ice in Altrincham. As I said before, a large portion of the Phoenix fan base were fans of (Original) Storm so this was a second shock to the system. The resurrection of the Storm and, the seemingly 'purchase' of (Original) Storm's history angered alot of people. I will admit, PISB's actions and, this purchase of a clubs history is a main reason why I will never set foot in Altrincham or support (New) Storm. </span><span style="background-color: white;"></span><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1484082142358_3871" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;">This now left the Phoenix homeless and, the hard life of a Phoenix fan really began. This is where it felt like the 'Hockey Family' began to break down and, certain very vocal sections starting to take aim at the Phoenix and Neil Morris. For those of us who chose to remain and support the Phoenix, this is when the attacks really began. Seemingly every step from then on, that the Phoenix took, was belittled and ridiculed on social media and hockey forums. Other fans, looked to start taking great pleasure in the hardship now faced by the club. They seemed to enjoy taking shots at the Phoenix fans, even personal attacks against Neil Morris and some Phoenix fans I know well. The Keyboard warriors truly coming out in force! </span><span style="background-color: white;"></span><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1484082142358_3870" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;">So we spent a season travelling to Deeside, hoping that plans for a temporary rink would materialise. It was tiring travelling to North Wales every week but, we did it anyway. I wanted to support my team, see my friends and, bring you the best balcony based podcast in sports! But, the sniping from the trolls, the travel, and the frustrations with the new rink process, and the club almost collapsing from the withdrawl of Red Hockey really took it out of me and I was glad to see the end of the season! We had survived, against incredible odds! As we went into the summer, that feeling of relief slowly gave way to yet more frustration. Planning delays lengthened and, it was decided the Phoenix would play up in Fylde for the start of the season. This news fed the troll machine and the keyboard warriors. Their attacks continuing and becoming down right nasty in some cases. Whether you like the Phoenix or not, whether you hate Neil Morris or not, some of the bile and vitriol being meted out in the Phoenix direction was truly horrible. All this takes a toll on your emotions and love for your club and the sport.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><span style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;">We could live with Fylde, as more concrete news was appearing about the rink but, that too was not without its problems. We went into christmas with still no green light and, players being released and not replaced. Which brings us, more or less, to the press release last monday. </span><span style="background-color: white;"></span><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><span style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;">The Phoenix would release all their imports, including the legend that is Robin Kovar, and see out the rest of the season in Widnes, a PISB facility. In some eyes, this is the Phoenix cutting their cloth to survive, to others, this was confirmation of lies told by Neil Morris and the Manchester Phoenix. With keyboard warriors, ex players, all taking shots this is possibly the first time ive been truly shocked and saddened by the 'Hockey Family'</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Even with the move to Widnes and, without a puck having been dropped, the Phoenix are being blamed. Being blamed for 'muscling in' and 'confiscating' the Womans hockey team of ice time. Come on people? It is Silverblades who decide who gets what ice time in their own facility, and the game in question had been cancelled before the Phoenix arrived! Talk about the 'Hockey Family'!<br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1484082142358_3869" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;">The sheer level of hate that has been directed at the Phoenix has lead to a position I never thought I would get to with hockey, fatigue and a lack of love for the game. Hockey is my life, the Phoenix have been the team I have supported the longest (following the lineage from (Original) Storm) my motto has always been 'Hockey ain't just a game, its a way of life' My wife, in essence had to get into hockey if she wanted to see me when we were dating, she is now as mad a hockey fan as I am.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1484082142358_3868" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;">But, and this is the big one, For nearly two years, the mud slinging, the bashing, the hate, the vitriol that has been sent the Phoenix way, rightly or wrongly, is severely testing my love of the game. Im tired, im tired of the keyboard warriors, tired of the travelling, tired of having my loyalty tested, tired seeing the effect the baseless attacks have on close friends, just tired, tired of the 'Hockey Family'. As ever it is only the minority but, it seems the minority shout the loudest. I have made some amazing friends at other clubs in the UK, most of those have shown amazing levels of support and, this week, they have shown support again. To those of you, thank you!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1484082142358_3867" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;">What im left with is the very unenviable position of, if the Phoenix went bust, if the Manchester Phoenix became the Widnes Phoenix...what do I do? I will not go to Altrincham and, im not going to go to Widnes every week. For the first time in my life, I think I may give up supporting a UK hockey team and throw my allegiances fully behind the Arizona Coyotes.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><br style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;" /><span style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white;">Yours.......a very tired Phoenix fan!</span></span>coyotes_ukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11403942946817776226noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610610789114073521.post-34492907816039364122016-02-23T20:32:00.002+00:002016-02-23T20:33:12.635+00:00Phoenix Rolling - MK Lightning 21/02/16<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1456259366187_7614" original_target="http://mk-lightning.co.uk/report-phoenix-3-2-lightning-21-feb/" style="background-color: white;">Another tough weekend ticked off the list for the Phoenix, facing last seasons League champions then, one of the leagues form teams and current challengers for the EPL title the MK Lightning. Phoenix fans would be forgiven for looking at the weekend and not expecting much by way of points but, for me, the home games vs MK would be the Phoenix best chance of some points.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1456259366187_7620" style="background-color: white;">Saturday night in Telford saw the Phoenix run into penalty trouble with some questionable calls, 3 of the Tigers 7 goals coming with the extra skater the short benched Phoenix just not having enough to stem the flow of goals. Tigers running out 7-2 victors:</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2748/telford-take-advantage-penalty-decisions" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1456259366187_7608" rel="nofollow" saprocessedanchor="true" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2748/telford-take-advantage-penalty-decisions</a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.tigershockeyuk.com/2016/02/tigers-continue-charge-with-victory-over-phoenix/" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1456259366187_7621" rel="nofollow" saprocessedanchor="true" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.tigershockeyuk.com/2016/02/tigers-continue-charge-with-victory-over-phoenix/</a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1456259366187_7622" style="background-color: white;">Sunday, time to re-group and take on the well rested MK Lightning at Deeside. Of the teams at the top of the EPL the Phoenix probably, have the better record against the MK Lightning. Coming into sunday nights game, Phoenix/MK had played each other a total of 5 times with Phoenix having two wins (one in OT) and MK three (with one being in OT). Phoenix icing with just James Archer missing from the lineup and the Lightning, dressing but not icing McPherson and Jarventie.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1456259366187_7623" style="background-color: white;"><b>First Period:</b> Despite the differences in the rosters the opening period saw little difference on the ice. The game opened at a great pace with some great play from both sides. It was the Phoenix who made the early hey and saw Dean Skinns deny Michal Satek after a slick passing move. Steve Fone was then forced into making numerous saves to keep the Lightning at bay, Lewis Hook and Jordan Cownie being two frustrated by Fone. In an end to end but tight game, the first goal was something straight from slapshot. Mark Thomas brought the puck out from the Phoenix zone into centre ice, as both teams were changing lines he lifted a puck towards the MK goal just to create some time for the changing players. Much to everyone's surprise, both on and off the ice, that puck deceived Skinns and went into the MK net. One to watch again on Phoenix TV, absolutely no one on the ice thought much of it, so took an age for everyone to realise it had gone in! Perhaps some hockey Karma coming back the Phoenix way? That goal timed at 19min 17sec.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1456259366187_7624" style="background-color: white;"><b>Second Period:</b> MK upped their game in the second and the Phoenix rose to match it. This created a more open end to end period with chances galore. Hook again going close for the Lightning only to miss his chance. The Phoenix extended their lead shortly after when Stan Gron executed a perfect pass across the net for Jacob Corson Heron to score mid flight at 25min 32sec. Listen to the Phoenix podcast and the interview with JCH at the end for his thoughts on his goal. Robin Kovar then made it 3-0 when he and Baranek broke free up ice to beat Skinns. Rather harshly, Pete Russell chose this moment to yank Skinns and put Jordan Marr in goal, a little unfortunate really! Perhaps that was the spark that was needed as, MK got their own goal in the period when Hook found Emersic, that man always scores against the Phoenix, to get MK back in the game at 31min 57sec.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1456259366187_7625" style="background-color: white;"><b>Third Period:</b> 3-1 with just a period to go was quickly made 3-2 when Bobby Chamberlain found a gap under Fone's pads at 41min 06sec to reduce the deficit to one goal. The Phoenix needed to work hard and stand up to the MK onslaught. Unable to convert on a 5-on-3 opportunity the Phoenix looked to endure a nervous final session but, on the back of a superb performance from Fone the home side finished the job to close-out a good win!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1456259366187_7626" style="background-color: white;"><b>Verdict:</b> A tough weekend and the Phoenix managed a win from it, probably as much as we could have hoped for. The MK Lightning are a very good team but, one I do fancy the Phoenix doing well against. It was a superb all round game from the Phoenix, outshot and outchanced the Phoenix soaked up the pressure and took the chances when they came. A great reward and, a glimpse of what could have been this season!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2749/solid-defensive-display-secures-phoenix-play-place" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1456259366187_7634" rel="nofollow" saprocessedanchor="true" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1456259366187_7633" style="font-family: sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2749/solid-defensive-display-secures-phoenix-play-place</span></a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "segoe ui" , "helvetica" , "arial" , "lucida grande" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br />
<a href="http://mk-lightning.co.uk/report-phoenix-3-2-lightning-21-feb/" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1456259366187_7630" rel="nofollow" saprocessedanchor="true" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1456259366187_7629" style="font-family: sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">http://mk-lightning.co.uk/report-phoenix-3-2-lightning-21-feb/</span></a>coyotes_ukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11403942946817776226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610610789114073521.post-69116709247138317522016-02-18T20:19:00.003+00:002016-02-18T20:19:49.416+00:00Phoenix Rolling - Guildford Flames 14/02/16<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1455826663744_3615" style="background-color: white;">The season marches on and waits for now one, the Phoenix weekend saw a trip along the M62 to visit the Hull Pirates and the most versatile arena in the country. This before welcoming the Flames in the latest instalment of the pyron derby.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">Saturdays away trip saw a clinical Phoenix race out to a 6-0 lead into the third period, the Pirates would get a consolation goal but the Phoenix would head back with the two points. Possibly securing their playoff hopes too.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2744/phoenix-claim-clinical-win-hull" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2744/phoenix-claim-clinical-win-hull</a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">Two points in the bag, the weekend was already a good one for the Phonix. With our season going the way it is, to get 50% of the points available will do for me! Plus, the last time we played the Flames we stole the win so, you never know! What would be certain would be an entertaining game. Both teams lined up on the blue line with similar numbers actually but, the Flames quality across the roster was evident. This would, again, be a tough game for the Phoenix to get some points.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><b>First Period:</b> The game opened with speed, as they always do! The Phoenix would then fall foul of some questionable officiating calls, Martin Baranek was called for tripping which gave the Flames the advantage. The games first goal followed on the resulting powerplay when Ozolins was found free in acres of space on the back post, with about half the goal free, he lit the lamp at 4min 33sec. The Phoenix fought back with Stan Gron getting a few chances close to Richard Ullberg but sadly not able to convert.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1455826663744_3622" style="background-color: white;"><b>Second Period:</b> Phoenix were on the board early in the second period when Phil Hamer intercepted the puck and released Trent Hope who unleashed an awesome shot to score at 24min 28sec. The game continued to swing from side to side and, sadly for the Phoenix, the questionable officials continued to baffle the home fans and Phoenix players. Flames would re-take the lead on another powerplay opportunity when Jez Lundin fired home 4 seconds into the powerplay at 25min 41sec. Midway through the period the Flames were given a penalty shot, probably a fair call to be honest. Ozolins with the chance and was denied by Fone with an excellent pad save. Phoenix clambered back into the game and began to force their own chances, the highlight being a post hit by James Neil.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1455826663744_3623" style="background-color: white;"><b>Third Period:</b> The score was 2-1 Guildford so plenty of time for the Phoenix to get back into the game. That hope was quickly extinguished when the Flames opened up a two goal lead at 41min 39sec when Tom Duggan scored. Satek offered some hope when he scored off a feed from Stan Gron at 43min 14sec. With 10min to go the Flames sealed the game. Two quick goals from Andy McKinney at 50min 13sec and 51min 57sec saw the game won. Janis Ozolins would get his second of the night on a breakaway goal at 56min 58sec to make it 6-2 Guildford.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1455826663744_3634" style="background-color: white;"><b>Verdict:</b> It was disappointing to see the game slip away so much in the third period despite all the hard work in the first 40mins. That being said, the Flames were good for the win. The strength in depth meant they could roll strong lines across the board than the Phoenix. Plus they were more clinical than the Phoenix, chances were there for the home side but, they werent being put away. Had Gron had more luck he could have had a hattrick on his own. With the win in Hull the night before, it wasnt a catastrophic loss, disappointing but not the end of the world!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2745/phoenix-burnt-late-flames" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2745/phoenix-burnt-late-flames</a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.guildfordflames.com/february_14th_v_manchester_phoenix___league" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.guildfordflames.com/february_14th_v_manchester_phoenix___league</a></span>coyotes_ukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11403942946817776226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610610789114073521.post-32289480572622939552016-02-11T19:46:00.003+00:002016-02-11T19:46:47.966+00:00Phoenix Rolling - Sheffield Steeldogs 06/02/16<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1455219846955_6524" style="background-color: white;">Last weekend was quite an important one for the Phoenix, on the ice at least! Over the two days they would be playing the team directly above them in the table (Sheffield) and the team at the foot of the EPL (Bracknell). In the fight for the last couple of playoff spots it could turn out to be a pivotal weekend in that fight. Saturday saw a rare home game for the Phoenix as they entertained the Sheffield Steeldogs, followed by a Sunday away day to face the Bracknell Bees.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1455219846955_6536" style="background-color: white;">Sheffield came to Deeside in 7th place and, for the past month or so, possibly the form team of the EPL. Sheffield were always a hard working team but, this years roster has some added bite (ahem). Big comeback wins against the likes of MK spring to mind. Plus a come from behind win in PS against the Phoenix a week or so ago. Saturday nights game would be tough all round but, one the Phoenix could still win!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1455219846955_6494" style="background-color: white;"><b>First Period:</b> The game opened up with both sides gaining some early chances, Fone and Sedlar in action early. The visitors looked the more likely to score however and, just after the 5min mark the Steeldogs took the lead. At 5 minutes the Steeldogs combined to light the lamp, Hirst and Duncombe combined to provide Lascek with the opportunity and he took it. The Phoenix remained well in the game but were coming up against Sedlar who was in fine form. Moving into the 2nd half of the period Jacob Corson-Heron picked up a 2 minute minor for high sticking. Andy Hirst, set up by Lascek and Squires converted on the extra man advantage to put the Steeldogs up 2-0 by the end of the first period.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1455219846955_6531" style="background-color: white;"><b>Second Period:</b> I must admit, even at this early stage, with the Steeldogs ahead by two, I did not see much chance of the Phoenix getting a result. The Steeldogs are a very hard working team and, when they have a lead, are able to sit on it and defend. The second period followed a similar pattern to the first, Phoenix competing and creating chances only to be denied by Sedlar. Sheffield able to soak up the pressure then change up a gear when needed. Sheffield got the first goal of the period when some excellent play released Ashley Calvert who pinged a shot in off the post to give the Steeldogs a 3-0 lead. The third goal coming at 23min 05sec. The Phoenix finally got on the board approaching the games half way point. Kovar and Gron combined to find Satek clear on the back post who scored at 28min 18sec. Sheffield then sealed the game over a four minute spell, Bosas came up with two goals to put Sheffield 5-1 up. The first coming at 30min 12sec, then with the aid of a deflection made it 5 at 34min 14sec. As the period ticked down the Phoenix did score a consolation goal when Stan Gron weaved his way his way through the Sheffield defence and score at 39min 29sec.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1455219846955_6530" style="background-color: white;"><b>Third Period:</b> With the score at 5-2 Sheffield the points were settled, pride was at stake now. With the result looking all but a formality the Phoenix still worked hard and gave Sheffield a game. That hard work paid off when Jacob Corson-Heron tipped in a pass from Gron to make the score 5-3 at 45min 21sec. Sheffield were able to respond and settle the game, deservedly too, with two goals late in the game. Ben Morgan fired home a superb shot at 54min 19sec and Lascek got a goal soon after. At 55min 42sec his goal making the final score 7-3 Sheffield.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1455219846955_6529" style="background-color: white;"><b>Verdict:</b> A disappointing loss seeing as though the Phoenix were more than equal in the game. Sheffield, though, deserved the win, they work very hard in their own zone to frustrate the opposition, they were able to soak up the Phoenix pressure and Sedlar gave them the basis from which to work. It did seem like Sheffield had a gear or two spare and were able to utilise that when ever the Phoenix got close. </span><span style="background-color: white;"></span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2742/steeldogs-claim-roses-honours" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1455219846955_6538" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1455219846955_6537">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2742/steeldogs-claim-roses-honours</span></a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2742/steeldogs-claim-roses-honours" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2742/steeldogs-claim-roses-honours</a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.pitchero.com/clubs/bracknellbeesicehockeyclub/news/bracknell-bees-2--3-manchester-phoenix-1564536.html" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1455219846955_6544" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1455219846955_6543" style="color: #5f5f5f;">http://www.pitchero.com/clubs/bracknellbeesicehockeyclub/news/bracknell-bees-2--3-manchester-phoenix-1564536.html</span></a></span>coyotes_ukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11403942946817776226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610610789114073521.post-68335215043919949072016-02-02T20:26:00.002+00:002016-02-02T20:28:44.899+00:00Phoenix Rolling - Basingstoke Bison 31/01/16<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1454444257239_9007" style="background-color: white;">Last weekend was a big big test for the rejuvenated Manchester Phoenix, a 3 in 3 game spell which would see the Phoenix play, the leagues in-form team, and the leagues top two teams. Away to the Sheffield Steeldogs friday night the Phoenix would play the team sat above them in the EPL and a team in form and pulling off some great comebacks in recent games. After that, the not so insignificant task of playing the EPL's no.2 squad in the Thunderdome, then the small matter of a game against the EPL leading Basingstoke Bison at the WMMP.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">Friday saw the Phoenix go to Sheffield, and come away, frustratingly, with a penalty shootout loss to the Steeldogs. Phil Spanswick started and finished the game in goal for the Phoenix. By all accounts this was a game we should have won, backed by a superb effort in the net from Spanswick the Phoenix let slip a two goal lead in the last 3 minutes to surrender the W. No goals in OT lead to lottery of a shootout which, on this occasion, did not turn out for the Phoenix. Away in MK the story was reversed, going into the final few minutes it was the Phoenix who pulled back into the game and forced the extra session, netting the winner the Phoenix left with an improbable win. Three points from two games coming into sundays game versus the Bison, I think most Phoenix fans would have taken that prior to puck drop!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="color: #196ad4;"><u><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IVtwrwj09yA" width="560"></iframe></u></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #196ad4;"><u><br style="background-color: white;" /></u></span><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2736/sheffield-claim-roses-honours-shootout" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2736/sheffield-claim-roses-honours-shootout</a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://mk-lightning.co.uk/report-lightning-4-5-manchester-phoenix-aot-30-jan/" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">http://mk-lightning.co.uk/report-lightning-4-5-manchester-phoenix-aot-30-jan/</a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2737/phoenix-stage-comeback-win-mk" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2737/phoenix-stage-comeback-win-mk</a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1454444257239_9121" style="background-color: white;"><b>First Period:</b> Fans around the EPL know that the Bison are one physical team, the Phoenix were treated to that from the first puck drop. Much of it legal, a hell of a lot of it.....less so. The visitors showed from the first minute why they are currently top of the EPL, such strength in depth and awesome pace going forward. It was a quick break down the right wing which brought the games first goal, timed 2min 05sec. After Fone attempted a glove save, it seemed like he thought he had the puck. In reality it had gone behind the net for Balmer to then circle the net, pass out to the front where Ryan Watt was on hand to score. Phoenix tried to get back into the game and put some pressure on Baston, who came up with a fantastic double save from Wood and Kovar. Bison made it 2-0 at 15min 33sec when Joe Greener found the largest 5-hole in the EPL to score. Two goals in the period which, on balance, Fone will want back. He bails us out of so many games its ok to let a few go every now and then. Throughout the period, Mical Satek had been receiving alot of 'attention' from the Bison, all of which culminated in Ryan Watt and Ciaran Long both picking up penalties at the end of the period. Much of the attention given to Satek was less than legal and, if not called, could have lead to some nasty scenes in the game. Not a stellar period from our officials unfortunately!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1454444257239_9122" style="background-color: white;"><b>Second Period:</b> Phoenix needed a big effort to get back into the game and, got the games next goal. After a neat assist from Gron, Satek scored a great back hand goal at 26min 33sec. Having the quality in depth the Bison do, they were able to absorb that goal and step up to restore their 2 goal advantage. A well worked effot saw Lack and Towalski combine for Karpov to score the Bison 3rd goal at 30min 55sec. The Phoenix refused to give up and kept pressing Baston in the Bison goal. The pressure paid off when, at 32min 45sec, Mark Thomas was found on the point, he lined up a slap shot which knuckle balled perfectly into the top left corner. Given where Phoenix TV is filmed, it should be great to watch again! The period would see a decisive moment going into the last 2 minutes of the period. If the Phoenix could get to the locker room just a goal behind, there was still hope in the game. The Phoenix went for a line change and, as Boothroyd went for the bench door, he had one skate on the ice and one on the bench. Phoenix took possession and were called for too-many-men. The scenario is one that happens in all games, no matter what level, and is rarely called. However, as per the rules, it was the correct call! On the resulting powerplay, the Bison would restore their 2 goal lead and alter the flow of the game. One minute into the powerplay Rene Jarolin scored the Bison 4th goal and, although there were still 20min to go, for me seal the result.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1454444257239_9123" style="background-color: white;"><b>Third Period:</b> 20 minutes for the Phoenix to score two goals past the EPL's top team, one of the EPL's best goaltenders and a very physical team. Not impossible, just improbable! The Bison did score the next goal of the game and close out the win, more or less, when former Phoenix forward Shaun Thompson scored at 46min 01sec to make it 5-2. The Phoenix did add a consolation goal at 54min 13sec when Robin Kovar blew past the Bison D and picked out the top corner for a highlight reel goal.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1454444257239_9133" style="background-color: white;"><b>Verdict:</b> A real shame the Phoenix could not get something from the game, on balance an argument could be made for a point for the Phoenix but, the Bison were too good in the end. They were probably the worst team to have as the 3rd game in 3 but, that doesnt get away from the fact they are so damn good. The Phoenix did compete for the entire game but, it did always feel like the Bison had that extra gear in reserve to use when needed. Still, 3 points from that weekend is a great reward for this Phoenix team, many positives to be had!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2739/phoenix-come-short-league-leaders" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1454444257239_9132" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1454444257239_9131">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2739/phoenix-come-short-league-leaders</span></a></span>coyotes_ukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11403942946817776226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610610789114073521.post-21909881829563907672016-01-27T18:35:00.000+00:002016-01-27T18:35:22.380+00:00Phoenix Rolling - Hull Pirates 26/01/16<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1453919529015_19579" style="background-color: white;">The improving on ice fortunes of the Phoenix would be tested with a tough away trip to the Guildford Flames followed up by the visit of the Hull Pirates. The Pirates are a much changed team since the one that began the season and, in the games in WMMP the Pirates have had the upper hand, with an OT and regulation victory. The away trip to Guildford, personally I did not expect much, but the current uptick in form gave hope. In the end a late equiliser in the 3rd lead to the Phoenix securing an extra point, with the Flames taking the 2nd with a winner in overtime, final score 4-3.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.guildfordflames.com/january_23rd_v_manchester_phoenix___league" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.guildfordflames.com/january_23rd_v_manchester_phoenix___league</a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2733/phoenix-find-late-equaliser-lose-ot" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1453919529015_19586" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1453919529015_19585">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2733/phoenix-find-late-equaliser-lose-ot</span></a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1453919529015_19587" style="background-color: white;">A huge amount of credit/thanks must go to the Flames organisation and fans, in an effort to help the Phoenix out they held an auction for a Tom Duggan game worn shirt. At the end of the night, a massive £621 was raised and given to the Phoenix Supporters Trust. A big big big thank you Guildford!!!!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1453919529015_19588" style="background-color: white;">Sunday saw the Hull Pirates come to West Manchester and, prior to the game, a fan forum was held prior to the game where Phoenix owner Neil Morris updated the fans on the fund raising efforts and the future Phoenix plans. Please, please, please, do not form your opinion from The Hockey Forum or twitter, please wait for a club press release (if one will be released) or, listen to the Phoenix Podcast where Chris Beasley (who did attend the meeting) sums up what was said.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1453919529015_19589" style="background-color: white;">Anyway, the visit of the Chocolimes....sorry Hull Pirates.....less Limey these days but still a very difficult team to beat! Phoenix, for the first time (at the WMMP) since about pre-season were able to ice a full roster! James Neil the latest back to the ice after his awful rib injury.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1453919529015_19590" style="background-color: white;"><b>First Period:</b> With the renewed energy the Phoenix have been playing with the past couple of weeks the Phoenix came out the traps flying. Robin Kovar and James Neil having early chances for the Phoenix only to be denied by Raitums. Beginning the season the Pirates had Baston in goal, possibly one of the best goaltenders we have seen in the EPL. After his departure to Basingstoke there was always the worry about the guy coming into those pads. Raitums is a more than worthy replacement. His early showing in the period suggested it could be another long night for the home side. After the initial Phoenix flurry, Hull came back into the game and started carving out their own chances forcing Fone into a couple of excellent saves. The Phoenix had to be clever in their chances to get past Raitums. A Kovar tip in front of goal just went wide the, an acrobatic back hand effort from Satek hit the side of the goal. The period ended scoreless, with Fone facing 6 shots and Raitums 15.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1453919529015_19591" style="background-color: white;"><b>Second Period:</b> The intensity increased in the second period as both sides tried to get the first goal. The game set up to follow a pattern, Phoenix with the possession, Hull defending brilliantly looking to pick the Phoenix off on the breakaway. Tommi Lain had the first effort on the breakout but was denied by Fone. Phoenix hit back with chances falling to Baranek and Gron only for Raitums to come up big. Natham Salem to two excellent opportunities on the breakaway but, like Raitums, Fone was in top form. Baranek had two chances where he picked the puck up on the right wing, blew past the left sided defenceman, only to then attempt lifting the puck over Raitums, but also over the net. Excellent chances but neither resulting in a goal. Like the first, the second ended scoreless, Fone facing 10 shots and Raitums 16shots.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1453919529015_19592" style="background-color: white;"><b>Third Period:</b> Well, it all went off in the third period! With Sam Towner in the box on a 2 min tripping penalty the Phoenix went on the powerplay. After cycling the puck round to Satek behind the goal, James Neil pinched in unnoticed on the back post, Satek quickly moved the puck side to side and out from behind, quick enough for James Neil to score into the empty side of the net. A superb team goal and well finished by Neil, the goal timed at 42min 31sec. The Phoenix then doubled their lead, Phoenix again with the puck in the Hull zone, the puck was passed out to the blueline, where Ben Wood lined up an accurate slap/pass to the far post, when James Archer was ghosting in to tip the shot past Raitums, goal no.2 at 45min 08sec. The Phoenix third line was contributing too, Jacob Corson-Heron pulling off a superb wraparound only for Raitums to just about close the pads over the puck in time. It as in the ensuing melee that Corson-Heron and Nathan Salem dropped the gloves and had a disagreement, both getting 2+2 for fighting. Raitums produced some more fine saves from Kovar and Satek before the game saw its second scrap. After a good hit from Thomas, he and Pasi Salonen had a scrap in the Phoenix zone, both getting 2+2 for fighting and Salonen getting an extra 2 for roughing. The Phoenix imports would combine to score the Phoenix third and close out the game, Satek finding Gron to score at 56min 47sec. A superb 3-0 win for Phoenix, Raitums facing 13 shots in the final session, Fone facing 12, to complete a 28 shot shutout.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1453919529015_19601" style="background-color: white;"><b>Verdict:</b> The Phoenix revival continues with a good good win against a tough Pirates team. Hull, in their previous two visits to the WMMP, picking up a win each time, had to be beaten to stop the sweep on home ice. Throughout the game the Phoenix looked in control and dangerous on the attack. The extra bodies on the bench really helping the recovery of injuries and just, in game fitness. Baranek is really finding his feet and his afterburners, Phil Hamer picking up more and more speed each game. There really is a sense of optimism around the rink which was sadly missing over the festive period!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2734/phoenix-overcome-hull-third-period-blitz" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1453919529015_19600" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1453919529015_19599">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2734/phoenix-overcome-hull-third-period-blitz</span></a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.hullpirates.co.uk/NewsDetail.aspx?NewsID=31" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1453919529015_19596" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1453919529015_19595">http://www.hullpirates.co.uk/NewsDetail.aspx?NewsID=31</span></a></span>coyotes_ukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11403942946817776226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610610789114073521.post-21378073053215852842016-01-12T20:18:00.002+00:002016-01-12T20:18:59.707+00:00Phoenix Rolling - Swindon Wildcats 10/01/16<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1452629417036_19591" style="background-color: white;">This past weekend saw the Phoenix face yet another tough weekend in the EPL. Saturday night saw a trip down to Bison land to take on a team in great form this season. The Phoenix saw Baranek icing again but, were without James Neil and Phil Hamer. Reports from the game suggest it was not a good night at the office for the Phoenix, the scoreline backing that assumption up, Phoenix coming away with a 5-0 drubbing. Head on over to Banners on the Wall for a write up on the game.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2728/phoenix-blanked-basingstoke" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1452629417036_19599" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1452629417036_19598">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2728/phoenix-blanked-basingstoke</span></a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1452629417036_19600" style="background-color: white;">Sunday night at the West Manchester Municipal Pool saw the Wildcats head into Deeside. The Phoenix would see Phil Hamer make his debut and, although he didn't play, James Neil took warm up before the puck drop suggesting his recovery is well on course.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1452629417036_19601" style="background-color: white;"><b>First Period:</b> For the first time in a very long time the Phoenix were starting a game able to roll 3 forward lines, coming into the game though, against a good Wildcats side you would still have fancied the visitors to get the win. Imagine our surprise that, right from the first puck drop it was the Phoenix who took the initiative. For the first 5 minutes of the game the Phoenix played a high and aggressive forecheck which forced the Wildcats into their own zone. The pressure continued and, it was a goalmouth scramble which yielded the games first goal. At 10min exactly Trent Hope would pounce on a loose puck to put the Phoenix ahead. The chances continued to fall for the Phoenix and, Jacob Corson-Heron was unlucky to extend the lead minutes later only to be denied by Lyle. Swindon began to edge back into the game and Carlo Finucci forced Fone into a great stop to keep the visitors at bay. The Phoenix doubled their lead at 14min 41sec when Michal Satek and James Archer raced up ice on a 2 on 1. Archer with the puck held, held and held, gave Lyle the passing eyes who took the bait opening up the top corner. Archer unleashed a pin point shot to give the Phoenix a two goal lead.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1452629417036_19602" style="background-color: white;"><b>Second Period:</b> After a superb second period the Phoenix had to make it a second superb period to have a chance of closing out the game. The Phoenix pressure, remarkably, continued in the early stages as it wasn't until the halfway point until the Wildcats put their first shot in on Steve Fone. That sparked an avalanche of Wildcats pressure in a mad spell the visitors registered 15 shots on Fone but, the Phoenix netminder turned them all away. One goal did come in the period, with the puck bobbling toward the Wildcats blue line, Kovar was on hand to poke check the puck through the Defenceman's leg's and raced clear in on Lyle, after a neat wiggle of the shoulders he slid the puck home. Making it 3-0 Phoenix at 34min 34sec.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1452629417036_19603" style="background-color: white;"><b>Third Period:</b> 40min down 20min to go, the Phoenix needed to play a solid, no mistakes game to close out a deserved win. All the while keeping some of the best offensive talent in the EPL at bay. Usually the third period sees the Phoenix start to suffer from the short bench. This time, maybe it was the addition of Phil Hamer to the bench? Maybe it was Baranek and Kovar establishing a telepathic connection? Maybe it was all that, plus two period of hockey which meant the Phoenix will still going and largely on top in the game. In the first 10mins of the game the Phoenix made it 4. James Archer taking a shot from the blueline which Satek tipped on the way through to beat Stevie Lyle, goal timed at 43min 29sec. A 5th soon followed when Satek scored his second of the game from a superb drop pass from Gron, finding the same top right corner of Lyle's net James Archer found earlier in the game. It was at this point Lyle was changed for Jordan Hedley. The Phoenix pressured Headley in the closing moments but were not able to add any more goals.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1452629417036_19604" style="background-color: white;"><b>Verdict:</b> What a win, and a deserved one too! I remember commenting on the Phoenix Podcast in the first intermission that, the 1st period was possibly the best i'd seen the Phoenix play this season. Then, in the second intermission, it was same again. It was genuinely the best 60mins of hockey I think ive seen in Deeside. Kovar/Baranek is a partnership which, if both stay fit, could fire the Phoenix into the playoffs. Phil Hamer looks to be a great addition, he looked a little rusty and slow(ish) but many years or inline hockey can mean it takes a while to adjust back to ice. That being said, early signs are his presence on the 3rd line with Hope and Corson-Heron elevates that line to a new level. A word also must go to Ben Russell and Trent Hop, the latter getting a deserved Man-of-the-Match award, who both turned in games of the season!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1452629417036_19617" style="background-color: white;">Given all the negativity around the Phoenix this season and, the losses that have mounted up recently, last night was a breath of fresh, positive air! It felt really good driving back east on the M56 that's for sure!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2729/five-star-phoenix-blow-swindon-away" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2729/five-star-phoenix-blow-swindon-away</a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.swindonwildcats.com/news/720/phoenix-depose-wildcats.html#.VpOox9LtlHw" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.swindonwildcats.com/news/720/phoenix-depose-wildcats.html#.VpOox9LtlHw</a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/sport/14194588.BUZZER_REPORT__Manchester_Phoenix_5_Swindon_Wildcats_0" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1452629417036_19614" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1452629417036_19613">http://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/sport/14194588.BUZZER_REPORT__Manchester_Phoenix_5_Swindon_Wildcats_0/</span></a></span>coyotes_ukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11403942946817776226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610610789114073521.post-7231006480021649172016-01-07T20:17:00.000+00:002016-01-07T20:17:10.646+00:00Phoenix Rolling - Hull Pirates 03/01/16<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1452197548809_7221" style="background-color: white;">2016, a new year, hopefully a more positive one for the Phoenix. After the home game v Telford after Christmas was cancelled the home support have had an enforced break from Hockey. Last night saw the home season get back underway after the Chrismtas/New Year period. The visitors to the WMMP this time were the Hull Pirates, their last visit saw the Pirates get their first win of the season with an OT success. Hopefully this time round the Phoenix would come out on top.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1452197548809_7222" style="background-color: white;">Saturday night saw the Phoenix take the drive down the Shropshire and take on their former Red Hockey brothers the Tigers. In what sounded like a close game, with end to end hockey, at least for the Phoenix, was spoilt by a less than balanced officiating performance in the final stanza. It comes to something when, the excellent, commentary team for the game (with slight understandable Tigers bias) were talking about the Phoenix being 'shafted' by the calls! Either way the game ended with a tight 4-3 win for the home side but, an encouraging performance from the Phoenix.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2726/penalty-calls-cost-phoenix-telford" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1452197548809_7224" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1452197548809_7223">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2726/penalty-calls-cost-phoenix-telford</span></a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.tigershockeyuk.com/2016/01/tigers-follow-watkins-call-to-the-letter-against-phoenix/" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1452197548809_7226" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1452197548809_7225">http://www.tigershockeyuk.com/2016/01/tigers-follow-watkins-call-to-the-letter-against-phoenix/</span></a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1452197548809_7227" style="background-color: white;">After making his debut for the Phoenix in Telford the night before, sunday saw Martin Baranek take to home ice for the first time. Baranek coming in to fill the boots of Nico Aaltonen who had to leave due to personal circumstances. Thank you Nico and I hope all is well for you!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=164713" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=164713</a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><b>First Period:</b> The Phoenix and Pirates faced off and got the opening period off to a quick start. Some good end to end hockey saw Fone and Raitums called into early action. The home side began to exert some control on the game looking, almost a completely different team to the past couple of weeks. Its amazing what can happen with a new player icing and the return of an old favourite. Kovar and Gron having some good early chances only to be denied by both Raitums and the pipework! A goal would come in the opening session and, one for the home side. Stanislav Gron was fed by Ben Wood racing up the left wing, Gron unleashed an awesome shot from the left circle which beat Raitums and hit the top corner of the net. The Phoenix ahead at 17min 42sec.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1452197548809_7228" style="background-color: white;"><b>Second Period:</b> Both teams traded chances and goals in the second period. Defence was not a strong point for either team in the game! Its a wonder why both are to the bottom of the table ;). Hull brought themselves level in the game when Tommi Laine scored after a mad scramble round the net, that goal timed at 26min 40sec. The Phoenix then had a run of PP opportunities without success but, after returning to even strength Kovar found Baranek from behind Raitums net, Baranek then finding the top corner to score the Phoenix second and his first on home ice, the goal timed at 36min 13sec. That lead would last all of a minute and a half, the Pirates tenacity forcing the Phoenix into an error and Warren Tait levelling the game once again at 37min 45sec.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1452197548809_7229" style="background-color: white;"><b>Third Period:</b> It was Hull who took the initiative in the final period, just 25 sec in Natham Salem skating up ice along the right wing and nailing a shot past Fone, 40min 25sec with fans still taking their seats! That prompted a response from the home side who upped the pressure. James Archer hitting the post, Baranek also rang the metal work. It was 42min 23sec when the puck found Ben Wood on the blue line who ripped a wrist shop goalwards only for Michael Satek to tip the puck and divert it past Raitums to level the game. That goal lifted the Phoenix and it would be Gron who hit the pipework next. Hull had Tom Ralph ejected for a high stick penalty (match) on O'Flaherty, Gareth did return to the game so, Ralph's penalty should be downgraded. Baranek got his second goal of the game, and gave the Phoenix the lead at 46min 32sec on a superb back hand effort. In a theme of the game James Archer was once again denied by the pipework later on. As mentioned above, defencive performance was not good from either side and, it would be turnover errors that would cost the game for the Phoenix. After turning over the puck in the Pirates zone the Phoenix conceeded two quick fire goals to give the Pirates the regulation win. Lee Bonner equilised at 58min 01sec before Tommi Laine fired his second of the night at 58min 47sec. Game ending with a 5-4 win for Hull.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><b>Verdict:</b> Lets deal with the positives first, with the addition of Baranek and Gron returning the Phoenix looked a different, more positive, team to that of the past few weeks. Hopefully when Phil Hamer suits up and the return of James Neil from long term injury, the Phoenix should look something like a complete team! Sadly, sunday night and especially the third period was filled with defensive errors. 4 of Hull's 5 goals were breakaway efforts, 2 of which came from turnovers in the offensive zone. Last nights game should have been one we targeted for a win, a much much needed one in recent weeks. So to lose, and lose in the fashion we did was very very disappointing! I know I should feel positive about the club, especially after the new additions but, the drive home from the WMMP was a frustrating one!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2727/phoenix-stunned-late-hull-comeback#close" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2727/phoenix-stunned-late-hull-comeback#close</a></span>coyotes_ukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11403942946817776226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610610789114073521.post-30763119520238151152015-12-14T20:09:00.005+00:002015-12-14T20:09:53.824+00:00Phoenix Rolling - Bracknell Bees 12/14/15<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450123413260_4793" style="background-color: white;">Last weekend was a huge one for the Phoenix, after news crept out about the withdrawal of Red Hockey support the Phoenix now face the possibility of not being able to finish the 15/16 EPL season. Saturday night saw the first leg of the 'War of the Roses' against the Sheffield Steeldogs, a game which was proceeded by a fan forum with Phoenix owner Neil Morris. There has already been coverage of the main points that came from that meeting via twitter/various forums so I won't go into detail. Other than to say, in essence, the Phoenix need £90k to finish the season! The impression I got from the meeting was, if the Phoenix can make it to the end of the season, the future is bright, very bright! </span><span style="background-color: white;"></span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450123413260_4799" style="background-color: white;">There are, of course, many fund raising efforts on the go, below I have a summary of what is ongoing and what is to come:</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/supporters-trust"><span style="background-color: white;">Phoenix Supporters Trust</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span></a><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="https://crowdfunding.justgiving.com/manc-phoenix"><span style="background-color: white;">Crowdfunding</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span></a><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><a href="http://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/bens-christmas-jumper-and-santa-hat-challenge">Phoenix Podcast - Ben's Christmas Jumper</a></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><a href="http://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/chriss-christmas-pants-for-phoenix">Phoenix Podcast - Chris Chirstmas Pants</a></span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450123413260_4800" style="background-color: white;"><a href="https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/427484466/ptid-save-our-phoenix?ref=nav_search">@Oobze PTID Kickstarter</a></span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">After all that, there were a few games played! The first leg of the War of the Roses saw both teams playing back up netminders, meaning Phoenix fans got to see Phil Spanswick in action for the first time. The game ended 5-4 to Sheffield which, I will admit, was disappointing. The Phoenix dominated the first two periods but, ran out of steam in the third and Sheffield deservedly worked their way back into the game. Bright spots for the Phoenix were Spanswick having a solid game in goal and, Jacob Corson-Heron dropping the gloves and owning his bought of fisticuffs.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2715/steeldogs-edge-phoenix-war-roses-first-leg" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450123413260_4816" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450123413260_4815">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2715/steeldogs-edge-phoenix-war-roses-first-leg</span></a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">Onto Sunday and a vitally important game versus the Bracknell Bees. If the Phoenix have any hope of extending their season its games like these they need to win.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450123413260_4801" style="background-color: white;"><b>First Period:</b> Despite all the off-ice troubles the Phoenix hit the ice focussed and took the game to the Bees from the first puck drop. Rotating two lines (as that's all they could) the Phoenix kept the shifts short. Bees slowly to give as good as they got and the game settled into end to end hockey. Not the highest of quality but entertaining none the less. The first goal came on the powerplay to the home team. With Matt Foord sitting a 2 minute minor for slashing the Phoenix went on the PP. After cycling the puck, Ben Wood did well to keep it within the offensive zone, he wound up a shot on goal and, via a slight deflection from Robin Kovar the Phoenix took the lead. Goal timed at 11min 36sec.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450123413260_4802" style="background-color: white;"><b>Second Period:</b> After their heroics in Swindon the night before, a one goal lead would not do for the Phoenix. The second began and was only 2min old when the Bees pulled level. A piece of excellent play saw Smital thread a pass out from behind Fone to Kostourek in front to fire home via the post. The game levelling goal coming at 22min 13sec. The game continued with neither side able to control for long periods. Fone pulled off a fantastic save from James Galazzi and Mettam responded to deny an awesome attempt from JCH. The Phoenix were then denied two 2-on-1 opportunities towards the end of the period as both teams went in 1-1.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450123413260_4803" style="background-color: white;"><b>Third Period:</b> With it all to play for in the third the Phoenix, surprisingly, did not look too tired and really took the game to Bracknell. After Mettam had pulled off a great save to deny Trent Hope, the Phoenix did score their second goal. James Archer led the puck into the Bees zone and played a drop pass to Kovar who blasted home from the hash marks to give Phoenix the lead at 43min 25sec. Despite taking the lead the Phoenix continued to pile the pressure on Mettam only for the ninja goalie to deny them. Phoenix were, thankfully, able to closeout the period and the game, despite some 'intresting' calls from Perring in the final 5 minutes.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1450123413260_4817" style="background-color: white;"><b>Verdict:</b> After all the hoo haa off the ice it was so nice to get down to playing some Ice Hockey. Despite the ridiculously short bench the team on the ice played like a 4 line team! They matched the Bees shift for shift and ground out a superb win, a deserved one too! It was so pleasing to see the players come off the ice with a smile on their face and, the victory wave, which has been absent from the WMMP for a while!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2716/depleted-phoenix-see-bracknell" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2716/depleted-phoenix-see-bracknell</a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="color: #5f5f5f;"><u>http://www.pitchero.com/clubs/bracknellbeesicehockeyclub/teams/127211/match-centre/0-2990139</u></span></span>coyotes_ukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11403942946817776226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610610789114073521.post-91832565931872616912015-12-07T19:57:00.000+00:002015-12-07T19:57:00.276+00:00Phoenix Rolling - Basingstoke Bison 06/12/15<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1449517820268_8003" style="background-color: white;">Last night saw a hockey game at the West Manchester Municipal Pool.....other than that......absolutely nothing else happened in the world of Phoenix this past couple of weeks.....nope......nothing!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1449517820268_7959" style="background-color: white;">Ok, so stuff did happen, im not going to go into it on these pages suffice to say, the only place to hear anything close to 100% accurate will be the latest edition of the Phoenix Podcast. On which Neil Morris gave a frank account of all the goings on with Wayne Scholes and Red Hockey. Tambo will also be conducting an interview with WS this week, which will also appear on the podcast. Either added to next weeks show or put up as a stand along episode. There is also a fan forum in Telford Wednesday night which should also offer up more facts, though that will be entirely Telford Tigers focussed. I urge you all, Phoenix fans or not, please don't go on the forums and engage in the endless speculation that has already appeared. Listen to the interviews and make your own minds up!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">Having said all that, the facts are, the Phoenix are in need of funds to help finish the season. Get your thinking caps on, the club will like to hear any good ideas for fund raising. Buy 50/50 tickets, buy shirt raffle tickets, buy merchandise, they are some of the obvious ways to help a club raise funds. Mike Newton (@oobze on twitter) famous for the 'Sons of Storm' kickstarter campaign and associated merchandise is starting up another Kickstarter campaign for the Phoenix under the #PTID moniker. Keep an eye on his twitter for updates, I (@theangrybudgie) will retweet anything I see to spread the word!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2709/message-neil-morris-wayne-scholes" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1449517820268_7962" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1449517820268_7963">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2709/message-neil-morris-wayne-scholes</span></a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">Housekeeping done? Check! Onto sunday nights hockey!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">High flying Basingstoke Bison came to Deeside boasting a rather impressive roster. Recently bolstered by the arrival of Rene Jarolin and Jon Baston on injury cover. Despite the different league placing, no game on saturday meant the Phoenix were as fresh as they could be.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><b>First Period:</b> The game began with some great end to end hockey, both Fone and Baston were called into action early and both able to turn away the opening exchanges. Both sides saw their PP units out onto the ice but could not convert. With play being even through the opening minutes the Bison stunned the home crowd by opening up a 2 goal lead either side of the halfway point in the period. Aaron Connolly got the visitors off the mark at 8min 03sec then, former Phoenix man, Shaun Thompson doubled their lead at 12min 34sec. The Phoenix worked back into the game and began to shade play a little, with Michal Satek being denied by the excellent Baston.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1449517820268_7964" style="background-color: white;"><b>Second Period:</b> Like the first period, the opening minutes were a little hectic for the Phoenix. Some mad max style defence thwarted the Bison then, after those opening skirmishes the home side settled and came into the game. End to end action once more and, like the first, it was the Bison who would light the lamp first. Tomas Karpov slaloming up the ice and unleashing a pin point shot to Fone's top right corner. Unstoppable shot...no arguments here! The Bison 3rd timed at 33min 22sec. Like the first period, the Phoenix worked their way back into the game and, were finally rewarded less than a minute later. Michal Satek finding a gap in Baston's defences off a pass from Kovar timed at 34min 04sec. The Phoenix advance was halted when Trent Hope picked up a slashing penalty giving the Bison the advantage. After some superb play by the Bison Rene Jarolin scored what felt like the game winning goal, the Bison's 4th at 38min 34sec.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1449517820268_7973" style="background-color: white;"><b>Third Period:</b> No goals were scored in the third period but, the Phoenix put their all into finding a way back. Edging the play during the final 20mins the Phoenix began to set up camp in the Bison goal. Excellent chances fell to Kovar and James Neil but, as he had been doing all game and against the Phoenix when playing for Hull, Baston shut the door and closed out the game.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1449517820268_7965" style="background-color: white;"><b>Verdict:</b> After a tumultuous week the Phoenix hit the ice and put in a very good performance against an excellent Bison side. A 4-1 loss is still a loss but, given the Bison had hammered Telford 7-0 the night before, 4-1 is a good result. One thing that is sure, this team will give its all week in week out, no matter what is going on off the ice. Just wish the scoreboard would reflect that effort a bit more!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2710/phoenix-unveil-supporters-trust-ahead-loss-bison" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1449517820268_7967" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1449517820268_7966">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2710/phoenix-unveil-supporters-trust-ahead-loss-bison</span></a></span>coyotes_ukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11403942946817776226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610610789114073521.post-86915215443950041172015-11-23T20:54:00.000+00:002015-11-23T20:54:00.800+00:00Phoenix Rolling - Peterborough Phantoms 22/11/15<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1448311957880_4788" style="background-color: white;">The weather turned this past weekend, the cold winds were blowing in, the first weekend of proper hockey weather. That meaning those mad few of us would, in the freezing wind, go and sit inside an ice rink for a few hours of a sunday evening. Sunday in the West Manchester Municipal Pool saw the Phoenix host the Peterborough Phantoms a game which, personally speaking, I would be delighted if the Phoenix managed to get a point from! Just being realistic! The Phantoms have a better/deeper squad and, possibly, have been the best team I have seen against the Phoenix so far this season!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1448311957880_4799" style="background-color: white;">Saturday the Phoenix made the trip, once again, down to Swidon for what seems like the umpteenth time in a couple of weeks! Traditionally not a place the Phoenix have done well in so again, a point would be nice. Early signs were not good when the Wildcats raced to a 4-1 lead by the end of the second. But, credit the Phoenix they worked hard and, with less than a minute to go, made it 4-3. While still a loss, it was a great (almost)comeback and one which made the scoreline look a little more respectable.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2703/phoenix-edged-swindon" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2703/phoenix-edged-swindon</a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.swindonwildcats.com/news/662/wildcats-return-phoenix-to-the-ashes.html" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1448311957880_4801" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1448311957880_4800">http://www.swindonwildcats.com/news/662/wildcats-return-phoenix-to-the-ashes.html</span></a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/sport/14095221.BUZZER_REPORT__Swindon_Wildcats_4_Manchester_Phoenix_3" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/sport/14095221.BUZZER_REPORT__Swindon_Wildcats_4_Manchester_Phoenix_3/</a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1448311957880_4802" style="background-color: white;"><b>First Period:</b> In some long awaited good news the Phoenix started the game with Gareth O'Flaherty back on the ice, the extra skater really making a difference as the Phoenix came out the traps quickly. Despite the Phantoms superior strength and depth it was the Phoenix who created the first chance, when Kovar was denied by Auzins. The Phantoms were then handed 1min 50sec of 5 on 3 when Mark Thomas, then Luke Boothroyd were sent to the penalty box in quick succession. 5-on-3 against the Phantoms, it would only be a matter of time before the breakthrough was made? In the end the Phoenix defended the short handed period perfectly, denying the Phantoms. Michal Satek standing out on the point of the triangle not giving the 'quarterback's on the blue line a chance to shoot. That gave the Phoenix some excellent momentum, they had their own PP a few minutes later, with Will Weldon in the box on a hooking call the Phoenix set up in the Phantoms zone. Cycling the puck round, Nico Aaltonen found Ben Wood free in front of goal who cooly slotted past Auzins for the games first goal, time at 9min 53sec. Into the second half of the period and the Phantoms began to get going. A quickfire double silenced the home crowd, Milan Baranyk and Ales Padalek giving the visitors the lead with goals at 12min 05sec and 12min 26sec. The first a poor rebound given up by Fone, all the Phoenix D being tied up giving Baranyk oodles of time to round Fone, wait for him to commit, then slot into the empty net. The second goal a long shot from the point which saw the faintest of deflections to deceive Fone. The news from the first period did not get any better when Stan Gron had an awkward collision with Martins Susters which saw Gron remain on the bench with an ice pack to the jaw....he did not return to the game.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><b>Second Period:</b> There was little goalmouth action in the second period until the very end. Both teams traded chances and, except for the first 5 mins, the Phoenix more than held their own and even dominated for large stretches. It was in the dying moments the Phantoms were able to break up a Phoenix attack, break up ice and score a well worked goal. However, it was immediately washed out for goalie interference, to be fair to Matthews, he was well placed and washed the goal out straight away. Decisive at least!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><b>Third Period: </b>20min to go, the Phoenix more than equal, would the home side get a reward for this rather than come up short? They battled hard in the third and again, the difference in roster was not apparent. With Gron off the ice the Phoenix rotated the top line to include all 3 import forwards at a time with Ben Wood, giving some added size and speed. The hard work was rewarded as the period moved into its second half. After Kovar had circled the zone and put in a shot, Nico Aaltonen was on hand to score the rebound with a deft back hand over Auzins. With some of the rebounds Auzins had been giving up it was about time the Phoenix got in there to mop up! Neither side was able to score the winner so, to OT we go!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1448311957880_4807" style="background-color: white;"><b>Overtime:</b> Overtime began with the Phantoms controlling possession but being unable to camp out in the Phoenix zone. Fone made some excellent saves as the Phoenix pressured to create a turnover. When it came, Michal Satek was released up the boards, with pace to burn he rounded the Phantoms D and, with Auzins committing to the poke check early, was able to flick the puck over and into the net, giving the Phoenix their first OT win in ages!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><b>Verdict:</b> It feels like I have had to write about good Phoenix performances not getting the deserved result. How refreshing to report that, the good performance was rewarded with a W! The Phoenix more than competed and deserved the win against a very good Phantoms side. The Phantoms are very quick, very slick with the passing and well drilled. Auzins looked a little shakier in the game compared to previous games and the Phoenix took advantage. I thought Auzins 'telegraphed' his poke check in OT, which is not meant to take away from Satek's finish, it truly did deserve to be the game winner!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2704/phoenix-topple-phantoms-ot" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2704/phoenix-topple-phantoms-ot</a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.gophantoms.co.uk/phoenix-3-2-ot-phantoms/" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.gophantoms.co.uk/phoenix-3-2-ot-phantoms/</a></span>coyotes_ukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11403942946817776226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610610789114073521.post-16734420005369900182015-11-22T11:54:00.000+00:002015-11-22T11:54:04.808+00:00Phoenix Rolling - Swindon Wildcats 15/11/15<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1448192259370_11148" style="background-color: white;">Hoping to build on the 4 point weekend previously the Phoenix had a trip across the Pennines to take on the Sheffield Steeldogs, before heading back home to host the Swindon Wildcats. The Phoenix had to take on the Steeldogs without Gareth O'Flaherty who was suffering with a little concussion he took in the game against the Telford Tigers the previous week. During the game Robin Kovar also picked up an injury so the Phoenix would be two players down for the visit of the Cats. After a quick call, and with kind permission from the Blackburn Hawks, the Phoenix would welcome an old friend back to the roster for one night only. Richie Bentham would, once again, don the Phoenix colours.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">A large and boisterous crowd filled the West Manchester Municipal Pool for the second encounter, in the league, between the Phoenix and the Cats. Tom Perring wore the arm bands and, after a playing of La Marseillaise the puck was dropped.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1448192259370_11070" style="background-color: white;"><b>First Period:</b> It had all the potential for another epic game between the two sides but, it would be tough for the Phoenix. Swindon had the advantage of a much deeper roster, the Phoenix bench shortened by injury. Things did not get off on the right foot for Phoenix fans, within the first 3 minutes the visitors had taken the lead. After excellent passing from McEwan and Taylor, Sam Bullas lit the lamp for the first goal of the game, timed at 2min 23sec. Phoenix re-grouped and started to get back into the game. Breakaway chances fell to Gron and Archer who were both denied by Stevie Lyle. The Phoenix would finally get some reward when Stan Gron broke up a Swindon play in the Phoenix zone and found Satek mid ice. Michal raced up ice and, after pulling an awesome move on Lyle roofed the puck to bring the home side level. His goal timed at 9min 15sec. The period progressed and Richie Bentham began to show what the Phoenix fans were missing. His play bringing some physicality and chippieness to the Phoenix which has been sorely missed. Carlo Finucci took a two minute slashing penalty which put the Phoenx in the powerplay. The Phoenix put immense pressure on the Wildcat net but could not find a way past Lyle, after a break down in play Kostal was able to pick out Hoog who raced clear and slotted home a superb short handed effort, giving the Cats the lead at 16min 56sec. The period would end with the Cats holding the advantage, shots were 12 a piece.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1448192259370_11153" style="background-color: white;"><b>Second Period:</b> In what was turning out to be a fantastic game of hockey to watch, the second period progressed much like the first! Both teams were creating chances but, finding the opposition net minder equal to the shots. The Phoenix had a brief few chances when Jan Kostal then Adam Harding went to the box for hooking and cross checking penalties respectively. The Phoenix were unable to break through and the period ended with the score still, 2-1 Swindon.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><b>Third Period:</b> One more period and one goal is doable for the Phoenix, Swindon however were not reading that script! At 47min 37sec Aaron Nell scored his first of the game to give the visitors a 3-1 lead, thus silencing the lively home support. That silence did not last long, when a superb solo effort from Stan Gron reduced the deficit when he scored at 47min 52sec. Phoenix ramped up the pressure, but Stevie Lyle, showing all his experience kept them at bay, even with some unorthodox saves! With time ticking down the Phoenix pulled Fone for the extra attacker and, rarely, it worked. Ritchie Bentham as if it was meant to be, scored with 20sec to go to force overtime. Needless to say....they are still searching for the roof of the building!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1448192259370_11154" style="background-color: white;"><b>Overtime:</b> Into 3-on3 action we go. Both sides saw chances early on, the highlight for the Phoenix was Mark Thomas coming close forcing Lyle into an unbelievable stop....worth watching Phoenix TV for that one! With time running down it seemed penalty shots were inevitable but, the hockey gods would deal the Phoenix a cruel hand. With just 2.5sec left on the clock, Nell found himself in some space, with the puck and he made no mistake. Taking the shot and taking the win, plus the extra point, down the M5 to Swindon!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1448192259370_11155" style="background-color: white;"><b>Verdict:</b> A real shame for the Phoenix to lose the game with 2.5 to go but, it was a fantastic game overall. Swindon and Manchester are two evenly matched teams and each game between the two, so far, have been fantastic, at least the games I have seen in Deeside! Given the Phoenix recent run of results and form, the past two weekends have seen a real upturn in performance. Thats what makes me not too bothered to have lost sunday night, the performance was there! Could it have been a different story with O'Flaherty and Kovar on the ice? Maybe? I sure hope Neil Morris and Tony Hand can find some budget to have Bentham back, he played very well, got a goal plus a 10min penalty. Phoenix could do with some of that energy!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2700/phoenix-bitten-dogs-sheffield" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1448192259370_11161" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1448192259370_11160">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2700/phoenix-bitten-dogs-sheffield</span></a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2701/late-goal-breaks-phoenix-hearts" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1448192259370_11159" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1448192259370_11158">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2701/late-goal-breaks-phoenix-hearts</span></a></span>coyotes_ukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11403942946817776226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610610789114073521.post-67581699830942981252015-11-09T20:05:00.003+00:002015-11-09T20:05:36.277+00:00Phoenix Rolling - Telford Tigers 08/11/15<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1447099417924_3531" style="background-color: white;">Its been a tough October, a record of 2 wins and 7 losses meant the Phoenix had slipped down the table and the fans were...a little bit....glass half empty! The run of results did coincide with the loss of Stan Gron and Mark Thomas to injury for the most part, the short bench made even shorter. Add in a little bad luck and games were being lost on the odd bad bounce, a call not going their way and a bit of frustration. November arrived, Gron and Thomas came back from injury and results began to improve. First an OT loss to MK brought a point then, saturday saw the Phoenix travel along the M62 to take a superb 6-1 win from the Hull Pirates.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">This all set up the visit of the Telford Tigers to the West Manchester Municipal swimming pool.....sorry Deeside. The Red Hockey brothers would also help to christen, at least in the EPL, the new plexi glass having been installed at the rink. Sadly trading away the EPL's highest assist machine.....the netting! Given the results during October, most Phoenix fans were not predicting a good result for the short benched Phoenix against the 4 lines of Telford but, you can only have 6 players on the ice at a time, you never know!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">Hard work, determination and concentration would be needed for the full 60 minutes!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1447099417924_3513" style="background-color: white;"><b>First Period:</b> The puck dropped and, with a roar of noise from the stands the game got underway. The game was played at a high pace both Steve Fone and Sam Gospel had to be in top form from the first second. Both teams putting the pressure on, Gospel coming up big to deny Trent Hope and Jacob Corson-Heron it quick succession. The visiting Tigers began to exert some control on the game and their slick passing and well drilled moves came to the fore. It was impressive to watch just how quick they could break up Phoenix play in their own zone, then transition up ice into the Phoenix zone in about 3 passes! Stretching the Phoenix legs, already looking daunting for the rest of the game. We had to wait until the final two minutes for the games first goal, with Stan Gron in the penalty box on a hooking call the Tigers PP unit took to the ice. After seeing the Phoenix draw a black on two earlier PP opportunities it was frustrating to see the Tigers score about 30sec into their first advantage. Weaver scoring a peach of a shot from the blue line at 18min 14sec, assists going to Silverthorn and Szabo. The buzzer went with the visitors ahead and, perhaps, the Phoenix a little hard done by in terms of the scoreboard!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1447099417924_3516" style="background-color: white;"><b>Second Period:</b> The second session usually signals a little wobble from the Phoenix but, we couldn't have been more wrong! The home side came out the traps flying, pressing Telford high and disrupting their play. It was a marked difference to the first period, the Phoenix were hounding and harrying and the Tigers play began to breakup and become a little sloppy. Approaching the halfway point and the game really burst to life. With the Phoenix pressing Gospel's goal, Luke Boothroyd put a clever shot in on Gospel, who gave up a rebound and much hell broke lose in the crease. After a few attempts Nico Aaltonen was free on the back post as the puck bounced through to him, Nico scoring the game levelling goal at 27min 23sec and the crowd erupted. A well deserved goal lifted the rink and, that joy was doubled less than a minute later when the Phoenix scored again. Almost a carbon copy when, Luke again with a shot from the point, Gospel again giving up the rebound, this time it was Michal Satek who was on hand and un marked to give the Phoenix the lead. The Phoenix second goal timed at 28min 17sec. Both sides were really up for the game as Gron had another good opportunity for the home side while, Silverthorn was denied by the pipework for the visitors.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1447099417924_3527" style="background-color: white;"><b>Third Period:</b> The final session proved to be a barn stormer, Phoenix deservedly ahead while the Tigers still had one of (if not the) most talented roster in the league. The hockey gods obviously decided to make that W hard to get for the Phoenix. The home side totting up a total of 16 penalty minutes to Telford's 0. That meant putting the lethal Tigers on the PP. Despite many people's fears (mine included) the Phoenix stood tall, worked hard and denied the Tigers on their PP opportunities. Especially as the Phoenix picked up one 2 minute penalty at 55min and then another at 58min meaning they would be short handed to the buzzer to claim the win. Tigers were 5 on 4, then for the last 100sec they were 6 on 4 with the empty net. Phoenix held their shape well in their own zone, Fone stood tall, the fans made the noise and, but for two inches the wrong way, Kovar could have had the empty netter to top off the win. It hit the post but it didn't matter, Phoenix held on for a superb win on home ice.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1447099417924_3526" style="background-color: white;"><b>Verdict:</b> Against MK a few weeks ago I though the Phoenix deserved the W but got the OT loss, last night, Phoenix deserved the W and got it! Tigers still have the better roster on paper but, on the ice, they only showed it for 20mins at most. The Phoenix competed and bettered the Tigers for the majority of the game and got the win to show for it. The Phoenix has been down and battered for recent weeks......now.....the Phoenix is rising once again!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2697/phoenix-hit-hull-six" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2697/phoenix-hit-hull-six</a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2698/back-back-wins-phoenix" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1447099417924_3518" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1447099417924_3517">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2698/back-back-wins-phoenix</span></a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.tigershockeyuk.com/2015/11/tigers-target-return-to-form-after-phoenix-loss/" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1447099417924_3525" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1447099417924_3524">http://www.tigershockeyuk.com/2015/11/tigers-target-return-to-form-after-phoenix-loss/</span></a></span>coyotes_ukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11403942946817776226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610610789114073521.post-69480360451020623562015-11-03T20:50:00.003+00:002015-11-03T20:50:37.945+00:00Phoenix Rolling - MK Lightning 02/11/15<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1446583139996_4842" style="background-color: white;">Phoenix returned to their West Manchester ice after an enforced break due to an ice plant failure and welcomed the MK Lightning. Going into the weekend the Phoenix had been in, fluctuating form, at best! Without a win on home ice in 4/5 weeks the Phoenix would take confidence from the win against MK on home ice against the Lightning earlier in the season.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1446583139996_4841" style="background-color: white;">Saturday night saw the Phoenix take the drive down to the Basingstoke arena to take on the high flying Bison. The game was evenly matched for 40 minutes until the Phoenix seemingly tired in the third period and the Bison rattled off 3 unanswered goals to take the game 4-1.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2693/phoenix-edged-basingstoke" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2693/phoenix-edged-basingstoke</a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">After heading down the M56 once again it was time to take on the Lightning, who brought a good travelling support with them. The MK Lightning, coached by Pete Russell, have an abundance of offensive talent and, arguably, a little light on defence.....think Swindon and your pretty much there. Emersic still leading the lines and, still a player I have admired and wanted on my team. The game also saw Bobby Chamberlain and Jack Watkins take on the Phoenix once again. The game would also see the welcome return, to home ice, of Mark Thomas. A player the Phoenix have missed since his foot injury a few weeks ago. Mark brings great experience and size to the Phoenix blue line and a little relief for the Phoenix D corps.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><b>First Period:</b> It was a steady start to the game, both teams working very hard and shutting down any clear chances quickly. Fone was in top form and Jordan Marr, in the MK net, while looking a little shaky at times, were still turning aside any shot on goal. MK did have the edge on the scoring opportunities though with the Phoenix hemmed in their own zone for large parts of the period. The period ended without a goal being scored.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><b>Second Period:</b> Well, the second period burst into life, 3 goals and two controversial penalty shots. It all started just after the half way point in the game. With the Phoenix third line on the ice pressuring MK back into their own zone, a shot by Corson-Heron was given up for a juicy rebound by Marr for Ben Wood to blast home and open the scoring, the first goal coming at 32min 32sec. The lead did not last long when Lewis Hook received a beut of a pass up centre ice from Michael Farn, with clear ice behind him Hook approached Fone, deaked him and slid the puck through the open 5-hole at 33min 51sec. Parity didnt last long again as the Phoenix re-took the lead 16sec later. Robin Kovar on hand to slot home a rebound from an Archer shot, 2-1 timed at 34min 07sec. The action continued as the Phoenix looked to extend their lead, after a goal mouth scramble a Lightning player closed his hand over the puck in the crease giving the Phoenix a penalty shot. It would be down to Luke Boothroyd to take the shot. After pulling a neat move on Marr, Boothroyd just couldn't lift the puck over Marr's pads and was denied. Minutes later MK were gifted an opportunity to level the game, Bobby Chamberlain being given a rather fortunate penalty shot of his own. Tinted spec's aside, it really was the wrong call by the ref! Either way, justice was done and Chamberlain was denied by Fone.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1446583139996_4847" style="background-color: white;"><b>Third Period:</b> The third period followed a similar ish pattern to the second, not much happening in the first half, only for the game to spring to life in the second half. The Phoenix went on the powerplay, with Bobby Chamberlain in the box on a 2+10 misconduct penalty. Phoenix extender their lead at 54min 05sec when Stan Gron scored off an assist by Robin Kovar. The potent MK offence reduced the deifict soon after when Blaz Emersic scored at 55min 15sec. Into the last two minutes, MK pulled Jordan Marr for the extra skater and Marko Luomala levelled the game with a deflected shot with just 90sec to go.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1446583139996_4895" style="background-color: white;"><b>Overtime:</b> Overtime saw both teams create chances, Phoenix having the slight edge. It would be MK who would score the winner, as OT approached its end and the dreaded penalty shots loomed, Leigh Jamieson was found clear infront of the net by Jordan Cownie to score the winner with just 52sec left in the extra period.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1446583139996_4888" style="background-color: white;"><b>Verdict:</b> A real tough loss to take and, you could see the pain on the Phoenix players as they left the ice. A game in which they dominated for the most part, somehow they ended up losing the game. It was genuinely a result in which the Phoenix can feel hard done by. On top for the majority but it is MK who take the win. The point gained from an OT loss feels much more like a loss than a point gained. Credit to MK though, they took their chances, forced their way back into the game at the end of the third and, took the golden chance in OT. That's how hockey goes some times!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2694/phoenix-stunned-mk-overtime" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1446583139996_4894" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1446583139996_4893">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2694/phoenix-stunned-mk-overtime</span></a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://mk-lightning.co.uk/report-manchester-phoenix-3-4-mk-lightning-aot/" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1446583139996_4891" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1446583139996_4890">http://mk-lightning.co.uk/report-manchester-phoenix-3-4-mk-lightning-aot/</span></a></span>coyotes_ukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11403942946817776226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610610789114073521.post-84836458155312677782015-10-19T20:26:00.005+01:002015-10-19T20:26:52.495+01:00Phoenix Rolling - Swindon WIldcats 18/10/15<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1445282607612_3102" style="background-color: white;">Here we are again, the day after the weekend before, another pair of games ticked off on the EPL calendar. The Manchester Phoenix had games away to the Guildford Flames saturday night before taking on the Swindon Wildcats sunday night in West Manchester. Another tough weekend of EPL hockey, what weekends aren't? A weekend the Phoenix would look to snap a run of losses and get back to winning ways.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1445282607612_3103" style="background-color: white;">Saturday night in Guildford saw a tight game between to good hockey sides on the big spectrum ice. Phoenix took the lead early on but the Flames powered back to take a 2 goal lead early in the third period. A maiden goal for Trent Hope and then another score for Robin Kovar would force OT and then the game was to be decided on penalty shots. Tom Duggan would score the decisive shot for the home team and secure the extra point. Phoenix will be disappointed to lose the game on PS but, a point won in Guildford is not to be sniffed at, more importantly the performance was one to give the Phoenix boys a much needed confidence boost.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1445282607612_3104" style="background-color: white;">Sunday and the visit of the Wildcats would be another entertaining game. The Phoenix were without any players guesting from the Deeside Dragons and, this would be the first we got to see of Wildcats new import forward Carlo Finucci.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1445282607612_3105" style="background-color: white;"><b>First Period:</b> Phoenix came flying out the blocks after the puck drop and took the game to Swindon. A high pressing forecheck gave the Wildcats little comfort on the puck and Lyle was never given a chance to settle. Looking a little unsure of himself the Phoenix took their shots trying to force the games opening goal. That goal would come before the 5 min mark when Michael Satek took a short angle shot and banked the puck into the net off Stevie Lyle, timed at 4min 50sec. The pressure continued and the home side doubled their lead at 7min 05sec when Stan Gron tipped a Ben Wood shot for the games second goal. The Phoenix continued to pile on the pressure and Stevie Lyle called a time out to regroup the troops. As the period entered its second half the Wildcats began to regain some composure and force their own chances. It was on a break up the ice Luke Boothroyd took a needful slashing penalty to stop an opportunity. On the resulting powerplay the Wildcats would make that decision pay. Carlo Finucci got his first of the game at 11min 42sec to halve the deficit. Swindon began to tip the pressure in the their favour after the goal and that pressure would pay. At 18min 06sec Finucci scored once again to send the teams in at the break level at 2 each.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1445282607612_3119" style="background-color: white;"><b>Second Period:</b> The interval helped the Phoenix who looked like their old selves at the beginning of the second period. Taking the play to the Wildcats with pace, the Phoenix set up in the Cats zone early. After some neat work by Kovar and Satek, James Archer was found on the hash marks who blasted a shot past Lyle. So forceful that Lyle, and most of the players on the ice never saw it. The go ahead goal scored at 31min 35sec. The Phoenix continued to hold on to the play and dominate possession so, at the second interval, the home side lead 3-2.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1445282607612_3118" style="background-color: white;"><b>Third Period:</b> A Swindon fightback was expected and is what we got. Jan Kostal got the chances underway when an excellent shot beat Fone but not the pipework. Then Stan Gron was denied by a great save on a break away. The game really began to open up as the play switched from end to end. With Ben Wood off the ice on a questionable interference call the Cats went back on the powerplay. Much like their earlier effort they made the Phoenix pay. Tomasz Malasinski tied up the game once again with a superb snipe on the back post when he was found all alone, assists going to Harding and Ryhanen. At this point the period wore on and looked to be heading for OT but, Stan Gron would not agree and nab his second goal as the game entered it's last 5 minutes. After rounding the net he scored a beaut of a goal at 56min 45sec. The Phoenix needed to dig deep now and see out the game in face of some big Swindon pressure. Into the last couple of minutes Stevie Lyle went to the bench for the extra skater but the Wildcats could not set up properly in the Phoenix zone. After a turn over Aaltonen fed Stan Gron who raced up the left win and scored an easy empty netter, sealing his hattrick at 59min 43sec.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1445282607612_3113" style="background-color: white;"><b>Verdict:</b> After picking up a superb point the previous night this win underlined a fantastic weekend for the Phoenix and a real shot in the arm for form and confidence. For the most part they were able to deal with that excellent Wildcats top line and, a welcome return to form for Gron meant the Phoenix were good value for the win.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.guildfordflames.com/october_17th_v_manchester_phoenix___league_and_cup" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1445282607612_3101" original_target="http://totalswindonsport.com/2015/10/liddiard-speaks-to-total-sport-following-phoenix-defeat/" rel="nofollow" saprocessedanchor="true" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #338fe9; margin: 0px; outline: auto; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1445282607612_3100">http://www.guildfordflames.com/october_17th_v_manchester_phoenix___league_and_cup</span></a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2687/battling-phoenix-claim-point-guildford" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1445282607612_3099" rel="nofollow" saprocessedanchor="true" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1445282607612_3098">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2687/battling-phoenix-claim-point-guildford</span></a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2688/gron-dazzles-phoenix-beat-swindon" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1445282607612_3112" rel="nofollow" saprocessedanchor="true" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #338fe9; margin: 0px; outline: auto; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1445282607612_3111">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2688/gron-dazzles-phoenix-beat-swindon</span></a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.swindonwildcats.com/news/603/phoenix-edge-wildcats.html#.ViTE_9JVhHw" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1445282607612_3110" rel="nofollow" saprocessedanchor="true" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1445282607612_3109">http://www.swindonwildcats.com/news/603/phoenix-edge-wildcats.html#.ViTE_9JVhHw</span></a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://totalswindonsport.com/2015/10/liddiard-speaks-to-total-sport-following-phoenix-defeat/" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1445282607612_3108" rel="nofollow" saprocessedanchor="true" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1445282607612_3107">http://totalswindonsport.com/2015/10/liddiard-speaks-to-total-sport-following-phoenix-defeat/</span></a></span>coyotes_ukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11403942946817776226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610610789114073521.post-75222051003958093482015-10-15T20:57:00.000+01:002015-10-15T20:57:27.643+01:00Phoenix Rolling - Hull Pirates 11/10/15<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1444938719215_3751" original_target="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2685/phoenix-fall-hull-overtime" style="background-color: white;">After saturday nights loss to the Peterborough Phantoms the Phoenix would look to sunday nights visit of the Hull Pirates to get a win and avoid a pointless weekend. The Pirates, the EPL's basement side, came into Deeside with improving form and running more clubs close for results. In Baston the Pirates have unearthed a real gem in goal, the import goalie has, by all accounts, been standing on his head to give Hull chances to get results.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Once again the Phoenix would be without Mark Thomas who was still sidelined by injury.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1444938719215_3756" style="background-color: white;"><b>First Period:</b> The game opened with the Phoenix immediately taking possession of the puck and forcing the early chances, Baston having to be alert right from the off. The Phoenix controlled the game while the Pirates were happy to be defending their own zone and allowing the Phoenix chances from the perimeter. The Phoenix did manage to break the deadlock early in the period, at 6min 49sec, Deeside Dragons loanee Simon Furnival deflected a shot from James Neil which deceived Baston to put the Phoenix ahead. The pressure from the Phoenix was relentless and Baston had to come up big once again with chances falling to Gron and Archer as the home side looked to extend their lead.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1444938719215_3757" style="background-color: white;"><b>Second Period:</b> The Pirates made a strong start in the second period and equilised within the first minute of the period. After gaining the zone and some sloppy play from the Phoenix. The home side could not halt the run from the Pirates and, despite 3 or 4 opportunities to do so could not clear the puck. The initial shot was saved by Fone but, Tommi Laine was on hand to slot home the rebound at 20min 29sec to level the game. This was almost the only attacking the Pirates did in the period as the Phoenix laid seige to Baston's goal. Despite all the pressure and shots, including Robin Kovar striking the post the Phoenix could not find a way through and the period ended with the scores level.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1444938719215_3758" style="background-color: white;"><b>Third Period:</b> If you ignore the goal the third period was a carbon copy of the second, the Phoenix with all the chances and the visitors resigned to soaking up the pressure and hoping Baston stood tall. Most of the Phoenix pressure was only resulting in long shots and shots to the logo on Baston, shots he will save all day every day. The best opportunity for a winner came from Michal Satek on the breakaway who was denied, Fone had to be alert to to deny Sam Towner late in the period.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1444938719215_3759" style="background-color: white;"><b>Overtime:</b> The first appearance of overtime in Deeside this season. With Baston on the ice the Pirates had to ice three British forwards at a time where the Phoenix could cycle through their imports. The Pirates defended admirably in OT, Phoenix controlling the puck but the Pirates managing to keep all the play to the outside of the zone. Then, in almost a perfect irony, with their only attack of the OT period the Pirates forced a turnover in the Phoenix zone and Warren Tait took advantage to score the winner, the Pirates players celebrating wildly after getting their first win of the season.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1444938719215_3765" style="background-color: white;"><b>Verdict:</b> This may seem harsh on the Pirates but, this was a poor poor loss for the Phoenix. The amount of pressure they had was ridiculous at times, Hull did not do much as an attacking force for the entirety of the game but yet won it. It may seem very rose tinted of me but honestly it is true. The Pirates play at times was a little disjointed and passes were not great and they relay unbelievably heavily on Baston but, Baston, what a performance and what a player. Despite all I have just said, the Phoenix just could not answer Baston, he really kept Hull in the game and gave them a chance of getting the win. For the Phoenix, it will be immense disappointment that, despite all the pressure and shots, they could only score one goal.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2685/phoenix-fall-hull-overtime" rel="nofollow" saprocessedanchor="true" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2685/phoenix-fall-hull-overtime</span></a>coyotes_ukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11403942946817776226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610610789114073521.post-73847944450959295752015-10-14T21:15:00.004+01:002015-10-14T21:15:46.503+01:00Phoenix Rolling - Peterborough Phantoms 10/10/15<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1444853296639_5000" original_target="http://www.gophantoms.co.uk/phoenix-2-5-phantoms/" style="background-color: white;">Coming off a midweek loss to current EPL leaders the MK Lightning midweek the Phoenix looked to get back on track with a double home weekend against the Phantoms and the Hull Pirates. The Phantoms, lead by last years deserved EPL coach of the year Slava Koulikov, were one of the hardest working EPL sides last year, well drilled and hard to break down. Janis Ozins in goal one of the standout performers of the 2014/15 season....depending on his mood!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1444853296639_5005" style="background-color: white;">The game also saw the return of Stan Gron to the Phoenix roster, a welcome addition to the Phoenix lines and an opportune boost to the attacking options on the ice. Of course it mean saying good bye to Jan Platil who came to the Phoenix after being released by the Hull Pirates. Platil iced 5 games for the Phoenix picking up two assists along the way. While not an outstanding import D man, Platil was able to come in a do a job for the Phoenix at late notice. Did not look out of place on the blue line and brought a good amount of size to the Phoenix blue line. Thank you Jan and good look in your future career.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1444853296639_5006" style="background-color: white;"><b>First Period:</b> The game got underway and the Phantoms began to control the puck in the early stages. Once again this Peterborough team is a tough nut to crack, they work hard in their own zone and use a high forecheck which makes it difficult for the opposition to gain their zone. Despite this the first scoring chance fell to the Phoenix when James Archer rung the post early in the game. The visitors would, however, be the first to light the lamp when James Ferrara deflected a Milan Baranyk shot at 13min 34sec. A superb goal to be fair! That lead lasted 4 minutes as the home side levelled after sustained pressure on Ozins goal. Michal Satek continuing his fine goalscoring form scoring after a pass from Robin Kovar timed at 17min 44sec.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1444853296639_5007" style="background-color: white;"><b>Second Period:</b> The Phantoms upped the pressure in the second period and the Phoenix began to creak. Peterborough re-took the lead minutes in when Craig Scott emerged from behind Fone's net to score a back handed goal at 24min 29sec. Just over a minute later things went from bad to worse for the Phoenix when Ales Padalek extended the Phantoms lead at 25min 51sec. Phoenix were really struggling at this point, 1) to keep hold of the puck and 2) to remain structured in their defence. No surprise then when the Phantoms made it 4-1 when Will Weldon scored for the visitors. No surprise, at this point the Phoenix called a time out to re-group. The short break doing some good and the Phoenix reduced the defuicit when Satek scored once again when he picked up a rebound from a Kovar shot, that goal coming at 32min 09sec. The deficit was almost reduced again in the dying seconds of the powerplay as Satek raced clear on a breakaway only to be denied by Ozins.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><b>Third Period:</b> The Phantoms played a great third period in Deeside, up by two goals they switched to play a perfect road game. With the goals in hand they were able to soak up the Phoenix pressure allowing the home side's short bench to tire while hitting them on the break. The period was mainly filled with penalties, mainly to the Phantoms. This gave the Phoenix a few powerplay opportunities which, the home side could not capitalise on. As the game entered its final 5 minutes the Phantoms were able to secure the win with one final goal coming from Lloyd Gibson at 55min 08sec.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1444853296639_5008" style="background-color: white;"><b>Verdict:</b> A poor second period from the Phoenix effectively lost the game this time. A competitive first period and the first half of the third was not enough to beat, possibly, the best side to have come to Deeside so far this season. Koulikov was worked his magic once again this season and the Phantoms will be challenging at the top of the EPL. For the Phoenix, a tough loss to take, with the short bench and injuries really taking its toll its difficult to see the sunshine at the moment. One thing is certain though, this Phoenix team will never give up no matter the situation!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2684/phoenix-fall-short-peterborough" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1444853296639_5012" rel="nofollow" saprocessedanchor="true" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1444853296639_5013">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2684/phoenix-fall-short-peterborough</span></a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.gophantoms.co.uk/phoenix-2-5-phantoms/" rel="nofollow" saprocessedanchor="true" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.gophantoms.co.uk/phoenix-2-5-phantoms/</a></span>coyotes_ukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11403942946817776226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610610789114073521.post-4541238139420667552015-10-08T20:04:00.002+01:002015-10-08T20:04:39.888+01:00Phoenix Rolling - Basingstoke Bison 04/10/15<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1444330790768_4005" original_target="http://www.bstokebison.co.uk/individual_news/1695" style="background-color: white;">The season rolls into October and Christmas is fast approaching, yes I said it! The EPL season is relentless and the past weekend saw a tough one for the Phoenix. Saturday the Phoenix took on the Bracknell Bees, bolstered by the signing of Frankie Bakrlik the Bees have had a mixed start to the season, struggling for a sequence of events. Following that away trip the Phoenix would return to Deeside to face the current league leaders the Basingstoke Bison. The Bison have improved their roster quite a bit this year and, are another team to go down the import goaltender route capturing the former Edinburgh Capitals goalie Tomas Hiadlovsky.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1444330790768_4123" style="background-color: white;">Saturdays trip to Bracknell saw the Phoenix come away with a 4-2 victory but, that only tells one side of the story. By all accounts it was a very tough game for the Phoenix. The Bees have one full extra line when compared to the Phoenix plus, the end of the game saw some tasty bits of action with Spearing/Galazzi being ejected from the game for the home side and, Kovar being ejected for the Phoenix. Bees TV will be well worth the viewing this week!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1444330790768_4122" style="background-color: white;"><b>First Period:</b> The Phoenix welcomed the Bison to Deeside for the first time this season with both sides looking to complete a 4 point weekend. The Bison coming off a superb win against the Tigers and the Phoenix, after a tough win in Bracknell. It sounded like both teams had very tough saturday nights which would mean sunday's encounter would be a real battle. The period got underway with both teams battling hard, no one really dominating the game in the early stages. The visitors took the lead when Reynolds found Karpov breaking down the left wing with speed. His pace took him round the Phoenix defence and in on Fone, Karpov scoring a superb goal at 4min 28sec. Despite falling behind the Phoenix kept battling the Bison and saw some chances begin to fall their way, Hiadlovsky looking a little shaky in goal. The hosts got on the board when Joe Baird was called for interference. On the resulting powerplay Nico Aaltonen scored from a superb pass from Satek, the game tied at 7min 42sec. Bison re-took the lead just after the halfway point in the period when Shaun Thompson took advantage of a Phoenix giveaway to feed Joe Rand who gave the visitors the lead at 11min 32sec. Bison held the lead for a few minutes before the Phoenix levelled once again, after hard work from Ben Wood behind the goal he found James Archer in front to score at 15min 55sec. After that flurry of goals the period ended 2-2, both sides unable to assert their control and both looking exhausted from their saturday night efforts.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1444330790768_4127" style="background-color: white;"><b>Second Period:</b> The period opened up much like the first, Bison and Phoenix working hard but the play not quite living up to the usual Phoenix/Bison tussle's. The home side took the lead for the first time in the game when Ben Russell sent a pin point pass up centre ice to find Satek who raced in on Hiadlovsky to slot home and give the Phoenix the lead at 27min 48sec. As with the game so fare that lead was short lived and the Bison equalised through that man Karpov again. During a goal mouth scramble when all the Phoenix had to do was swing a stick and clear the puck, Karpov found some space and a free puck to jam it home and level the game at 29min 01sec. Phoenix managed to create some chances themselves after the Bison goal, the highlight of which was a superb effort from Kovar who's shot, beat Hiadlovsky but range the post and bounced across the goaline and out. Really unlucky but no goal! There would be one more goal in the period, one for the visitors. That man Karpov again, in an almost carbon copy of his first of the night, broke free from the Phoenix defence to go in on Fone alone. Scoring his breakway effort to give the Bison the lead, and his hattrick goal, at 38min 11sec, Mogg and Vantroba with the assists.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1444330790768_4128" style="background-color: white;"><b>Third Period:</b> The third period was a struggle for both teams, looking exhausted neither side were able to make any clear cut chances. The Phoenix had one powerplay opportunity during the period, with Vantroba sitting for interference but the Phoenix PP could not capitalise. The period wore on with the home side unable to level the game and, despite pulling Fone for the last 1min 37sec the equaliser could not be found and the Bison hung on for the win.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><b>Verdict:</b> Bit of a strange Phoenix/Bison game really, not played anywhere near the usual intensity or skill despite a few superb individual efforts. It really looked like saturday night had taken it out of both sides. The players looked tired but credit to both for working hard. Each goal was either a brilliant piece of individual skill or a fortunate bounce. Credit the Bison and Karpov for taking the chances given, I do feel the Phoenix deserved something from the game. Not necessarily the win but at least a point! Never mind, a game to chalk off and move on!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br /><b><u>Bracknell 2 Phoenix 4</u></b><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2679/phoenix-claim-battling-win-bracknell" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1444330790768_4141" rel="nofollow" saprocessedanchor="true" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #338fe9; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1444330790768_4140">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2679/phoenix-claim-battling-win-bracknell</span></a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.pitchero.com/clubs/bracknellbeesicehockeyclub/news/bracknell-bees-2--4-manchester-phoenix-1503740.html" rel="nofollow" saprocessedanchor="true" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.pitchero.com/clubs/bracknellbeesicehockeyclub/news/bracknell-bees-2--4-manchester-phoenix-1503740.html</a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><u><b>Phoenix 4 Bison 5</b></u><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2680/phoenix-edged-bison" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1444330790768_4136" rel="nofollow" saprocessedanchor="true" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1444330790768_4137">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2680/phoenix-edged-bison</span></a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.bstokebison.co.uk/Individual_News/1695" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1444330790768_4135" rel="nofollow" saprocessedanchor="true" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1444330790768_4134">http://www.bstokebison.co.uk/Individual_News/1695</span></a></span>coyotes_ukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11403942946817776226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610610789114073521.post-84465853932952033402015-09-28T19:02:00.000+01:002015-09-28T19:02:05.135+01:00Phoenix Rolling - Sheffield Steeldogs 27/09/15<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1443462787899_2760" original_target="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2677/phoenix-overpower-sheffield-deeside" style="background-color: white;">With the season now approaching the end of its first month of play the league table is beginning to take shape, even at this early stages there have been surprises, injuries and same old same old. The Manchester Phoenix, possibly, being one of the seasons surprise packages in that they are competing when many thought they wouldn't!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1443462787899_2742" style="background-color: white;">That being said the Phoenix injury curse has hit already this season, Stanislav Gron and Mark Thomas are both currently out with injury, heading into last weekends games Phoenix drafted in Jan Platil, who had recently been released by the Hull Pirates and, added Deeside Dragons Ross Kennedy and Paul Davies. Saturday saw the Phoenix take the drive down the M6 & M5 to the Link Centre to take on the Wildcats. It would turn out to be a pointless visit with the Wildcats running out 5-3 victors. Take a look at the weblinks at the foot of this post for a match report from the game.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1443462787899_2759" style="background-color: white;">Sunday night saw the first visit of the Steeldogs version Greg Wood to Deeside, usually the Phoenix would have played Sheffield in pre-season but not this year. Sheffield came to the game after an OT loss to Guildford which is no bad result, Greg and his players, joined by a large travelling contingent of fans arrived in Deeside for the seasons first War of the Roses.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1443462787899_2744" style="background-color: white;"><b>First Period:</b> The first period got off to a quick start and the Phoenix dominating the play. This version of the Steeldogs were not quite as rough and ready as Payette versions, physicality was there but by no means as much as years gone by. During the first period the Phoenix were able to stifle the Steeldogs so they were not able to mount many, if any, attacks on Fone's net. It was the home side who would score first when Robin Kovar found Michal Satek for the games first goal at 2min 09sec. The Phoenix pressure continued and the pressure was relentless so much so, by period end, the Phoenix had laid 22 shots upon Dailbor Sedlar's goal.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1443462787899_2758" style="background-color: white;"><b>Second Period:</b> Even though the Phoenix had overwhelmed the Steeldogs in the first period they still only had one goal to show for it. Phoenix fans still had the Guildford game fresh in their minds, that game, Flames had all the possession but still lost the game, could that happen to the Phoenix? Of course it could! After such a flat opener for the Steeldogs the second saw the beginning of their fight back. The Phoenix ran into some penalty trouble which offered the Steeldogs some of their own chances. Phoenix had Steve Fone to thank who was in fine form. The period wore on and Sheffield began to get their mojo going, Korhon and Bosas (whom I kept referring to as Bottas in my head for the whole game!) starting to turn the screw. The period ended though with no goals and the home side still ahead by the single goal.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1443462787899_2765" style="background-color: white;"><b>Third Period:</b> The game exploded into life during the third period, it had goals, chances, hissy fit's, minor handbags, pretty much everything we'd expect from a Steeldogs game. The Phoenix imports began to earn their pay when Robin Kovar and Michal Satek combined to double the Phoenix lead at 44min 55sec. That 2 goal lead was short lived when Ashley Calvert took the puck all the way down the ice to get the Steeldogs on the board just 29sec later scoring for the Dogs at 45min 24sec. Satek would turn provider for Robin Kovar at 45min 26sec which a true highlight reel goal to extend the Phoenix lead once more. This time though, the lead lasted even less than before, Sheffield reducing the deficit 22sec later when Korhon got the Dogs second at 46min 08sec. If Kovar's goal earlier was highlight reel, the Phoenix decisive 4 th was even better. Kovar and Satek combining once more for the latter to grab his hattrick goal. An awesome move up ice, neat inter passing with Satek crashing the net saw him score at 56min 35sec to kill off the Steeldogs challenge. The Steeldogs began to lose some composure and discipline which saw a succession head to the penalty box. Sedlar was pulled from the goal for the extra attacker with about 90sec to go, Robin Kovar got his second of the game, an empty net goal, at 59min 36sec. I will admit I did not see the incident but, at the same time, Korhon was ejected from the game for an abuse of the official call. Apparently he chucked his stick in the direction of an official? Am open to be filled in on that!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1443462787899_2768" style="background-color: white;"><b>Verdict:</b> After a loss in Swindon it was important the Phoenix get some points from the weekend. Games against Sheffield can't be taken lightly and the Phoenix opening 20min was a great show of control! In the end the Phoenix overall pressure and better discipline won the game. Sheffield will cause some upsets this season, it looks like player/coach Greg Wood has decided to go in a different direction that previously under Payetter!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/sport/13786488.BUZZER_REPORT__Swindon_Wildcats_5_Manchester_Phoenix_3" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1443462787899_2777" rel="nofollow" saprocessedanchor="true" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1443462787899_2776">http://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/sport/13786488.BUZZER_REPORT__Swindon_Wildcats_5_Manchester_Phoenix_3/</span></a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2676/phoenix-frustrated-swindon" rel="nofollow" saprocessedanchor="true" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2676/phoenix-frustrated-swindon</a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.swindonwildcats.com/news/580/cats-down-phoenix.html#.VgkU0tJVhHw" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1443462787899_2785" rel="nofollow" saprocessedanchor="true" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1443462787899_2784">http://www.swindonwildcats.com/news/580/cats-down-phoenix.html#.VgkU0tJVhHw</span></a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2677/phoenix-overpower-sheffield-deeside" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1443462787899_2770" rel="nofollow" saprocessedanchor="true" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1443462787899_2771">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2677/phoenix-overpower-sheffield-deeside</span></a></span>coyotes_ukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11403942946817776226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610610789114073521.post-2617771970680718632015-09-21T19:54:00.001+01:002015-09-21T19:54:35.935+01:00Phoenix Rolling - Guildford Flames 20/09/15<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442861526207_2476" original_target="http://www.guildfordflames.com/september_20th_v_manchester_phoenix___league_and_cup" style="background-color: white;">After the Phoenix perfect opening weekend the season would face a huge reality check the weekend just gone. The Phoenix came up against two clubs who would be challengers for the EPL title. Saturday saw the Phoenix take a trip down south to take on the Basingstoke Bison then head back to Deeside to take on the Guildford Flames. Two clubs with bigger rosters than the Phoenix and two tough games. The Phoenix have always struggled a little in Basinstoke but the return, on home ice, the Phoenix would look to beat the Flames in the first installment of the #PyroDerby.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442861526207_2479" style="background-color: white;">The weekends preparations were not helped when news emerged that MecaGron would be sidelined through injury for the foreseeable future. This is where the knife edge nature of the Phoenix roster would fall down. The team are already a short benched team, take out one of your main scoring threats that puts the team really behind the 8 ball! But, thems the cards your dealt. I wont go into the game in detail for two reasons, 1) I wasn't there and 2) head over to Banners on the Wall and Anthony will give you an in depth rundown of the game. Suffice to say the short bench, plus another injury sustained during the game meant the Phoenix chronically short bench could not cope. The Phoenix left Basingstoke with a 6-2 loss.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">Back in Deeside on the sunday news emerged of Ben Wood's injury, having taken a hard hit in Basingstoke the night before, Ben was left with a sore shoulder which would keep him out the game. Two players down, 4 if you include the two Deeside youngsters signed on 2-way deals who, were also out through injury. Coupled with the Flames strength in depth I will admit I was not feeling hopeful about the game. Big big thanks must go out to two Dragons (Deeside) senior players who answered the call and suited up to help the Phoenix out. So, James Parsons and Simon Furnival to volunteer and come to play an EPL game with no training with the Phoenix at all, massive thanks to you and the Deeside Dragons! </span><span style="background-color: white;"></span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442861526207_2484" style="background-color: white;"><b>First Period:</b> The game began without much structure to it, much of the play was very scrappy with neither side able to take control of the game. Guildford were able to pin most of the play in the Phoenix zone but, thanks to hard working defence and Fone in ninja mode, the Flames rarely came close to a clear cut chance in the opening stages. The Flames pressure did begin to build and a breakthrough was made on the powerplay. With Trent Hope in the penalty box on a tripping call, Flames went on the PP at 7min 16sec. After setting up in the zone the Flames began to move the puck around and, after just 33sec made the breakthrough. Steve Fone made the initial save on the play, then a 2nd and 3rd save but the Flames perseverance delivered a goal on the 4th attempt. After Fone made the 3rd stop, his rebound fell to Piatak unmarked on the back post to score. As the period wound down the next incident of note was a rather amusing penalty taken by Andy McKinney. Mark Thomas made a fantastic, heavy, hit behind Fone's goal which Andy took exception too. After the play was blown dead, McKinney and Thomas skated away having words before McKinney dropped his gloves. Thomas just giggled, turned away, and skated back to the bench. McKinney, dropping the gloves a little early and earning himself a 2+10 for incitement. Flames went into the break just a goal to the good despite outshooting the Phoenix 2-to-1!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442861526207_2485" style="background-color: white;"><b>Second Period:</b> Throughout the first period and into the second, it became obvious the Phoenix were playing to a particular plan. Accepting the shorter bench, the Phoenix were allowing the Flames puck possession, then working very hard to clear the ice in front of Fone. As the Phoenix continued to soak up the pressure the Flames began to get more and more frustrated. Small errors began creeping into the game and the Phoenix started to get a few breakaway chances. Mark Thomas turned quarterback in a remarkable 5 minute period at the mid point of the game, which saw the Phoenix take the lead. His first assist saw James Archer released who danced through the Flames defence to score past Wall at 29min 49sec. The second, Robin Kovar had sat in the penalty box for a 2min tripping call, upon his release, Thomas floated a beautiful pass inbetween the Flames D men for Kovar to latch onto and skate in on Wall alone. Robin making no mistake with his finish putting the Phoenix into the lead at 34min 17sec.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;"><b>Third Period:</b> The Phoenix did grow into the game more in the third period but, Flames did still control the number of chances created but, they still could not put the puck in the net. The Phoenix were now very comfortable in soaking up the pressure and looking to counter on the break. The only goal of the game came to the Phoenix in, and i'll have to quote Ben Knight on this, possibly the most bizare goal he has ever seen. I will admit I did not see the goal as I was noting down a shot. All I heard was the crowd erupt from across the ice. A goal you will need to watch Phoenix TV for I think! Gareth O'Flaherty scoring the Phoenix third goal at 42min 40sec. The Phoenix D contunued to hold and frustrate the Flames who could not make headway back into the game at all. Into the last two minutes the Flames pulled Wall for the extra attacker but could not make the breakthrough. Phoenix holding on for a memorable win!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442861526207_2495" style="background-color: white;"><b>Verdict:</b> I will admit, going into sundays game, I did not have the Phoenix down for a win. I thought we could compete for periods 1 & 2 but the third we would tire and let slip the game. How wrong could I have been. This was such a statement type of win, almost as if the team just accepted the numerical disadvantage but in no way would that stop them. There was so much guts and determination during those 60mins I think it surprised the Flames as well as myself. Guildford may have expected an easier game due to their extra numbers but, quickly became frustrated and their discipline and sharpness cost them. Huge win for the Phoenix and many many many big smiles around the rink after the final buzzer!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2672/phoenix-defeated-basingstoke" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442861526207_2486" rel="nofollow" saprocessedanchor="true" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442861526207_2487">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2672/phoenix-defeated-basingstoke</span></a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.basingstokegazette.co.uk/sport/13771803.REPORT___Basingstoke_Bison_6_2_Manchester_Phoenix" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442861526207_2494" rel="nofollow" saprocessedanchor="true" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442861526207_2493">http://www.basingstokegazette.co.uk/sport/13771803.REPORT___Basingstoke_Bison_6_2_Manchester_Phoenix/</span></a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2673/phoenix-battle-flames-take-win#close" rel="nofollow" saprocessedanchor="true" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2673/phoenix-battle-flames-take-win#close</a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.guildfordflames.com/september_20th_v_manchester_phoenix___league_and_cup" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442861526207_2490" rel="nofollow" saprocessedanchor="true" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442861526207_2489">http://www.guildfordflames.com/september_20th_v_manchester_phoenix___league_and_cup</span></a></span>coyotes_ukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11403942946817776226noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610610789114073521.post-91525723074126558842015-09-16T20:23:00.001+01:002015-09-16T20:23:15.236+01:00Phoenix Rolling - MK Lightning 13/09/15<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442431248528_2168" original_target="http://mk-lightning.co.uk/report-phoenix-4-2-lightning-13-september/" style="background-color: white;">The weekend just gone saw fans across the EPL dust down those jerseys, fill up the car and hit the road for another exciting EPL season. For the Phoenix it well and truly marks the end of one of the most turbulent summers the club has ever experienced. After a two week pre-season, now firmly settled into their new surroundings in Deeside, the Phoenix open up their EPL season with an inaugural trip to play the Hull Pirates, before returning along the M62 and M56 to take on the Lightning at home.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442431248528_2196" style="background-color: white;">The Lightning have built up a strong roster this year, starting with Dean Skinns between the pipes, a player who backstoped the Bison to a number of cup wins. The MK defence is built with some big guys and the ever present Leigh Jamieson, a vetran of the EPL at just 30 years of age. Up front MK are spoilt with riches, a good Brit core including two from the Phoenix in Bobby Chamberlain and Jack Watkins, Blaz Emersic a long time EPL player an an import I would love to see in Phoenix colours. The standout signing has to be, Rene Jarolin though, their import forward captured from the Edinburgh Capitals. Scoring 56 points at over a point per game in the EIHL, he will light up the EPL!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442431248528_2197" style="background-color: white;">Going into sunday nights game against MK, Phoenix made the trip across the north of England to Hull. PLaying in the Pirates first EPL game in 'The World's most Versatile Arena' and giving Phoenix fans a chance to sample the famous chip spice! From the updates it sounded like the Phoenix were largely on top in the game but were not able to convert many of their chances. Just one goal a period until the game opened up in the fourth, Phoenix running out 4-1 victors.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442431248528_2198" style="background-color: white;"><b>First Period:</b> Throughout our time in the EPL, Phoenix/MK games have always been a highlight for me. Both are teams that are set up to play hockey, both teams have fast and skilful players and are coached to win. The first period began with neither side really dominating the play. Chances were created at either end with the players transitioning through centre ice with speed. A real end to end period had to wait until the later stages to see its first goal. Blaz Emersic took the first penalty of the game at 14min 36sec when he took a two minute penalty for hooking. The Phoenix PP unit went to action and, with the mad advantage, would score the games first goal. The three imports on the ice combining to set up MecaGron for the first goal, timed at 15min 33sec with assists to Kovar and Aaltonen. The period carried on but no further goals were scored. Jack Watkins having the best chance of the first for the visitors but, sadly, fanning on a shot allowing Fone to clear up.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442431248528_2199" style="background-color: white;"><b>Second Period:</b> The second did not suffer from either team taking a breather, the play carried on from the first period with both teams going full tilt from the puck drop. Through the early stages both goaltenders were in action but were equal to the shots. As the period wore on the more clear cut chances were made when either team was on a power play. The Lightning then ran in to some penalty trouble when Markku Tahtinen went to the box at 32min 36sec for hooking. Then Leigh Jamieson followed him to the box at 34min 12sec for 2mins for slashing plus 2mins for abuse of an official. Despite having a 5 on 3 for a few moments, the Phoenix could not capitalise on the resulting powerplay. A second goal for the hosts did arrive before the buzzer though, 38min 16sec James Archer setting up MecaGron for his second goal of the game. Phoenix heading into the final period break, good value for their 2-0 goal lead.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442431248528_2200" style="background-color: white;"><b>Third Period:</b> Phoenix turned the screw a little early in the third period when they jumped out to a 4-0 lead. Robin Kovar scored the Phoenix 3rd at 41min 12sec when he capitalised on an awkward bounce from the netting to decieve Dean Skinns. I know a number of the MK fans were protesting that it was kicked in but the referee saw no foul and awarded the goal. Assists going to James Archer and Gareth O'Flaherty. The Phoenix extended their lead around two minutes later when scorer turned provider as Kovar assisted James Archer to the Phoenix 4th goal, timed at 43min 33sec. It was then the Phoenix turn to run into penalty trouble, the Phoenix PK unit enduring an extended period on the ice as Ben Russell, Luke Boothroyd and MecaGron all spent time in the penalty box. Perhaps those penalties started to take their toll, plus MK's expected increase in effort as the period wore on but the visitors did manage to break Fone's resistance. Jack Watkins and Joshua Cook combined to set up captain Adam Carr to get the visitors on the board at 49min 32sec. 10 minutes to go and 3 goals to get MK really started to ratchet up the pressure. As the Phoenix became more defensive and Skinns saw less shots the Phoenix continued to hit penalty trouble. It was only a matter of time before MK would score again. As MK began to see a few more breakaway chances the Phoenix D became more desperate. Luke Boothroyd would take one for the team when he skated to the box, at 51min 28sec to sit for 2 minutes on an interference penalty. On the resulting powerplay Mk turned the screw and scored their second to reduce the deficit. That player you love to hate, Leigh Jamieson scoring for the Lightning at 52min 23sec with assists going to Tahtinen and Luomala. Still more than enough time to score two goals the Phoenix had to dig deep to see the game out. Despite Kovar, Boothroyd and Thomas heading to the penalty box, the Phoenix were able to hold firm and see out the win. The final buzzer going and a 4-2 win for the Phoenix.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442431248528_2209" style="background-color: white;"><b>Verdict:</b> A tough win against a very good MK side, MK will do alot better than last years 7th position this year. They have great depth and some excellent imports. For me, and I appreciate we are only two games into the season, the weakness for me is in Dean Skinns. I saw it during his time with the Bison too, if you ruffle him early or dont allow him to settle his game goes a little haywire at times. This is where teams can capitalise. All that being said, I take nothing away from the Phoenix, they played a solid, hard game and deserved the win. The early goals in the third period were hugely vital. A case of taking the chances when they counted. The win certainly caps a great opening weekend!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2671/phoenix-claim-win-home-opener" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442431248528_2208" rel="nofollow" saprocessedanchor="true" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442431248528_2207">http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2671/phoenix-claim-win-home-opener</span></a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><a href="http://mk-lightning.co.uk/report-phoenix-4-2-lightning-13-september/" rel="nofollow" saprocessedanchor="true" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">http://mk-lightning.co.uk/report-phoenix-4-2-lightning-13-september/</a></span>coyotes_ukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11403942946817776226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610610789114073521.post-10622675008401821912015-09-13T11:15:00.005+01:002015-09-13T11:15:42.611+01:00Pre-Season Hype<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442139073428_6532" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">The road to the 15/16 season has been an interesting ones for Phoenix fans and for fans of hockey in Manchester it has to be said. Much has been said on various forum's/blog's and twitter, I said my piece in my previous post so, from now on its hockey only on the blog! Famous last words I know!</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442139073428_6531" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">This post is going to round up the last few players who were added to the roster and the two 'home' preseason games against the Swindon Wildcats and the Telford Tigers. So, onto the remaining players to join the Phoenix roster:</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442139073428_6537" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Back up Netminder - <b>Phil Spanswick</b>. Last season Phoenix had one of the strongest netminding tandems in the league with Fone and Declan Ryan. During the summer Ryan announced via twitter that he was taking time away from hockey to pursue a phd. Fair enough, at EPL level hockey is not a full time profession for Brit's so you have to get set for your future away from the sport. So, with the back up netminder spot free the Phoenix announced Phil Spanswick who would fill the role for this coming season. I will concede I do not know much about Phil and his Elite Hockey Prospects page is quite sparse. Anyone out there know much/anything about him?</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442139073428_6538" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Forward - <b>Trent Hope</b>. Hope is a name familiar to hockey fans across the UK. Shannon Hope was a defenceman for the Cardiff Devils playing nearly 400 games for the Cardiff side. No surprise then that his son, Trent, has played his career to date in south Wales. So far he has performed nicely in the ENL and ENL 2 and this season will be his first in the top level of English Ice Hockey the EPL. Another player I know little about but am looking forward to seeing out on the ice!</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442139073428_6539" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Forward - <b>Stanislav Gron</b>. Or MecaGron is how i'll be referring to him this coming season is a big Slovak forward drafted by the New Jersey Devils in 1997. Playing the majority of his career in his home country he also had signifcant stints in Italy, the WHL and the AHL putting up nearly a point every other game. His past couple of seasons in Italy have seen him scoring at over 1.5 points per game.He looks to have the size, he has the experience hopefully MecaGron will fill the points gap left by Tony Hand's retirement.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442139073428_6540" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Forward - <b>Nico Aaltonen</b>. Phoenix dont usually sign finnish players so Nico joins quite a small list! Nico will be another top lforward who the club will hope replaces some of the points lost through player departures. Like MecaGron, Nico has spent most of his career in his homeland and, played one game shy of 200 in the Liiga in Finland.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442139073428_6541" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Forward - <b>Michal Satek</b>. Another new arrival at the Phoenix, he joins Aaltonen and MecaGron making their debut seasons with the Phoenix in England in the EPL. Having spent just one season outside Slovakia Satek comes to England for a new challenge. His career in Slovakia has seen him score roughly a point every 2 or 3 games and, coming off the back of a good year in Romania. Satek looks exciting on paper, hopefully that will translate onto the ice.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442139073428_6542" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Along with the main roster the Phoenix have also signed two Deeside youngsters on two way contracts for the coming season, makes sense given the year long residency the Phoenix have in north Wales.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442139073428_6543" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Youngsters playing on a two way with the Deeside Dragons, Ross Kennedy on Defence and Ryan Jones on forward. Give the Phoenix tendancy to ice with a shorter roster and, our luck (or lack thereof) with injuries, I think the two youngsters will see a fair amount of ice time!</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442139073428_6544" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">So thats the roster, how about some games? Continuing the strange summer we've had as Phoenix fans, it was August and we were on the M56 heading for North Wales! Hockey can be a strange and unusual sport sometimes but, its why we all love it! It was good fun driving across to Deeside, this coming season will feel like an adventure each weekend! For those of you who will come to Deeside as an away fan I would recommend arriving a little earlier or, build in a trip to Chester Zoo or Cheshire Oaks at the same time. Both are only about 20 minutes away from the Ice Rink!</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b><u>Cats enter the Dragons Lair:</u></b> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"></span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Swindon Wildcats were the first visitors to the Phoenix new home and the first with Stevie Lyle as player coach. The Cat's have retianed the majority of their 14/15 roster, the significant changes coming in their imports. Hoog and Kana were not retained, placed by Miroslav Zalasak and Sami Ryhanen. The game really was fun to watch, Swindon and Phoenix have similarities in the way they play. Swindon, for me, looked very solid if a little un-inspiring at times. Throughout the game the main players just didnt seem to catch fire. Im really looking at Nell and Kostal. They seemed to huff and puff but not really get anywhere. The Phoenix, while looking a bit more kamikaze in defence had pace to burn and would often get in behind the Wildcats defence. In the end the Phoenix were able to capitalise on that pace while doing just enough in defence to keep the Wildcats at bay. Plus, Steve Fone was in outstanding form!</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b><u>Reality check from the Champions:</u></b></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1442139073428_6550" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">After the weekends optimism playing the Wildcats and, a 4-3 win in Telford the night before sunday was set up to be a cracker. The Tigers come into the 15/16 which a largely unchanged roster. Well, they are champions so, why change something that isn't broken? The only new blood coming from two new players, Joe Graham and Phil Hill. When the game got going the Phoenix looked good in the early stages and took the lead. But, the quality on the Tigers roster began to come through. The Tigers took quick hold of the game and ran away with it. Really no issues with the scoreline for me, the Phoenix looked tired and, coupled with the Tigers depth, just couldn't match up. Best team in the league last year and, on that showing, they will be the ones to beat again!</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span>coyotes_ukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11403942946817776226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610610789114073521.post-14079653771338925592015-07-16T20:51:00.003+01:002015-07-16T20:51:46.249+01:00The Phoenix Summer Rollercoaster - Glass Half Full<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1437076179950_3647" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Ok, so yesterdays post was a glass half empty kind of deal. Let's get the sunnies out, enjoy the sunshine and fill that glass up. There be silver linings to those clouds!</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1437076179950_3646" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">You will have seen on social media, in the days after the Stingrays went under a fan launched a kickstarter campaign to bring back hockey in Hull. Those efforts have seemingly been rewarded and, an ownership group lead by Shane Smith (of the Steeldogs) has stepped in to run an EPL team in Hull. Welcome the Hull Pirates! Out of this messy summer it looks like the EIHL and EPL will run with 10 teams each this coming season. This is great news for the guys in Hull, many fans I have got to know over the years they will make an EPL team a success I know it! As of writing the Pirates had announced their first signing in Sam Towner, GB under 20 international, Hull native and a player who had signed with the Stingrays for the coming season joins player coach Dominic Osman on the Pirates roster.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1437076179950_3652" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Another brief titbit, Red Hockey continued their investment in British Ice Hockey by purchasing a 100% stake in the Deeside Dragons. The team who will share their ice with the Phoenix for the 15/16 season. Red Hockey's aims with the Dragons is to strengthen them and, possibly, work them up to becoming an EPL team.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1437076179950_3653" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Finishing off this post, in a positive way, its time to talk about the Phoenix 15/16 squad which, despite the off-ice issues is being built a pace. It must be said that, every play who has signed and, talking to a player earlier in the summer. The prospect of playing a season in Deeside has not been an issue in signing on the dotted line at all.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1437076179950_3654" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Anyway, onto the roster (correct as of 9th July)</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><u>Goaltenders</u></span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1437076179950_3655" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b>#31 Stephen Fone</b> - A stalwart of the Phoenix now, a player icing his 7th season for the Phoenix between the pipes, Fone is established as one of the best goalies in the EPL. Despite his GAA increasing during last season, he actually had his best save % since going full time with the Phoenix. That leaky defence obviously letting through more shots! Having Declan Ryan as competition will have helped push Fone on during the season. I hope for 15/16 he can carry on his form and backstop the Phoenix to further success.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><u><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Defence</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span></u><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b>#4 Luke Boothroyd</b> - Captain Fantastic, #Bootherscoringmachine, just a few ways Phoenix fans like to describe their captain. Luke is returning for his 8th season in Phoenix colours, being named Captain for 6 of those seasons. Luke is one of the few EPL British players who could probably hold their own in the EIHL. A cool head, immensely strong despite his size, you notice his influence on the ice and off it. A freak off ice injury ended his 14/15 season early and you could see the Phoenix struggle on the ice without him. 14/15 will be a season he wants to forget, 15/16 should see the return of the captain we know and love.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b>#5 Benjamin Russell</b> - Ben comes to the Phoenix from three seasons with the MK Lightning and some junior hockey in North America. He seems to be excited to play in Manchester and, Tony Hand obviously sees promise in him so, I will be excited to see what he can bring to the Phoenix blue line.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b>#12 James Neil</b> - James Neil has been around forever it seems so, it is amazing to know he is still only 25! 15/16 will be his 7th season in Phoenix colours, a player who is loved by the Phoenix fans and a guy who always has time to talk to anyone about anything. Despite his small stature Neil is a damn hard worker on the ice and a very competent defenceman. He's one of those players you always expect to be there but, always miss when he is not. Another player on last seasons Phoenix roster who lost games to injury, hopefully 15/16 will be better on that front!</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b>#15 Ben Wood</b> - 'Gino' has been playing hockey in the North West since 2002, now a 'veteran' of 27 and one of the Phoenix longest serving players, Ben returns to the Phoenix to ice his 8th season. Speaking to the guy off the ice, signing on for another year was a no-brainer for be. Ben has worked his way up through the junior levels to establish himself as an ever reliable defenceman for the Phoenix. Possessing height, an awesome ability to hit the body and a wicked wrist shot Ben has been slowly proving his worth to the Phoenix. More of the same please Ben!</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b>#44 Mark Thomas</b> - Mark is a stellar signing for the Phoenix the Stockport native returns to his roots in signing for the Phoenix for the new season. Starting his career with the Altrincham Tigers, rising up to ice for the Phoenix in the EIHL, Thomas has played much of his recent career over t'hills with the Sheffield Steelers. During his time winning the EIHL title and playoff trophies amongst others, Thomas brings a wealth of experience, skill and leadership to the Phoenix blue line. Thomas will be in the top line D pairing, possibly with an import D or, with Boothroyd would be my guess! Looking forward to seeing him in Phoenix colours.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><u><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Forwards</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span></u><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b>#2 James Archer</b> - Currently filling his summer playing for Team GB in the inline hockey championships Arch returns to the Phoenix for his 6th season. Arch has usually filled the 2nd line winger spot and been very productive in that position. He works hard, is skillfull and has a good shot. When Michal Psurny's season was finished Arch did see some time on the top line with Tony Hand. Yet another player who lost games to injury im sure Archer will want to put 14/15 behind him and have a good new season.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b>#62 Jacob Corson-Heron</b> - He has only played a season and a half for the Phoenix, much of his 14/15 season was lost to injury but, in the games he did play. The Phoenix faithful saw his qualities and worth to the team. Despite his small stature, Croson-Heron has speed to burn and a complete disregard for his own safety! He is a player I didn't expect to see back this season so, am really happy he is coming back!</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1437076179950_6144" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b>#66 Robin Kovar</b> - After hearing rumours about Kovar towards the end of his first season in Manchester, it will always surprise me when he signs on for another season in Manchester. Robin is hugely talented, ridiculously strong and all you want in an import forward. Possibly a little selfish at times but, you could argue, the best forwards often are! Over two full seasons with the Phoenix Robin has put up consistent numbers and with, perhaps, more of a staring role on the Ice (due to Tony's retirement) I expect Robin to have an excellent 15/16 season. Who needs Batman, we've got Robin........indeed!</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1437076179950_6139" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">#TBC - Gareth O'Flaherty - A guy Phoenix fans are familiar with, despite the 15/16 season being his first offical season for the Phoenix. Gareth spent the 14/15 season on a three way deal with the Blaze EIHL and ENL teams and the Manchester Phoenix. He iced twice for the Phoenix and, I remember being impressed with him. He brings some new blood into the Phoenix locker room, im looking forward to how he plays this coming season.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1437076179950_6138" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">So that's the Phoenix summer so far, I hope it has been an interesting read. I know you will disagree with some or all of it, that's ok. Like I said, its just how I feel, I make no apologies for that! I hope to do a few more posts throughout the summer as the Phoenix roster becomes clearer and, hopefully, we get more clarity on the future of the Phoenix. All that's left to say is, enjoy the summer, enjoy your holidays, before you know it, it will be september already!</span>coyotes_ukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11403942946817776226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7610610789114073521.post-6787925440054823892015-07-15T21:29:00.000+01:002015-07-15T21:29:16.056+01:00The Phoenix Summer Rollercoaster - Glass Half Empty<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1436991911249_5329" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Well, hello again everyone! I do apologise for the lack of updates on the blog so far. Its really been a combination of things since the end of the 14/15 EPL season. Mainly holidays, home life priorities, work and I just wanted a bit of time off after the season to un-plug and reset if that makes sense.</span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Segoe UI, Helvetica, Arial, Lucida Grande, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> This is a long post which im splitting in two to make it a little more palatable!</span></span></span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1436991911249_5199" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">So, since the end of the 14/15 season.....have I missed much? Anything?</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1436991911249_5205" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">I guess a few things have happened in the world of the Phoenix, in fact things started happening the saturday night of finals weekend! It's kind of been non stop since then. I think I put it out on twitter that I claimed film rights for the Phoenix summer story, it really has been worthy of a block buster. Controversy, back stabbing, claims and counter claims, homeless ness and finally a home from home. I will never claim to know the full details, how could I? But, i wanted, in this post at least, just to talk about what it's been like for this particular Phoenix fan since the final buzzer sounded in Coventry.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1436991911249_5206" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">I will preface what im about to say with, I am a Manchester Phoenix fan and, in my experience, do have trust in Neil Morris/Wayne Scholes and the Phoenix back room team. This is based on my experiences/dealings with the Phoenix as a fan since their birth in the Manchester Arena. I have heard stories about Neil Morris being a bit ruthless and not the easiest person to work with. Hey, how many successful business men are sweetness and light? Anyway, that's my disclaimer out the way, you can take what I say with a pinch of salt if you like....that's totally up to you!</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">This is the summer so far.....................Angry Budgie style.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1436991911249_5207" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">The summer of 2015 for the Phoenix really began during finals weekend in Coventry last April. Going into the weekend the Phoenix had played all season with a short roster due to injury, Heading into that last weekend, in addition to injuries the Phoenix had also lost import forward Michal Psurny. A short bench, down an import, claiming the Playoff trophy would be one tough ask. Despite the odds being stacked against the Phoenix they won through their semi-final to take on the Phantoms in the EPL Playoff final. In a summer of bombshell's the first was dropped on the Phoenix not long after the final whistle went saturday night. A statement put on the Hockey Forum by someone connected to SilverBlades in Altrincham, words to the effect, that the Phoenix were being booted out of the Ice Dome. Whether you believe either side of the story, making the statement on a forum? That's bad form!</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1436991911249_5208" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">So heading into the final, the Phoenix were tired, injured, short benched and now homeless, brilliant preparation. Despite all that the team performed as best they could, the Phoenix fans in full voice behind the team. In the end the Phantoms were just better! Koulikov, with a bit of a budget behind him, is an excellent coach and had turned the Phantoms into damn fine team. Hard working all over the ice and, in Auzins, have a fantastic base to build on to win games. I doff my cap to the Phantoms...well done!</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Im not going to bore you will all the details in the saga between the Phoenix/Red Hockey and SilverBlades, there are plenty of podcasts and statements out there concerning it. As a fan of the Phoenix its just frustrating, I know both sides are trying to win the PR war, that's only natural. Being a Phoenix fan of course I will have a bias to their side of the story. My argument would be, at least the Phoenix have stuck with making statements via their official website, and keeping them short and to the point. I do not like how SB have gone about arguing their side from behind a username on the Hockey Forum. That's not how you do business.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1436991911249_5223" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Anyhoo, for the 15/16 season Phoenix will be playing out of Deeside while a new arena is built in the city centre, more than likely out by the Etihad stadium. There was, as you will have seen a few weeks ago, a big announcement due by the Phoenix, which was then delayed a day, then put out very late at night. The announcement confirming 15/16 in Deeside, 16/17 in an Arena in Manchester. Free buses being put on to transport fans out to Deeside. As I mentioned in my 'disclaimer' paragraph above, I do trust the Phoenix, in my interactions as a win with the club they have given me no reason not to. I must admit, that announcement left me a little flat. I had been lead to believe we had an 80% chance of starting the new season in Manchester. I kind of expected the move to Deeside but was still disappointed to have that confirmed. The aspect that disappointed me the most though, was the lack of clarity on the new rink in the announcement. What would have softened the Deeside blow, would have been, yes ok were playing in Deeside but look, here are our plans of the new rink and construction will begin ..........etc..</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Anyway, Deeside it is, I have renewed my season ticket and, at least for me, Deeside is not a strenuous journey to make. Plus, the rink does look good actually!</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1436991911249_5282" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">The second bombshell of the summer happened about two weeks ago. It was confirmed one early morning that, due to a major sponsor pulling out and, the Hull council deciding to charge for ice time. The Hull Stingrays owned had liquidated the team, the Hull Stingrays were gone. While you could argue the writing was on the wall for a long time for Hull, it does not make up for losing your team. Blimey, I've been through that enough following Ice Hockey in Manchester!</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1436991911249_5283" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">You may have already guess but, I don't hold I high opinion of SilverBlades...shock horror I know! The third bombshell of the summer followed just hours after the demise of the Stingrays. SilverBlades would be resurrecting the Manchester Storm to play out of the Ice Dome in the EIHL. An announcement that would piss off a huge group of hockey supporters in Manchester and, rub the Stingrays fans in the dirt. It was poorly timed by both SB and the EIHL. Given the first few signings of the Storm have been former Stingrays players, it seems more and more the EIHL have lifted the Stingrays franchise out of Hull and plonked it in Altrincham. Given my personal anger with SB over the way they have seemingly kicked the Phoenix out of the Ice Dome to have their own team I will wish them well. Manchester and the North West is/should be big enough to sustain two hockey teams. I have seen alot of infighting within the Phoenix fanbase and, old Storm supporters now appearing since the announcement. For me, it's not worth it, you cannot dictate to people how to spend their sporting ££'s. For me, I supported the Storm, I lost money when the Storm went bust, I am a Phoenix fan and, in the long run, the Phoenix will be so much better placed when the arena in the city opens up. Good luck to the Storm but, even though Altrincham is closer to where I live than Manchester and Deeside, I will not be attending your games.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1436991911249_5284" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">My other main frustration of the summer has been, the emergence of old Manchester Storm fans now appearing and declaring their love for the Storm. When the Storm arrived on the scene they were a big deal, playing out of the Nynex/MEN Arena the Storm would regularly attract crowds of 8-10k in the early days, I was one of them! However, as success died away and, the free tickets were not as freely given out, crowds fell and the club began to lose money. So, it was no surprise that, playing in front of 2-3k crowds in an Arena of 17k the Storm went bust. The question has been asked many many times, where did all those 17k plus fans go who watched the Storm tank Sheffield all those years ago? Many of those Storm fans at the end are the very same that went on to form FOMIH (Friends of Manchester Ice Hockey) who then set up the Phoenix. A big frustration for me is, SilverBlades cashing in on the history of the Storm when, the Storm (original) legacy is the Phoenix (current) history. The Phoenix came from the Storm, the new Storm (v2) have no link to that legacy despite their attempts to claim it. My second big frustration with all the 'rebirth' of the Storm is, on social media so many hockey fans coming out to declare their love for the Storm name and it rekindling their interest in Hockey in Manchester. My points would be:</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"></span><br />
<ul id="yui_3_16_0_1_1436991911249_5287" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px 40px;">
<li><span style="font-family: sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Where were you in those last days of the Storm?</span></li>
<li id="yui_3_16_0_1_1436991911249_5296"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1436991911249_5297" style="font-family: sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Suddenly declaring your interest in Hockey in Manchester, there has been hockey in Manchester for the past 12 years, the Manchester Phoenix.</span></li>
<li id="yui_3_16_0_1_1436991911249_5286"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1436991911249_5285" style="font-family: sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Many of these fans never took to the Phoenix because of playing in Altrincham, why does having the Storm back now make hockey in Altrincham all ok?</span></li>
<li id="yui_3_16_0_1_1436991911249_5288"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1436991911249_5295" style="font-family: sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Bear in mind, this is the same rink other fans have slated the Phoenix for playing in the past few years. It will have the same poor sightliness and malfunctioning toilets!</span></li>
</ul>
<br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1436991911249_5289" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Reading all the above, you may call me bitter/deluded what ever you like. The point of this post was just to talk about how I (as a Phoenix fan) have been feeling this summer. Its not a perfect description of everything, it will be biased but, I just want to try and set out what I am feeling and why. Like I have said before, good luck to the Storm and, if you want to support them, please do!</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">So, that's the glass half empty side of the post, come back for the glass half full post!</span>coyotes_ukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11403942946817776226noreply@blogger.com0