The Angry Budgie

Phoenix v Sheffield Steeldogs 26th January Game Review

2012-01-31T19:16:00.002Z

After the #phoenixtrain's momentary stop after the loss in Guildford, thursday night saw a chance to get the train rolling again. The visitors, the Sheffield Steeldogs. A team the Phoenix need no introduction too! Sheffield are a team who like to play physical hockey and, on many occasion, dirty hockey. If there is one team that sums up the darker side of the game its Sheffield. Led by the EPL's chief aggitator/good (depending on your viewpoint_ Andre Payette they are a tough nut to crack. Thursday nights game saw the Steeldogs give debut's to new import, and Ozonlins fellow Latvian countryman Raivis Kurnigins. The Steeldogs also welcomed Sheffield academy player Shaun Wild who will step up from U18 level and ice for the Steeldogs for the remained of the season.

So many questions going into the game, Was the Phoenix train having problems in the station? Is Sheffields new Latvian a taller Ozolins? and, how bad would the ref be?

First Period: In typical fashion the game began physcial, loads of hits and hard work filled the first period, if no goals did. Both teams were working hard to close the opposition down as early as possible. Both sets of defence keeping their centre ice clear and clearing all the rebounds given out by the keepers. Sheffield (really Payette/G Wood) looked to target the likes of Duggan and Harabin early on. Trying to draw them into penalties, but with no success. In fact, it was quite amusing watching Payette getting so wound up. Why does he always target players who are smaller than him? Who knows! The period ended with no goals and only a few clear cut chances for either side. But with both goalies being too good for straight on shots. The Phoenix/Steeldogs would have to be a bit more clever.

Second Period: In all honesty, much of what I said above also applied to the second period. No goals, lots of physical play, some shocking decisions from the ref, both in calls made but more those he missed. Also, some terrible linesman decisions too! A trend began to appear in the second too, I don't think we got through one faceoff without it being blown dead instantly and reset. I don't remember it happening so often in one game. Sheffield will probably regret two of the chances that came their way in the second period. On two occasions they had breakaway opportunities only for Foney to stonewall them both times. He really stood tall for the Phoenix and showed he is playing with so much confidence right now.

Third Period: Scoreless after 40mins of hockey something would have to give eventually. I don't think many in the Ice Dome wanted to still be there at midnight! The breakthrough came after 43mins when Tom Duggan drove to the net and forced home his own rebound underneath Ben Bowns. The Ice Dome erupted and the deadlock was broken. This really spurred the Phoenix on and they slowly began to exert some control over the Steeldogs. If the first goal was scrappy, the second was lucky! After a bit of a melee round Bowns goal the puck broke to the right to Ciaran Long who span round, and whipped a backhand on goal. Bowns got a piece of the puck, only to deflect it onto the crossbar and into the goal. Hey, you need luck sometimes! Andre called a time-out to regroup and push for some goals. In the 51st minute some lovely play from the Phoenix saw Koulikov break in on goal and unleash a monster of a slapshot past Ben Bowns making the score 3-0 Phoenix. Shortly after a nasty incident happend to Ben Bowns in the Sheffield goal. After a Phoenix attack and subsequent scrum it appeared a Sheffield play,accidentally, hit Bowns in the throat, which left him needing medical attention. Thankfully Ben got up and skated back to the bench under his own steam. With backup netminder Dimitri Zimozdra in goal and being up 3-0 the Phoenix eased off and saw out the game giving Fone a deserved shutout!

Verdict: I always enjoy a win over Sheffield, it shows you can win a game without resorting to the dark arts. Sheffield play hard, but I despise the way they play the game. A hard fought win and one that gets the #phoenixtrain rolling once more!

Attendance: Midweek games never do much to generate a big crowd, but a decent turnout saw to a good atmosphere. I would say maybe 7-800 in the Ice Dome.

Phoenix 3 Sheffield 0 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 3 Sheffield 0 - CB Sport
Phoenix 3 Sheffield 0 - Steeldogs Article

Phoenix v Guildford Flames 21st Game Review

2012-01-30T18:36:00.002Z

After the indifferent start to the season from the Phoenix, heading into this home/away set against the Flames, the Phoenix were riding high and confident on the back of an 8 game win streak, which kicked off after the last home win against Milton Keynes. During the run the team has looked confident and has regained some healthy bodies. In fact, Tony Hand is the remaining injury concern for the Phoenix, he is expecting to be back playing during February. The Flames are the current top team in the EPL, and every game between the Phoenix and the Flames (insert appropriate DragonFornce reference here!) usually are epic encounters. Two teams who like to play hockey and have rosters stacked full of talented players.

Early news from the game saw the Phoenix without Sir Toe Knee of Hand and the Flames were without Sharp (suspended) and Curtis Huppe (injured).

First Period: From the first faceoff both teams went right at it, the early exchanges were tough with either team only carving out a few chances each. The Phoenix did well to keep the likes of Towe, Remple et all quiet and keep Mark Lee in goal busy. Meanwhile in the Phoenix net Steve Fone was playing like a man possessed. Pulling off some awesome saves, coupled with some glaring misses meant the Phoenix were holding firm. It was the Phoenix who broke the deadlock and delighted the home crowd. With the puck circling the Guildford zone, Ben Wood found some space on the hash marks to fire the puck past Mark Lee, Ben's second goal in as many games coming after 9min 49sec. Ladislav Harabin is obviously an easy player for opposition clubs to target, throughout the first period he had been 'enjoy' the attentions of some Flames players. Imagine his joy when, at 16min 59sec, he rifled a shot home for a PP goal. One very happy Harabin!

Second Period: With the Phoenix holding a deserved two goal lead the second period developed into somewhat of a chess match. Both teams working hard and cancelling each other out. Both Lee and Fone making great stops in their goals. The Phoenix also benefited from some shoddy finishing from the Flames. Which is very uncharacteristic of them, but there were at least two chances in the period where the Flames really should have scored.

Third Period: Within the first minute of the final session the Phoenix made, what was to be a decisive score, just 25sec into the period Juraj Faith scored the Phoenix third goal of the game. This really knocked the stuffing out of the Flames and set off the Ice Dome crowd. The Phoenix began to dominate the play and a fourth goal followed on the powerplay from Slava Koulikov, a lovely slap shot too! With the game winding down the Phoenix tried to ensure a shutout for Steve Phone. Sadly this wasn't to happen when, at 56min 08sec Savage unleashed a ripper of a shot to the top left corner. That was one hard shot, it was in and out of the goal before anyone even knew! Still, if you had offered me a 4-1 victory and the 9th on the bounce before the game, I would have ripped your hand off!

Verdict: A fantastic win for the Phoenix over title rivals, the recent run has given the team so much confidence and it shows! The team work hard, connect well, and Fone is seeing the puck as a beach ball at the moment. A deserved victory and one that makes you wonder, had the Phoenix had a full bench to begin the season, what shape would we be in now?

Attendance: A large crowd in the Dome, as they usually are against the Flames, so i'll guess around 1,500 in the Dome.

Phoenix 4 Guildford 1 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 4 Guildford 1 - Guildford Article
Phoenix 4 Guildford 1 - CB Sport

The Phoenix then returned to Guildford the night after looking to extend the run top 10 games. Sadly this was not to be and the Flames ran out 5-2 winners:

Guildford 5 Phoenix 2 - Phoenix Article
Guildford 5 Phoenix 2 - Guildford Article
Guildford 5 Phoenix 2 - CB Sport

Phoenix v MK Lightning 15th January Game Review

2012-01-17T19:43:00.002Z

The Phoenix went into last weekend on the back of an impressive 6 game winning streak, all thoughts of the early season troubles banished in many a keyboard warriors mind! ;-) The Phoenix, still without Tony Hand welcomed back Tom Duggan for the weekends games and, with Stephen Wallace back playing meant last seasons champions are just the one man short of a full roster. A trip to Bisonland saturday night, and an impressive 5-0 victory was followed by hosting the MK Lightning in Altrincham. An easy weekend to continue the streak, haha, this is the EPL, as if!

After a superb 5-0 win in Basingstoke the Phoenix faced the, not so insignificant task of the MK Lightning. A very talented team, ex EPL league winners, and a team that will always score. The Lightning always bring good away support and, with a fair number of fans filling the away block and a large home crowd, everyone settled in for another entertaining game.

First Period: The last time these two teams met in Altrincham it looked like MK were still on the bus. The Phoenix came out strong and dominated MK, this time was different. It was obvious Nick Poole was not going to let the same thing happen twice (insert applicable Lightning striking cliche here!). The opening session was played hard and physical with neither team really dominating the opening exchanges. The Phoenix got on the scoreboard first with Tom Duggan cementing his excellent return to the line up scoring a lovely goal after 96 seconds.....really must get him back in my fantasy Phoenix team! The Lightning kept in touch scoring their first before the game was three minutes old. Adam Carr levelling the game after 2min 51sec. This is about the time the Mr Boardman show took over, im not one for criticising referee's but (that's ironic) he was terrible. So many missed calls, dangerous ones too, he was awful for both teams. With the Phoenix on a penalty kill Tom Duggan stepped up and scored a wonderful Short Handed breakaway goal putting the Phoenix 2-1 up after 16min 43sec.

Second Period: A response from MK was assured, the Phoenix had dealt well with their aggression and play so far. The second period would turn out to be, almost, one long penalty kill for the Phoenix. As Mr Boardman's calls become more and more ridiculous! Phoenix won period one 2-1 MK would win this period by the same score. Juraj Gracik scored the levelling goal on the power play at 25min 04sec. Before the game reach the half way mark Juraj Faith got his first of the night putting the Phoenix ahead once more, at 29min 25sec. While the crowd were celebrating the Lightning hit right back and tied the game, once again, through Grant McPherson scoring at 30min 44sec. Not a classic period, the constant flow of penalties put paid to that! So 3-3 and heading into the final period, all to play for!

Third Period: 20mins of hockey would see the winner take the game Would it be the Phoenix, to extend their streak and the series hold over MK. Or would the Lightning halt the run and pull level in the series with the Phoenix? The Phoenix got the best start scoring the first goal of the period, Ben Wood stepping up and showing that, shooting a puck on net pays dividends some times. His hard/low shot from the blue line found its way under Mettam's legs and dribbled over the goal line. The Phoenix 4th goal coming at 44min 35sec. The next two goals for the Phoenix sealed the game and offered the respective players some payback for the 'attention' they had been getting from MK all game. Firstly #moveslikespelda got his goal at 47min 55sec on the powerplay and offered a salute to the fans. His rocket of a shot finding the net, he really does have an awesome slapshot! The biggest cheer of the game came for the next, and last, goal of the game. Ladislav Harabin scoring the 6th of the night on the powerplay again with a rocket from the blue line at 51min 22sec. With the Phoenix 6-3 up and MK not willing to pull Mettam the game finished with a 6-3 Phoenix victory.

Verdict: A tougher test this time from MK, but the Phoenix rose above all the on ice agitating to record another satisfying win over MK. Tom Duggan returned and looked like he had never been off the ice. One big big satisfaction from this game, and from the Bison game is the Phoenix secondary scoring. This has been excellent the past few games and is a big reason for the ongoing streak the Phoenix are enjoying. Half the Phoenix goals last night came from the Phoenix third line through Duggan and Wood. Big credit to that line!

Attendance: A big one again, a few newbies and groups swelling the numbers, so I will say 1,500 in the Ice Dome.

Phoenix 6 MK Lightning 3 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 6 MK LIghtning 3 - CB Sport

Desert Dogs-a-Howlin' - December

2012-01-05T18:31:00.004Z

A 16 game December is next for the Coyotes, a schedule not exactly relaxing for the festive month! There's no repeat of the epic 5 game road trip experienced in December but a packed month none-the-less. The month also gives the Yotes their first taste of action against the Oilers and NY Rangers. There'll be some banter with Gem over that game!

@Jets, First up for December was a return trip to Winnepeg to face the Jets.The Coyotes had won the first game in the series 4-1 at the Jobing and this was a chance for revenge back at the MTS centre. Going into the game the Coyotes were on a 2 game winning streak and expected a hostile reception. Despite being booed throughout the game the Coyotes pressured the jets all game, but the result would be a win for the Jets. Only one goal scored in the game through Bryan Little. So a disappointing return to Winnepeg but not the end of the world.

v Flyers, The Coyotes returned to Phoenix to take on the, aptly named, Flyers. Riding high and scoring loads of goals the Flyers took the game to the Phoenix and, effectivly, won it in the first period. The game would also see Mike Smith pulled for the first time this season conceding 4 goals on 17 shots. The stats don't look good for Smith, but the goalies can only do so much when the team in front is not helping out! The Flyers first period goals came from Read, Simmonds, Giroux and Hartnell. With LeBarbera in for the 2nd and 3rd periods the Coyotes steadied the ship and did not concede any further goals. In fact they staged a little comeback and make the score look a little more respectable. A second period goal from Whitney and a second goal in the final minute of the third from Boedker gave the home fans something to cheer about.

@Blackhawks, Just six days ago the Coyotes were in Chicago and left the windy city with both points, this time around the Coyotes would again leave Chicago with the win, but a much harder fought win this time. Once again the Coyotes jumped out to an early lead. By the end of the first session the Yotes were two goals to the good through Rafi Torres and Vrbata, damn that guy can't stop scoring! Yandle put the Coyotes 3-0 up early in the second, this goal seeming to wake up the Blackhawks as they scored soon after through Toews. Toews would cut the deficit again by deflecting a shot from the point by Duncan Keith. The game tying goal capped off the comeback when Patrick Kane was found on the back post to score in the top corner. A solid third period from the Coyotes saw the game head to OT and Penalty Shots, Oliver Ekman-Larsson got the game winner. So thats two games in Chicago and 4 points, as a Yotes fan, iv'e got to be happy with that!

@Nashville, The day after their win in Chicago the Coyotes head south to Nashville to take on the Predators. their previous game against the Pred's came on the day of Rinne's birthday and the day he signed a massive contract. The Coyotes were determined this would be different, the Coyotes took the lead just 9 seconds into the game through Taylor Pyatt. The Coyotes/Jets franchise record is 5 seconds, so nearly a new record! The Pred's did tie the game in the first period scoring with 12 seconds left in the session. What was it with the early/late goals!?!? No goals followed in the second period, but the third would burst into life. Ray Whitney put the Yotes ahead before Weber would, once again, tie the game. The two top players on the Phoenix roster would step up and secure the win. Shane Doan made a great play to find Keith Yandle to make the final score Preds 2 Coyotes 3!

@Detroit, The Coyotes rolled into Detroit on the back of two road wins in Chicago and Nashville, the game against Detroit would be their third in four nights and see the Yotes return to Detroit for the first time since being swept out of the playoffs last season. The Wings absolutely obliterated the Yotes in the first twenty minutes by scoring 5 unanswered goals. I think the Yotes were still on the plane or in a different time zone! Mike Smith came into the game in great form, yet he wouldn't last the period! Goals from Bertuzzi, Filppula, Holmstrom, Helm and Hudler sealed the win for the Wings early on. LeBarbera came in after the fourth and only conceded one more for the game. The Coyotes finally got on the board in the second thanks to a laser shot from Vrbata and the scoreline was made more respectable in the third after a PPG from Martin Hanzal. Normally I would not expect much going into Motor City, but had the first period been different, I wonder what the result may have been?

vWild, The Coyotes came back to the desert to face the high flying Wild and the slow start would hurt the Coyotes....again. After their first period capitulation to the Wings the Coyotes endured another awful start to the game, and were 4 nil down going into the last ten minutes. Mike Smith again in goal put alot of the blame on himself which can be a little unfair, there is only so much a goalie can do without a team in front of him! The other major issue at the moment is the Coyotes PP, dead last in the NHL standing at just 10%! That has to change if the Coyotes have any hope of winning games. The solitary scorer for the Coyotes was Korpikoski who scored at the 11min mark in the third period. A disappointing loss, especially as the Coyotes were leading the Pacific Division coming into the game.

@Ducks, The Coyotes headed off to California for their next game against the Anaheim Ducks, the Ducks worked hard and came out of the game with a well deserved 4-1 victory. Martin Hanzal getting the only goal for the Yotes. Despite spending much of the second period in the Ducks zone the Coyotes only had the one goal to show for their efforts. The Ducks outworking and out thinking the Coyotes across the ice. Mike Smith was again in goal and unfortunately for him picked up the loss too.

vOilers. The Coyotes needed a big game, a bounceback game, and the Oilers gave it to them. The Coyotes worked hard and traded goals with the Oilers, but ground out a 4-2 victory massively out shooting the Oilers 42-20 in the process. Korpikoski and Vrbata scored hussel goals for the Coyotes only to be pegged back by Taylor Hall, both times, to bring Edmonton back into the game. After Hall made the scores 2-2 6mins into the third period the next goal was always going to be massive. This is where you need your franchise players to step up, and Shane Doan did just that! Oliver Ekman-Larsson added a 4th goal for insurance and the Coyotes got the deserved win, dominating the Oilers over the full 60minutes. The game also giving Mike Smith a morale boosting win!

vRangers, Rangers were next to the Desert and this game would see a heartbreak ending. The Rangers took the lead through Gaborik only for Korpikoski netting a short handed goal with 9 sec left in the first period. The Coyotes would take the lead in the second period with Cal O'Reilley scoring a PPG, that special team unit really clicking for the Yotes. The Ranges pegged them back early in the third period when Gaborik scored his second of the night. That goal was Gaborik's 300th in the NHL. The game was destined for OT only for Ryan McDonagh for the Rangers battled in the corner, back handed a pass towards the goal for Brad Richards to deflect it goalwards. After review the goal was ruled good and the Rangers won the game with 0.1 seconds to go. As I said, a real heartbreaking end!

@Panthers, the Coyotes had to wait three nights to get over the pain of losing a game with a tenth of a second to go. The opposition this time were the Florida Panthers. Perhaps this game saw lady luck smile on the Coyotes after she so harsly ditched them against the Rangers. The Coyotes went 2-0 after the first half of the game through goals from Whitney and Vrbata, both PPG's showing that unit finally clicking. The Panthers narrowed the gap through Brian Campbell in the second setting up a close third period. Just before lady luck got warmed up, she would give the Coyotes one last kick, Mike Smith suffering a groin injury just 3mins into the period. LeBarbera came in and would be involved in the moment where Lady Luck shone for the Coyotes. Stephen Weiss got a penalty shot opportunity late on for the Panthers but LeBarbera pulled off a big save and the puck trickled towards the goal line only to stop short. Giving the Coyotes the win!

@Hurricanes, A stanley cup winner with the Hurricanes, Ray Whitney returned to Raleigh and in front of friends and family got the Coyotes rolling towards a great 4-3 win. A win which saw the Yotes come from 3-1 down in fact! After allowing Ruutu, Nodi and Tlusty to fire the Hurricanes into the lead the Coyotes dug deep and hit back with 3 unanswered of their own. Further goals coming from O'Reiley, Klesla and Korpikoski with the game winner. So a satisfying return for Whitney, and a welcome break from the Coyotes 1-11-1 record when trailing after the first two sessions. They hung around and it paid dividends!

vBlues, The Blues came to town and, on the day the Coyotes inducted Keith Tkachuk into their ring of honour the Blues would be the party poopers! No goals came in the first period the Blues won the second 2-1 and fought a hard 1-1 third to get the 3-2 win. Steen and D'Agostini for the Blues and Doan for the Yotes were the scorers in the second period. Arnott and Yandle traded markers in the third and it finished 3-2 Blues. The 30 minute induction ceremony may have contributed to the sluggish start, but its remarkable to think that all but 18 games of Tkachuk's career were played for the Blues and Coyotes!

@Kings, The injury hit Coyotes went to Los Angeles to take on the Kings on the back of a western conference leading away form of 11-6-1. Unfortunately that road record would count for nothing when a combination of injuries and the LA Kings offence turning up saw the home side skate out with a 4-3 win. LeBarbera was in goal once again but then gaveway to Curtis McElhinney after conceding the 4th goal of the night. Scuderi, Torres and Richardson traded goals in the first period leaving it 2-1 Kings. Torres got his second of the night with the only marker of the second period. Mitchell and Brown gave the Kings the advantage in the third period and only one goal for the Coyotes Langkow gave the home side the win.

vBruins, The Stanley Cup champions came to town and a soldout Jobing.com awaited them. Before the puck drop I would have said the Coyotes would be lucky to get anything from the game, but in reality they came so close to the win! In a game short on goals the Bruins exploded out the blocks with a goal after just 47 seconds from David Krejci. Ray Whitney got his 13th of the season and tied the game 1 a piece. It would stay this way all the way into OT. Before OT was even 1 minute old lady luck deserted the Coyotes, a shot from Dennis Seidenberg deflected off Coyotes defenceman Derek Morris between LeBarbera's pads giving the Bruins the extra point! So a point against the Bruins.....i'll take that!

@Avalanche, The Coyotes went to Colorado to face a team who's past seven wins have been by one goal margins. The teams traded goals throughout the first and second periods with the Avs going first. Kevin Porter, then Mikkel Boedker made it 1-1. Then Stefan Elliot and Mikkel Boedker (again) made it 2-2. With the scores tied, win the third and you win the game. Gabriel Landeskog would score the only marker of the third session to give the Avs yet another close win.

@Wild, The coyotes went to Minnesota to avenge their early month loss to the Wild in the Jobing.com arena. A season high crowd in the Excel Energy Centre greeted both sides. Curits McElhinney was in goal once again as the injury riddled Coyotes looked to get back to winning ways. No goals in the first period gave way to two in the second. Pierre-Marc Bouchard scoring first for the Wild only for Langkow to score a PPG to tie the game. The fourth period went crazy with goals. A pair for Radim Vrbata would give the Coyotes the ultimate edge in the third period. Matt Cullen scored a penalty shot to make the scores 3-2 and, I was even able to listen to the last 5mins on my phone through the NHL gamecentre app McElhinney stood tall for the Coyotes and stoned the Wild in the dying minutes. Ray Whitney broke into centre ice and was able to add the empty netter for the Coyotes.

The Coyotes went 6-9-1 through the month of December!

Phoenix v Bracknell Bees 2nd January Game Review

2012-01-04T19:35:00.002Z

The first game of 2012 was preceded by a trip to MK for the Phoenix on the 30th December:

MK 1 Phoenix 4 - Phoenix Article
MK 1 Phoenix 4 - CB Sport

The Phoenix came into this game on the back of a three game winning run, the Bees are an improved side this year. Mainly through the acquisitions of Masa and Smital from Guildford. Despite this, this game should be one the Phoenix look to win every night. So far in the EPL the Bees have played the Phoenix 7 times and are yet to register a point. As ever, records are there to be broken!

First Period: The game began, much like many against the Bees in Altrincham do, with lots of Phoenix pressure, and little for the Bees. Despite being camped in the Bees zone the Phoenix could not find an early way past Carl Ambler in net, Ambler playing out of his skin and seeing the puck like a football. The Bees were not completely shutout in the period, Martin Masa and Lukas Smital lead their charge and carved out a few chances of their own. If one stat could show the domination, the Phoenix had 17 shots on goal during the period. Credit to the Bees they kept the Phoenix mainly to the outside and swept up any rebounds quickly.

Second Period: The home crowd were stunned when the Bees took the lead just 66sec into the period when Scott Spearing, who some thought should not even be on the ice, scored. This was a goal I think Foney will want back. The Phoenix re-doubled their efforts and continued their domination of the game. Thankfully the breakthrough was made just after the half hour mark. A shot by Faith was tipped by Koulikov to bring the Phoenix level scoring at 32min 38sec. Just 4 minutes later the Phoenix took the lead when Spelda unleashed a rocket from the blue line, Ambler had no chance. The Phoenix went into the second intermission 2-1 up, had it not been for Ambler the Phoenix could have been out of sight!

Third Period: The Phoenix pressure continued in the third period, the theme continued with Ambler in amazing form. The Phoenix could not complain with the number of chances they were getting, but none seemed to be of good enough quality. The chances were not being taken, and in true storybook fashion, what happens when a team leading 2-1 fails to take its chances? That's right, the opposition equalise! Lukas Smital getting the game levelling goal after excellent hard work on the boards, he fired past Fone who had no clue where the puck was! No further goals came and, like Sheffield before, the game was headed for an extra session.

Overtime: The OT period started and the Phoenix blasted out the blocks, going straight to the Bees zone the Phoenix pressured the net and, just 36 seconds into the OT period the puck was cycled round to Koulikov who blasted the puck past Ambler, Giving the Phoenix the 3-2 victory.

Verdict: A strange game, utter domination from the Phoenix, and yet it was a hard ground out type of win. In reality, had it not been for the heroics from Ambler in goal this game could have seen double figures from the Phoenix. The only downside for me, was the wasted opportunities. Had the Phoenix been playing a Slough or Guildford the result could well have been different!

Attendance: Not quite the same bumper crowd as against Sheffield but a good one none-the-less, i'll guess at around 1,200 in.

Phoenix 3 Bracknell 2 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 3 Bracknell 2 - CB Sport
Phoenix 3 Bracknell 2 - Bees Article

Phoenix v Sheffield Steeldogs 27th December Game Review

2012-01-03T18:32:00.002Z

The Sheffield Steeldogs came to town to kick off the Phoenix festive run, two home games and a trip to MK covered the period coming off the back of the great win against MK. Steeldog games are no longer easy ones for the Phoenix and this boxing day encounter would prove to be a classic. The biggest crowd of the season gathered to blow the christmas cobwebs out their system and enjoy a hard fought night of hockey in Altrincham.

First Period: With the Ice Dome jumping both teams got at it and it was clear this would be another tough physical battle. The two sides exchanged early chances and Fone/Bowns were found in good form. Sadly for the home crowd the Steeldogs would get the jump on the Phoenix and race to a two goal lead. Ex Telford Tiger Ashley Calvert got the Dogs first goal, then Edgar Bebris doubled their lead on 11min 19sec. the home side pushed hard, buoyed on by the Phoenix faithful only to be denied by the hardworking Steeldogs. The first period ended 2-0 Dogs but shots on goal were even.

Second Period: The first intermission looked to have boosted the Phoenix. The first was dominated by the Dogs on the scoreboard, the second period was all Phoenix. Early on in the period Martin Cingel got the home side on the board, only for Stuart Brittle to restore Sheffield's two goal advantage. The trade of goals happened once more when Slava Koulikov scored for the Phoenix only for Brittle to score his second at the half hour mark to, once again, restore the advantage. The Phoenix pressed hard and the Ice Dome exploded when the Phoenix got on level terms towards the end of the period. Ciaran Long scored a superb effort, and a just reward for his hard work in the game so far. Then Wallace lifted the roof with a superb top shelf wrister from the face off circle at 38min 43sec.

Third Period: No goals came from the last session, but plenty of pressure and talking points did. Ex Phoenix favorite Pavel Gomeniuk was ejected from the game for a late hit on Ciaran Long. This 10min penalty coupled with an earlier misconduct penalty saw him ejected from the game. Plenty of big hits were thrown and chances given, but Fone and Bowns were in no mood to concede the winner. As the period ticked by the Phoenix had a few PP opportunities but could not find the net.

Overtime: The extra session could not separate the sides and the Phoenix had to kill off some penalty trouble towards the end of the 5 minutes. Both sides deserved to take a point from the game, it would now be down to penalties to see who got the win.

Penalty Shots: Never liked penalty shots and never will! Having said that, the Phoenix started brilliantly with Koulikov and Faith, taking the same route up ice, to score. With Sheffield missing their first chance, it was advantage Phoenix. Greg Wood scored for Sheffield and then Wallace missed the game winning penalty shot. So all down to Bebris vs Fone and BT came up big in blanking Bebris...win for the Phoenix!

Verdict: Great game, great win for the Phoenix in front of a big big crowd in the Ice Dome. Sheffield are a team I will not enjoy losing too, for the simple fact in how they go about playing hockey. Gomeniuk's actions in the game were horrible, Greg Wood is turning into a little ****, which is a shame as he played brilliantly for the Phoenix. As said further up, both teams deserved a point from the game, the Phoenix deserved the win!

Attendance: Biggest of the season, so i'll guess at 1,700+

Phoenix 5 Sheffield 4 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 5 Sheffield 4 - CB Sport
Phoenix 5 Sheffield 4 - Steeldogs Article

Phoenix v Milton Keynes Lightning 18th December Game Review

2011-12-23T08:41:00.002Z

MK visited the Ice Dome sunday night for another installment of their rivalry with the Phoenix. So far, since the arrival into the EPL the Phoenix/MK battles have always been a highlight for me. Two teams who like to play hockey, and are a joy to watch. Plus the MK faithful always travel in numbers and make plenty of noise. Last sunday was no exception! Prior to sundays action the Phoenix traveled south to Slough and the result.....well.....less said about that the better!

Anyway onto the MK game:

First Period: I will admit, going into this game I was not expecting much for the Phoenix, I expected us to come out of the game empty handed! How wrong could I have been? The spanking down in Slough looked like it hurt the Phoenix, and they came out fighting against MK. The game started fast, it started physical, some bi hits being handed out. The likes of Harabin, Spelda, Wood and Long meeting out some great hits. It would be the Phoenix third line that got the first goal. A real beaut it was too! Hard work from Duggan down the left wing created a 2 on 1 with Ciaran Long, Tom found Ciaran and Ciaran scored the first goal of the game. The joy in the celebration was matched by the joy in the stands. A real reward for those two who work hard on each and every shift. That first goal coming at 7min 36sec. The Phoenix continued to press and another goal followed, Martin Cingel getting in on the act scoring at 11min 55sec. The period continued much the same with both teams battling and the fans in the stands creating a memorable atmosphere! The period ended 2-0 Phoenix, but the dreaded second period was up next!

Second Period: After the Phoenix edged the first, much to MK's surprise, MK upped their game in the second and it proved to be an even contest. The same hard flowing hockey continued and it really was great to watch. Each and every fan getting their moneys worth! Only one goal came in the period and it came to MK, Jamieson scoring at 26min 06sec.

Third Period: With just one goal in it the Phoenix had to expect MK to come hard in the final session. They did and on the PP were able to tie the game. An excellent PP with MK moving the puck around quickly and that man, Jamieson again, popped up to score the game tying goal, at 46min 07sec. Despite being pegged back, the Phoenix showed no signs of caving in, regrouped and began to re-assert their stamp on the game. Going into the last 10minutes the Phoenix would seal the game. Martin Cingel scoring his second of the night at 52min 19sec then his hattrick goal following at 57min 41sec. This one a real killer, as Cingel threw the puck on net from the red line, and found the smallest game between Mettam's pads and the post. Cue delirium in the stands.

Verdict: Having lost the previous 3 homes games and an absolute spanking in Slough the night before the mood in the Ice Dome was tense. But the fans rose to the occasion and created an awesome atmosphere. The MK faithful did their bit and contributed to a fantastic nights entertainment, and the teams rose to it too. Phoenix/MK is a battle that cannot be missed. The Phoenix put in a performance we knew they could do, but for some reason couldn't so far this season. The 9-0 in Slough the catalyst for an awesome response sunday night. The Phoenix played fast, skillful and hard, they put in lots of hits and harassed the MK players all game. As a result they could own the ice. This was a big game for the Phoenix and the fans, and neither disappointed!

Attendance: Great crowd, great noise, with the extra away fans in, ill guess at 1,200 in the Ice Dome.

Phoenix 4 MK 2 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 4 MK 2 - CB Sport

Phoenix v Guildford Flames 11th December Game Review

2011-12-14T06:31:00.003Z

The Flames came to the ice dome saturday night and in doing so, brought back Phoenix favourites Curtis Huppe and Andrew Sharp to Altrincham. Going into the game the Phoenix form suggested this would be a walkover for Guildford although, having said that, the Phoenix usually play better on a saturday now! Even so, with the Phoenix hit by injuries, although boosted by three Metro's ENL players joining the bench, the Phoenix would still be understaffed against a strong Flames roster. How the Phoenix would love to have the luxury of 'extra' players sitting around to bring in! Anyway, games against the Flames have always been fun, as they are a team, like the Phoenix, who like to play hockey.

First Period: The first period started and continued with some great end to end hockey, both sides working hard but Guildford did edge the opening exchanges. Enjoying the greater of the possession the Flames began to increase the pressure on the Phoenix, and their slick style began to open up holes in the Phoenix defence. So it was no surprise that the Flames took the lead, Branislav Kvetan opening the scoring at 10min 09sec. Nathan Rempel doubled their lead less than four minutes later at 13min 42sec. Even at this early stage it looked like lights out for the Phoenix. But, count them out at your peril, current Phoenix hero Tom Duggan finally got the Phoenix on the board when his perseverance was rewarded with a goal, coming at 17min 23sec.

Second Period: The second started in the worst possible way when the Flames, on the power play, extended their lead. The usual PP format so far was, the Phoenix being unable to set up in the Flames zone when enjoying the man advantage, and the Flames set up and camped in the Phoenix zone. The goal, brilliantly worked, came from ex Phoenix sniper Curtis Huppe. Scoring just 23sec into the period. At 2min 53sec Rick Plant extended Guildford's lead to 4-1, a massive mountain for the Phoenix to climb to get anything from this game. Astonishingly the Phoenix powerplay worked and the deficit was cut by one goal as Cingel scored at 12min 40sec. Despite the scoreline so far, the Phoenix had maintained their effort during this game, which marked a nice change from recent home games.

Third Period: This got interesting in the third period, as Guildford had done in the second, the Phoenix scored a quick goal to make it tense. Ciaran Long, like Tom Duggan, getting a reward for his tireless performances scoring 47sec into the final session. The large crowd in the dome picked up and the atmosphere really got rocking. Iv'e never been to the Spectrum but, by most accounts it's a library, so I urge the Guildford fans who were in attendance, that is what an atmosphere should be! Bouncing! The Phoenix continued to press and, astonishingly, began to dominate the Flames. Yes, you read that right, the Phoenix, with their depleted resources and sketchy home form, were bossing the Flames. They pressed and pressed and, going into the final minute, pulled Fone for the extra attacker. The Flames were able to police their own zone and managed to break Phoenix hearts with an empty net goal from Jez Lundin at 19min 40sec.

Verdict: The dire expectations before the puck drop proved to be unfounded. This was a good performance from the Phoenix, much more heart and effort shown and a battling performance against a very good Flames team. Taking my Phoenix spec's off I do believe the Phoenix deserved something from the game. Maybe not the win, but a point at least. But myself, and many others, left the Ice Dome buoyed by the improved performance on the ice. Now the Flames, they look the part this year, best performance by a visiting team so far in Altrincham. With the team they have, they should win this league. Where it may fall down for them is their goaltending, Lee is not quite the best in the EPL and could prove to be the only (slight) weak link.

Attendance: Some more newbies in for the game, and they were treated to something special. I'd say around 1,200 in the Ice Dome.

Phoenix 3 Guildford 5 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 3 Guildford 5 - CB Sport
Phoenix 3 Guildford 5 - Guildford Article

The Phoenix played away sunday over in Peterborough, a tough place to get a result, but the Phantoms are now without Stephen Wall. A big factor in their ability to get results. That said, the Phoenix are inconsistent at the moment and lacking numbers. Thankfully the Phoenix avoided a null point weekend and got the win and a valuable two points. Even more pleasingly, as I have mentioned before there has been alot of recent negativity directed towards Juraj Faith, alot of it unwarranted in my eyes. One poster on the Phoenix forum even going so far as to suggest we fire him and fill his roster place with a metros player. Imagine my wry smile when Faith picked up two goals and the MOM from the Phantoms game sunday night. Where's your smart comments now, hey?

Phoenix v Basingstoke Bison 4th December Game Review

2011-12-09T19:17:00.002Z

The past weekend saw the Phoenix take on the Bees in Bracknell and the Basingstoke Bison in the Altrincham Ice Dome. Games against the Bees are no easy task nowerdays, after they poached the dangerous duo of Masa and Smital. That being said if you are able to deal with those two, you just have to contend with their physical play. Thankfully the Phoenix did the job and emerged with a credible 6-2 victory. The game will be remembers for Luke 'The Killer' Boothroyd handing it out to Scott Spearing and has instantly become a Phoenix hero!

Onto sunday and the not so insignificant prospect of the Basingstoke Bison, a team the Phoenix moved to the EPL with and one who the Phoenix enjoy many a good game. So far this season each side has been unable to beat the other in their own rink, weird!! The last meeting between the sides came in Bisonland and the Phoenix left the Basingstoke arena with the win. Back at the Dome you would hope for a home win, but history in this series, and the Phoenix current rollercoaster form spoke otherwise!

First Period: With recent games in mind the Phoenix faithful began the game with a certain edge or nervousness, that quickly disappeared as the Phoenix came out the blocks fighting. This was a physical performance from the Phoenix, they came out and worked hard, hit hard, and really dominated the opening stages. It would be no surprises then, that the Phoenix got on the board first, when Koulikov out the first goal on the board for the Phoenix at 3min 18sec, continuing his current hot streak. The Phoenix doubled their lead just after the ninth minute when Martin Cingel got on the scoresheet scoring from the back post off an excellent centering pass by Koulikov. Two goals up and, sadly, the Phoenix looked like they eased off and began to let the Bison back into the game. Kubenko who, had been quiet in the game so far, really came on in the latter half of the first period. He is big, very skillful and a dangerous player. He scored the Bison's first goal at 12.26 to make the scores 2-1.

Second Period: The second period would prove to be a killer, the Phoenix began to tire and commit some pretty bad mistakes in the defensive zone and leaving Fone out to dry. A 45 second spell at the halfway period of the game did it for the Phoenix. First Kubenko stepped up once again to score at 29min 17sec to tie the game. Then the killer, go ahead goal came from Joe Miller. Advancing down the far wing he moved past the Phoenix defence with ease, dragged the puck into the middle, waited for Fone to commit and slotted the puck easily into the open net. A real gutting goal and one that took the wind right out Phoenix sails.

Third Period: Damage limitation or a fight back? Despite loosing the lead the Phoenix tried to dig deep and get something from the game. They worked hard, but missing Hand/Wallace and other players not being 100% really began to show and the Phoenix tired. Within the first two minutes, however, the Ice Dome would see, possibly, the goal of the season. Its one worth checking out Phoenix TV from the 6th December just to watch it over and over again! Ladislav Harabin had the puck behind the Phoenix net, only to set off up the ice and deak/stick handle his way through the entire Bison line, while being slashed/tripped to slot the puck into the top right shelf while on his knees! A real show reel goal, and one that showcases his skill and strength! The home side on a high? Sadly the Bison would hit back and score, what would be the game winning goal, through Nicky Chinn at 46min 10sec. One goal down, going into the final minute, the Phoenix call a timeout and pull Steve Fone. The Bison also pick up a penalty so the Phoenix go 6 on 4, the 30sec with the advantage were spent in centre ice or the Phoenix zone as they never got set up. So a disappointing 4-3 loss in the end!

Verdict: Quite where and when this win/loss form will end for the Phoenix is anyone's guess. But with Wallace out till the new year and Hand unknown as to when he will return. The Phoenix injury crisis does not look like its going to end soon! The game was another frustrating one, a good first period, bad second, and a fighting/tired third period from the Phoenix against a Bison side they know they can beat. The Bison were good, not great, but played a good road game in frustrating the Phoenix. The most worrying aspect from the night for me, we had 500 newbies in the Ice Dome, who witnessed a bad loss, like the Slough game these home losses will start to hurt, As I've tweeted for a while, I would absolutely trade this good away wins for home wins right now!

Attendance: Boosted by the 500 newbies in the Ice Dome there must have been a crowd of 1,100 to 1,200 in the Ice Dome.

Phoenix 3 Basingstoke 4 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 3 Basingstoke 4 - Bison Article
Phoenix 3 Basingstoke 4 - CB Sport

Desert Dogs-a-Howlin' - November

2011-12-08T20:45:00.003Z

October is done and in the can, November will prove to be a tough month for the Coyotes. 13 games and a killer five game road trip in the middle visiting both the west and east coasts of America!

@ Avalanche, The Coyotes opened November with a trip to Colorado and the Mile High city to take on the Colorado Avalanche. The Avalanche came into the game with a good record, 7 wins going into the game and the Yotes came in on the back of a two game winning streak. It would be a tough game for the team from the desert and needed some big performances. The Coyotes got them, once again Mike Smith came up big in the game turning away 39 of 40 shots to give the Yotes dependable goaltending. Of the skaters Radim Vrbata had a two goal game including one spectacular goal as he was taken down from behind. While the Coyotes advanced to a third win in a row, they condemned the Avalanche to their fourth defeat in five on home ice. The team famed for its sell out streak is struggling! The Coyotes....are starting to warm up!

v Predators, Nashville, a difficult place to play a game and, with Rinne fresh from signing a seven year $49mil contract extension the Coyotes had to get past a goalie who would be in the form of his life and happier than larry! Unfortunately for the Dog's luck was just not on their side in Nashville, LeBarbara started in place of the red hot Mike Smith and was done by two pieces of bad luck, nothing to do with him! The first was the go ahead goal for the Predators which went through traffic and the legs of a Nashville player before sneaking past LeBarbaba. The second was a turnover from Korpikoski which gave the Predators a 2 on 0. In the end, the birthday boy millionaire was in such good form the Coyotes were unable to breakthrough and left Nashville with null points!

v Oilers, After the loss in Nashville the Coyotes returned home to take on the hot Edmonton Oilers who went into the game on the back of a six game winning streak. A scoreless first period gave way to a two goal second period which would give the Coyotes the edge. Daymond Langkow and Adrian Aucoin scored goals and the Coyotes defence strangled the Oilers offence to send the Yotes on the way to a 4-2 victory. Further goals coming from Boyd Gordon and a sixth for Ray Whitney, an empty net goal. This defence first mentality the Coyotes brought to the ice also brought head coach Dave Tippet his 100th win behind the Yotes bench. What better way than to celebrate the milestone with a home win at the Jobing!

v Canadiens, The Coyotes second game at home, in a row, saw the men from Montreal come to the desert. The Canadiens arrived missing three forwards and facing a three game skid the Canadiens would be hungry. With Langkow missing due to family reasons the Phoenix toplines had to be juggled around and it showed. With the Coyotes goals coming from their third and fourth lines. Despite withstanding a 34 shot Montreal first period the Coyotes could not get the win in regulation. But thanks to Mikkel Boedker and Raffi Torres the game went to OT, only for the Canadiens Josh Gorges to seal the extra point for the Canadiens. Against a team like Montreal who, I would expect to be challenging come the post season, to get a point, im a happy Coyotes fan. While a home win would be so much better, 1 point is better than a big fat 0!

@ Sharks, After the loss to Montreal the Phoenix headed to California to face division rivals the San Jose Sharks. This game would also give the Coyotes a chance to atone for their opening day loss to the Sharks in Cali, when they allowed 52 shots. So far this season the Coyotes have been red hot when scoring first, since Dave Tippet took over the Coyotes have won 73 games when scoring first. It's almost like the stars were aligning for a Phoenix win after the first period, as the Yotes exploded out the blocks. After the first session the Yotes were 2-0 to the good through goals from Vrbata and Boyd Gordon. The Coyotes now had to ensure that lead was not surrendered! Step up Mike Smith, he did and then some! Only one more goal would be scored....by a Coyote! Patrick O'Sullivan got the insurance and Mike Smith got the shutout!

@ Maple Leafs, The Phoenix roadtrip continued with a trip to Toronto to face an improved Maple Leafs, after picking up an OT loss and a win the Coyotes were up to 3 points so far on the road trip. The Coyotes once again played an excellent first period and, again, would find themselves 2-0 up after the first session. First period goals from Shane Doan and Oliver Ekman-Larsson would see the Yotes into the lead up until the third period. Mike Komisarek and Phil Kessel brought the Leafs back into the game, and forced OT. With no goals scored we went to every fan's favourite hockey time, the shootout! Thankfully Mike Smith came up big again and saved both Toronto's attempts in the shootout while O'Sullivan and Vrbata scored with theirs, giving the Yotes the win!

@ Flyers, Next up for the Yotes roadtrip was a trip to Philadelphia and the first game against ex Coyotes Ilya Bryzgalov. The game would turn out to be an old fashioned goalie duel with new Phoenix nettie Mike Smith coming up against his predecessor. In fact, so tight was the game that, it was only decided with just 18.6seconds left on the clock. The Flyers went ahead in the second period through James van Riemsdyk only for Boedker to tie the game early in the third period. Matt Read got the winning goal and give Bryzgalov the win against his old team. The victory for the Flyers also broke the Coyotes five game road win streak.

@ Sabres, The Coyotes turned north and headed to Buffalo for game four of this roadtrip and for the first time ever in his NHL career gave Paul Bissonnette a chance to play in front of family. With around 50 family in attendance Bissonnett would break a 2-2 tie and give the Coyotes the go-ahead goal and impetus to win. Towards the mid point of the game Phoenix and Buffalo traded goals. Doan and Vrbata scoring for Phoenix and Adam and Kaleta scoring for the Sabres. In fact Vrbata and Bissonnette's goals came within 70 seconds of each other and really knocked the stuffing out of the Sabres. Buffalo only managed 15 shots after and the Coyotes were the only team to score another goal. Radim Vrbata getting his second of the game, an empty net goa, with just over a minute to go.
http://www.nhl.com/ice/recap.htm?id=2011020276&navid=sb:recap

@ Capitals, The last stop in the Coyotes west to east roadtrip ended in the nations capital against the Capitals. In the end it was almost de-ja-vu for the Coyotes, facing an opposition on the slide and a head coach on the cusp of a milestone victory. The capitals on the back of a 6 in 7 loss streak and Boudreau looking for win number 200! Phoenix, with LeBarbara in net looked to spoil the party by jumping to a 2-0 lead through goals from Vrbata and Korpikoski, both short handed in fact look to have put the Yotes on the way. Only for Washington to score 4 unanswered to ultimately win the game. That comeback coming from Carlson, Eakin, Backstrom and Laich. Korpikoski would get his second of the game to bring the Yotes within one, but the comeback was not to be and the Caps held out for Boudreau's 200th win.

v Ducks, The Yotes returned to warmer and more familiar climbs after their epic road trip, to begin a three game homestand against Division rivals the Ducks. Despite the Ducks scoring first through Koivu the Coyotes hit right back with 4 unanswered goals to win the game. Mike Smith proving he has the Ducks figured out improved to 5-0-1 against the Ducks. The Phoenix hot streak came from Yandle, Eckman-Larsson and current player in form Vrbata with two. Vrbata's pair of goals lifting him to 11 for the season. Corey Perry would get his 8th of the season and the Ducks second of the game but the Yotes got the win and began the homestand with the W.

v Canucks, Last seasons Stanley Cup finalists were next to come to the desert and bring the much heralded Sedin twins to the Jobing ice. Going into the game I would have expected a loss, but would have been delighted with a point. Unfortunately it wasn't to be and the Canucks rolled the Coyotes and left with a 5-0 shutout and two points. Mike Smith's recent hot form, 8-1-1 over a month and a save % of .946 was blown out of the water by goals from Salo, Kesla, Booth, LaPierre and Burrows. The one possible bright spot for Tippet and the Coyotes was the penalty kill unit. Phoenix stopped the NHL's best PP unit on all 5 chances and 1min 31sec of 5 on 3. Not many positives but an impressive one none the less!

v Stars, After such a tough loss against the Canucks the Coyotes welcomed the Stars to Phoenix. So far the Coyotes had managed to surrender winning positions to the Stars late in the game, this would be an opportunity to right that wrong. The game also saw Langkow return to the coyotes lineup after his own personal tragedy. The Coyotes were brilliant, after surrendering those late leads and two OT losses to Dallas the Coyotes responded with a 3-0 shutout win on home ice. That shutout was Smith's 13th of his career and improves him to 3-0-0 against the Stars in regulation. The Coyotes goals came from Boedker, Whitney and Pyatt.

@ Blackhawks, The Coyotes rolled into Chicago to take on the Blackhawks and played their best road form. Able to play their hard-checking, suffocating style of play the Coyotes raced into the lead and never looked back. With Mike Smith in fine form between the pipes the Coyotes took the lead in the first period through Daymond Langkow's fourth goal of the season. Shane Doan then blasted a slap shot from the right circle that went straight through Crawford, giving the Yotes a 2-0 lead midway through the game. The Coyotes wrapped up the game in the first 5 minutes of the third period, Vrbata continuing his hot streak scoring the Yotes 3rd just after the start of the period and Whitney making it four at the 5min mark. The Blackhawks finally gave their fans something to cheer about when they got their only goal of the game in the last minute, denying Mike Smith a shutout, Patrick Sharp making the final score 4-1 Coyotes.

Coyotes end the month 8-4-1

Phoenix v Slough Jets 27th November Game Review

2011-12-01T09:27:00.002Z

The weekends games saw the Phoenix travel down to Basingstoke to take on the Bison before returning to the Dome to play Slough. After the Phoenix much improved performance over Peterborough last sunday in the bank, saturday's game was a chance to carry on the revival, however, full concentration would be needed as the Bison are no easy team to play, especially in their own barn. In the end the Phoenix beat my own expectations, despite going down to the Bison the Phoenix scored 5 un-answered to come back to Altrincham with a 5-1 victory and both points on offer. Setting things up nicely and the Phoenix first shot at a 4 point weekend in a while!

First Period: Games against Slough have always been tough, ever since joining the EPL the Jets have had a good record against the Phoenix. In the Greener brothers they have some of the leagues best agitators, in Dan Davies they have one of the best Brits and in Calder and Pliskauskas they have two of the EPL's best forwards. The first period was entertaining, fast and relatively even but with Slough creating most of the clear cut chances. Only one goal came of the period, and came for Slough. Showing just how tight the margins are in this league, Calder was left alone on the hashmarks for one second and unleashed a laser of a wrist shot into the Phoenix net. 1-0 Slough and probably a fair return for their efforts, the goal coming at 7min 59sec.

Second Period: What followed, quite simply, was the worst period of hockey from the Phoenix I have seen yet! Slough utterly dominated the Phoenix and the Phoenix looked absolutely lost. Slough's onslaught began less than two minutes into the period when Calder got his second of the game at 21min 51sec. Their third and fourth goals came within two minutes of each other, with J Greener scoring on the powerplay at 27min 57sec and Dough Sheppard scoring a short handed goal at 29min 51sec. In fact that passage of play summed the Phoenix up this period. The Phoenix had, up to this point, had a couple of PP opportunities and struggled, again, to get set up in the opposition zone. Slough get a PP and score within 3 seconds! Then, as they are killing a penalty score a short handed goal. Then when Dan Davies got their 5th at 35min 21sec the Phoenix looked dead and buried. Im not sure if anyone did leave at that point but, I would have forgiven them for doing so!

Third Period: If the second period was the worst i'd ever seen at the Dome, the third showed the Phoenix grew a pair and started to fight and claw their way back into the game. After bemoaning the PP earlier above, it would be the Phoenix PP that would haul them back into the game. Tom Duggan scored first, getting another goal and deservedly so for his recent performances. His goal came at 44min 37sec, less than a minute and a half later Jaroslav Spelda capped his comeback game with a goal at 45min 54sec. Phoenix tails were up, the Phoenix faithful were right back in the game and the pressure continued. Slava (Dave) Koulikov score the Phoenix third goal at 49min 00sec to bring the Phoenix within two. But, despite pulling Fone for the extra attacker no further goals were scored and Slough headed back south with a 5-3 victory.

Verdict: A real chance missed for a four point weekend, one of the worst 20mins of play by a Phoenix team, and for over 40mins of the game absolutely nothing to tempt the hundreds of newbies in the Ice Dome. I am delighted the Phoenix showed some fight and got back into the game, certainly made the scoreboard more respectable, but that cant paper over the fact that for the most part, this was a step back for the Phoenix. Ok, a few lucky bounces in that third period comeback, especially for Koulikov and the Phoenix could have tied the game. The most worrying thing for me now, seems to be the trend where the Phoenix will pull off a great road win, only to scupper that by turning in a lackluster performance at home. I would absolutely trade road wins for home wins! That being said, the Phoenix are slowly returning to health, Tony Hand has had a few games now to see how the team plays, and hopefully to make improvements in game plan and tactics and once again, the Phoenix have a mixed weekend and yet, are still in touching distance of the top. I am thankful that this seasons EPL is so close and tough to call!

Attendance: Boosted by quite a few newbies I would guess around the 1,000 mark again!

Phoenix 3 Slough 5 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 3 Slough 5 - Sough Article
Phoenix 3 Slough 5 - CB Sport

Phoenix v Peterborough Phantoms 20th November Game Review

2011-11-25T20:18:00.001Z

I do apologise with the lateness of another match report, really must give my self a rocket up the proverbial and get them online in a more timely fashion! Anyway, the past weekend saw the Phoenix take on the Peterborough Phantoms in a away/home series. The Phoenix traveled down to Peterborough saturday night and took the lead, before the Phantoms took over. It looks like the Phoenix ran out of steam and the Phantoms ran out 3-1 winners. Another loss for the Phoenix and possibly the team hitting rock bottom?

Sunday night gave them the best chance to right that wrong and get back on track. Sunday's warm up also saw Jaroslav Spelda take to the ice, however he did not ice in the game. Still encouraging signs as it shows the Phoenix injury list is going to get smaller soon! The Phantoms always present a tough nut to crack, mainly because of the most aptly named goalkeeper in hockey, Stephen Wall. On a hot night he can be unbeatable, he gives the Phantoms a chance to win every game they play. A big, mobile, guy he fills the goal and can be a right pain! Sunday night would be a tough test for the Phoenix!

First Period: The Phoenix came out the blocks flying and really took the game to the Phantoms. The lines were, again, being mixed up due to absentee's and, with Tony on the bench it gave him a chance to see how the team plays. Maybe even see some of the frustrations we see in the stands. Anyway the Phoenix were testing Wall in goal and showed some desire and hunger. A much improved performance! The first goal came within the first 5mins with James Archer getting a deserved goal for all his efforts. His goal timed at 4min 40sec. The period continued well for the Phoenix and Slava (Dave) Koulikov netted another goal for the Phoenix at 16min 10sec. Slava is really beginning to up his point production now. The period ended 2-0 to the Phoenix.

Second Period: Could the good form last, or would the Jekyll and Hyde Phoenix return. Thankfully the good form of the first period continued in the second. Juraj Faith has performed very well being moved back into his more natural centre position, note to Sir Tony, why not spread the top line talent with Faith's improved performance in mind! Tom Duggan got a fair fe shifts at centre on the top line, with Faith rotating through lines 2 and 3 in the middle. Worked very well too! The Phoenix scored the next goal of the game when Faith found Cingel at 25min 40sec to make it 3-0 Phoenix. The period continued and the Phoenix continued to pressure the Phantoms, Tom Duggan made it 4-0 Phoenix with another goal to reward his constant good efforts on the ice. His fifth of the season coming at 36min 55sec.

Third Period: With the game at 4-0 the Phoenix eased off and looked to ride out the game and get the two points. The Phantoms threatened but never really tested Fone in goal. A few chances came the way of the Phoenix but Wall stood up to them and kept the Phoenix at bay. Only one goal came in the period and, sadly, it was to break a prospective shutout for Fone. Luke Ferrara was found in the hash marks and blasted the puck high into Fone's top left corner with around 4mins to go in the game.

Verdict: Great to get a win, great to see Spelda out on warm up but, even more important, a great performance from the Phoenix. The Phantoms have often proved to be a difficult opposition for the Phoenix and following on from the loss saturday night, heads could have been down. I must echo what, Nigel said on the podcast during the intervals, maybe the loss in Peterborough was rock bottom for the Phoenix. Maybe it forced them to think, this is not good enough, and forced them to re-focus and up their game. What ever happened, it worked! With that performance, and some bodies coming back from the injury table, thinks are looking a bit brighter for the Phoenix!

Attendance: A little lower than usual, maybe recent results had taken their toll, so i'll guess at around 1,000 in the Ice Dome.

Phoenix 4 Peterborough 1 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 4 Peterborough 1 - CB Sport

Phoenix v Telford Tigers 12th November Game Review

2011-11-20T11:06:00.002Z

In a week of un-usualness the next home game for the Phoenix saw the visit of the Telford Tigers to the Ice Dome. After the fallout from the Sheffield game thursday night, the main hope for the Phoenix faithful would be, a return to some form. While Telford had been struggling they, along with Sheffield, can be a difficult team to play. In fact earlier this season the Tigers had scored a win over the Phoenix in Shropshire after penalty shots.

Going into the game the Phoenix injury list had not gotten any shorter, with Spelda out, Stephen Wallace joined him on the sidelines finally scumming to a wrist injury which means he could be out of the lineup for up to 6 weeks! It never rains, it pours!

First Period: It was a very sombre mood at the Ice Dome saturday night, most Phoenix fan's still in shock from thursday nights fallout. For me, the important thing to come out of tonight's game would be the performance. The Phoenix had to show, and against a tough opponent like Telford, that they could pick themselves up and fight for a game. Thing's did not begin well, Stephen Wallace was ruled out of the game and for up to 6 weeks with a fractured wrist. Bloody great news that!! Anyway, the Phoenix hungry for the ice, and exploded in the first period. They looked fresh, quick and with the lines shuffled, due to injruy, quite creative! Those first 20 minutes saw 6 goals and the Phoenix race to a 4-2 lead. I'll just list the goals instead:

Phoenix, Cingel 4min 49sec
Phoenix, Harabin 6min 06sec
Phoenix, Archer 9min 08sec
Telford, Janak 13min 05sec
Telford, Soar 17min 08sec
Phoenix, Wood 19min 02sec

Highlight of the period was Ben Wood's goal at the 19min mark, from the point he took a wrist shot that went through at least 3 bodies and under Greg Blais in net. Just show's the value of putting a puck on the net to see what happens!

Second Period: The Phoenix blistering performance continued in the second and the Phoenix owned the twenty minutes that followed. The Period saw the Phoenix extend their lead to 8-2 and saw some goal light reward for two hard working, often unsung, Phoenix players. The first was Ciaran Long, who had worked hard all year with little reward finally getting a goal on home ice. Tom Duggan also picked up a goal, this just rewards for being the Phoenix MOM for a good few weeks now! Plus an honourable mention must go to Martin Cingel for completing a hattrick.

Phoenix, Long 23min 22sec
Phoenix, Cingel made by Koulikov 26min 34sec
Phoenix, Duggan 4 on 4 33min 55sec
Phoenix, Cingel hattrick 35min 48sec

Third Period: In true Tony Hand fasion the Phoenix eased up in the third period and, coupled with an injury, let the Tigers back into the game. With the lines rotating already, things were not helped when Tony Hand took a shot to the ankle which forced him out of the game. Up until this point, Faith/Cingel had been rotating onto lines with the younger Brits to spread the talent. After Tony's exit the lines were all over the place! Much of our creativity comes through him, so the last few minutes were a struggle! The Phoenix scored one more to make it 9 before Telford hit three un-answered goals in 8 minutes to make the score 9-5.

Phoenix, Harabin 43min 16sec
Telford, Henry 46min 23sec
Telford, Bruce 52min 46sec
Telford, Janak 54min 55sec

Verdict: For 50 minutes we got what we wanted, a performance from the Phoenix. I thought Blais in Telford's goal will admit he has had better games and had Declan Ryan been in goal from the start the scores may have been different! The injury to Wallce forced Tony to rotate the top line, and it was working nicely. It was good to see the likes of Long/Duggan playing with Faith. Losing Tony was a blow, and we did struggle a little after he left the ice. I can only hope he is not out for long.

I think most of the Phoenix faithful are getting fed up of our injuries. I think the Phoenix have only played half a game with a full roster! That first War of the Roses against Sheffield until Gomeniuk knee'd Ciaran Long. Since then we have had Long out, Archer, Ward, Harabin, Spelda, Wallace and Tony Hand out of action. In all my time of supporting hockey I've never know a roster so decimated by injury and a team going so deep into a season without ever icing a full roster!

Attendance: Saturday night's are not our usual home nights, and maybe the Sheffield performance deterred a few. Having said that, the crowd was swelled by a couple of hundred Scouts and a Field hockey team, so i'll guess around another 1-1,100 in the Ice Dome.

Phoenix 9 Telford 5 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 9 Telford 5 - Tigers Article
Phoenix 9 Telford 5 - CB Sport

With Spelda out, Wallace out and now Tony Hand missing from the lineup it's no surprise sunday's long trip down to Guildford was a disappointing one for the Phoenix!

Guildford 9 Phoenix 4 - Phoenix Article
Guildford 9 Phoenix 4 - Flames Article
Guildford 9 Phoenix 4 - CB Sport

Phoenix v Sheffield Steeldogs 10th November Game Review

2011-11-18T19:36:00.001Z

A rare midweek game for the Phoenix saw the visit of the Sheffield Steeldogs for another instalment of the cross Pennine battle. Andre Payette brought his Sheffield team to the Ice Dome riding high in the EPL table. He has forged a very tough team to beat, they work hard and grind out games, with their star player Janis Ozonlins getting much of the limelight. Of course any visit of the Steeldog's allows the Altrincham faithful to reacquaint themselves with messers Morgan/Geomeniuk/Wood and Payette! Always a pleasure!

Anyway Sheffield came into the game higher in the table and looking good to end their duck against the Phoenix in the EPL.

First Period: Off we go then, from the outset Sheffield brought their physicality and hard work to the ice, and the Phoenix struggled. While each team created chances the Phoenix were never able to set up in the Sheffield zone and put continued pressure on Ben Bowns in goal. Sheffield, on the other hand, were relying on their top line of Wood/Payette/Ozonlins to produce, as their most creative play came through them. As the period progressed and the Phoenix struggled the Steeldogs scored two quick goals to really take the initiative. The first came after 3 and a half minutes with Greg Wood returning to haunt the Phoenix. Less than a minute later, that man Ozonlins, popped up to extend their lead. Begrudgingly Sheffield deserved the lead so far.

Second Period: This period carried on where the first left off, with Sheffield continuing to frustrate the Phoenix, they had a plan and it was working. The Phoenix were able to haul themselves back into the game by scoring on a powerplay. I think the sun's must have aligned or something! Ladislav Harabin stepping up and scoring after 34min 27sec. A fight back on the cards? Sadly not, the mini-Payette Greg Wood struck again to restore Sheffield's two goal lead scoring at 35min 28sec. Sadly the hockey took a back seat in this period to the disgusting 'hit' by Payette on Luke Boothroyd. Im not going to rant on here, I said my piece below, on our forum and twitter and that's the last of it!

Third Period: With the scores at 3-1 and just twenty minutes left, I honestly didn't think the Phoenix had enough time to bring it back and, to be honest, I was still fuming after the events in the second. The period passed with the Phoenix tiring and the Steeldog's antics continuing. Only one goal came in the period, Ozonlins again scoring after 54min 25sec. As time ticket by it was clear Sheffield would finally get their win over the Phoenix at the 23rd time of asking.

Verdict: This was a poor performance from the Phoenix, we were outworked and looked tired and well off the pace. That's not to say Sheffield didn't play well, this defeat to Sheffield had been coming. Sheffield looked hungry and got their win....however! I can only say what I said on twitter after the game, Sheffield may have finally got their win against the Phoenix, but they deserve no praise/respect with the way they went about getting it. I have never seen a team play so dirty and dangerous in my time watching hockey. The clothes-line by Payette on Luke Boothroyd in the second period was disgusting and down right dangerous. He could seriously have inflicted major damage and it is by a sheer miracle that Luke's head was still screwed on. Greg Wood is fast becoming a mini Payette, which is a big shame, given he is a good player! That aside, the poor performance from the Phoenix and the lengthy injury list taking it's told, it's no surprise Sheffield managed, finally, to beat the Phoenix.

Attendance: Midweek games are always a tough sell, still, I would say around 1,000 fans came out for the game.

Phoenix 1 Sheffield 4 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 1 Sheffield 4 - Steeldogs Article
Phoenix 1 Sheffield 4 - CB Sport

Desert Dogs-a-Howlin - October

2011-11-05T10:48:00.004Z

The 2011/12 NHL season is finally a go-go! Except no one in the UK can see it on their telly boxes yet! Im sure most of you will roughly know the current wrangling over the NHL's European TV rights deal, so I wont go into it. I'll only say, I do not want to watch the NHL on my computer, I want to watch it on my TV. So, the NHL and ESPN America have until the end of the month to get the NHL on our screens or I shall join the growing list of people who have binned their subscription!

*update* since writing that opening sentance and posting this, Premier Sports have signed a deal to screen live and as-live NHL games in the UK. So, ESPN America has been cancelled and 'hello premier sports' *update*

@ SJ Sharks,The Coyotes opened their season with a trip across to sunny central California to meet the Sharks by the bay, not the easiest of starts, but the Coyotes had one 5 of their previous opening day games. This time would be different, the offseason has not been kind to the Coyotes and they went into the game without their goalkeeping star Bryzgalov. In his place Mike Smith signed from the Tampa Bay Lightning, unfortunately for him, and the Yotes, they had the worst of starts. The Sharks rolled over the Coyotes 6-2, with Smith coming in for a peppering facing 52 shots! Combine that with 3 PP goals for the Sharks you can kinda guess this was a result the Coyotes will be keen to leave behind!

@ Stars, The Coyotes continued their season openers with another road game, this time in the big state, Texas. Where everything is done bigger and better....apparently! The Coyotes headed for Dallas to face the Stars, a team who are struggling as much as the Coyotes are. Perhaps because of this the game was not a barn burner, just 6,306 fans attended the game and witnessed a tight game. The Coyotes were just 27seconds shy of recording their opening win before Eriksson netted to send the game into OT and Penalties. The Coyotes would be disappointed once again as the Stars won the shoot-out and the extra point. At least, for the Phoenix, that visit to Dallas yielded a point and got them off the mark.

@ Nashville, So next stop for the Coyotes road trip was the season opener in the Bridgestone Arena Tennesse. A tough game with a sell out crowd hyped up by an emotional pre-game video tribute to Lokomotiv Yaroslavl and to former Pred Wade Belak. The Predators may well have been too wrapped up in the video's as the Coyotes came out and hammered them in the first period. Launching to a 3-0 lead the Coyotes managed to silence the sell out crowd, a big achievement in itself! With LeBarbera in goal the Coyotes were able to keep out the Predators until over the halfway point, despite the s/o going the Coyotes shut down the Pred's and held on for a 5-2 victory. A good win for the Yotes against a talented Predator team, but for me, the stand out stat from the game is, 13 Coyotes players picking up points. The Coyotes do not have too many standout names, but with team production like that, they don't need to! I only hope the Yotes can keep up this kind of point production!

v Winnipeg, The father franchise of the Coyotes jetted into town to take on their transplanted offspring. There had been an exciting build up to this game, would the Jet's show that the NHL made a mistake re-locating them to Arizona? Or would the Yotes show their is life in the desert and life in the Yotes despite all the off ice troubles. A full Jobing.com arena greeted both teams, with a sizeable contingent of Jet's fans, the night would be noisy! Any hope the Jet's fans had of upsetting the Coyotes home opener were dispelled just 34sec into the contest. The Coyotes made the perfect start in silencing the Jet's fans and pumping their own up! Phoenix would control the game and run out 4-1 winners, with second year Oliver Ekman-Larsson having a great night with two goals. The other highlight was a great performance from Mike Smith, posting a 0.948 save percentage! On a night where a loss could have been spun so many ways, the Yotes came up big and put on an impressive performance. Hopefully some newbies in the sellout crowd were convinced to give the Desert Dog's another go!

v Chicago, Next up for the Yotes saw the Blackhawks come to town, this would be another tough test for the Coyotes as the Blackhawks bring a number of skilled players to the fight. The game began and both teams traded goals up until the end of the second period when the Blackhawks held a 3-2 lead. Going into the third the Coyotes performance on the PP sealed their fate in this game. Given two powerplay opportunities not only did they not score, they gave up a short handed goal. Those type of goals really get to me, so it is disappointing to see the Yotes fall victim. Being a Manchester Phoenix fan I know all about poor powerplay performances too! After the high of beating the Jet's this loss is so dissapointing, a good performance against a team like Chicago would have done the Coyotes confidence no end of good!

v Los Angeles, The Coyotes home stand ended with the visit of the LA King's, the Kings seem to be perennial under achievers, especially coming from the success hungry state of California! The Coyotes went into this game 1-1 during this home series and a good performance on home ice would be needed. Sadly that didn't come, and the Yotes were shut-out on home ice by a score of 2-0! For some reason, waking up to this score, im really disappointed with it, I think it's because, against the Blackhawks I didn't see the Yotes getting anything, but against the King's I felt good in hoping for a Yotes win. Reading the recap it sounds like it was a poor performance, not necessarily from Smith in goal, but the team in front. Iv'e got the game recorded so will have to make my mind up then. When the team are keen to improve crowds at the Jobing.com home games are important, and the Yotes are now 1 and 2 at home. That form has to improve, im sure it will, we are still in the early stages of the season!

@ Anaheim, The Yotes travelled to California for their first visit to Anaheim, a game against the Ducks offered the chance for Phoenix to forget about the home shutout versus the Kings. If anything, that game forced the Coyotes into a reaction. It looks like the Coyotes new attitude worked wonders as they forced Anaheim into 15 turnovers and a further 7 takeaways. With that sort of offence its clear to see how the Yotes managed to harry the Ducks into mistakes. The Ducks also pulled Hiller for Dan Ellis, another sign the Coyotes were doing something right! The biggest star of the night was Martin Hanzal, the defensive forward stepped up with a 4 point game with two goals and two assists. It's good to see the Coyotes spread the scoring too, with 4 scorers, including first goals for Yandle and Gordon.

v Dallas, The Stars came back to the Desert for the teams second meeting in a month, the Coyotes would try to get the win that they let slip in Dallas. With the last 6 meetings between them being decided by a goal it should come as no surprise this was another tight game. It was a tough game but the Yotes worked hard and a highlight of which was Shane Doan getting number 300! A fantastic milestone for any player in hockey, let alone the NHL! That goal also saw the Coyotes powerplay problems end, that marker being the first PP goal in 14 attempts! Being a Manchester Phoenix fan, I can understand a frustrating poerplay unit! Going into the last 90sec of the game, just like in Dallas, the Coyotes gave up the lead and the game ended 2-2. No further goals came in overtime and the extra point would be decided by everyone's favourite element of the game.....penalty shootouts! In the end it sounded like neither team wanted to score, 8 rounds.....thats right! It took 8 rounds of penalty shots before the Stars claimed the extra point! Im dissapointed with the loss, but at least the Yotes took a point from the game!

v Devils, After the heartache of another late slip against the Star's fresh in their minds the Coyotes needed to come up big against the Devils! Without Martin Brodeur the Devils luck in the desert was not on their side, without a win in Phoenix since 2003 and an all time record of 3-7-0 the omen's were good for the Yotes. They also got the first goal of the game giving them the early momentum, that goal coming from debutant Patrick O'Sullivan. Despite ending the first period 1-1 the Coyotes were well on top with 19 shots alone in the first session. With the scores tied the Coyotes went on to win period's 2 and 3 by a score of 2-1, giving the Yotes a 5-3 victory against a good New Jersey team. Ray Whitney got deserved recognition after the game thanks to a 3 point game. Despite Whitney entering the twilight of his career at the age of 39, he is having a fantastic scoring start to this season. Whitney and Doan currently lead the roster stats with 10 points each through the first 9 games of the season.

v Kings, After getting back to winning ways against the Devils the Coyotes entertained the Anaheim Ducks in the Jobing,com arena. The Coyotes penalty kill unti played a large part in this game, and helped the Yotes to a 3-2 overtime victory. The Coyotes penalty kill unit has now killed off 34 of the last 37 enemy powerplays, now running at 91.8%! Other big pluses for the Yotes was a big performance from Radim Vrbata who, re-united with Whitney and Hanzal, finished the game with two goals and one assist! Quite often over here in the EPL great goaltending gives you chances to win games. Just look at Stephen Wall for Peterborough and Ben Bown's for Sheffield. Both keepers who will shutout an opposition and win games if given the chance. Mike Smith, who has been much maligned since moving to the desert, put up great numbers and gave the Yotes a chance to win! His save % for the game coming out at 94.9%!

Coyotes ended the month 4-3-2

So that's it, the first Desert Dogs-a-Howlin blog post for The Angry Budgie. Let me know what you think, any changes I should make, anything I should/shouldn't talk about etc...! November's edition is already in the works!

Phoenix v Basingstoke Bison 30th October Game Review

2011-11-01T19:51:00.002Z

The Phoenix went into the weekend just gone with a freekishly halloweeny injury list! More specifically the Phoenix were down both import defencemen due to injuries! With Spelda gone to an ankle injury Ladislav Harabin took a shot to the face abd will be out for a few weeks with a facial injury! To help cover Phoenix drafted in former Slough defenceman John Connolly. So a patched up Phoenix headed into one of the toughest weekends of the season with a pair of games against the Bison.

Against all odd's, and with a standout performance from Steve Fone the Phoenix went in and came out with a 5-2 victory. A result that I defiantly did not predict! To be honest, with the injuries, i did not expect the Phoenix to get anything from the weekend!

Basingstoke 2 Phoenix 5 - CB Sport
Basingstoke 2 Phoenix 5 - Bison Report

With many fan's dressed in their finest halloween costumes the faithful re-united at the Ice Dome for the second game of the weekend series. Would the Phoenix injury ravaged roster start to tire, or would the backs against the wall mentality see them through? Would the Bison avenge saturday's loss? All valid questions and those in the Ice Dome would see answered!

First Period: According to some in the home support, a trait of recent Phoenix performances has been the lack of physical presence on the ice. That could not be said of the Phoenix in the first period. For the most part the depleted Phoenix defence coped well with the Bison, the Phoenix were hungry and pressed Colclough into action between the pipes. Around the 10min mark the Phoenix went on the powerplay, in what would become a theme of the game, this was not a good thing for the Phoenix! The Bison scored a short handed goal after 10min 16sec. While the Phoenix struggled to set up in the Bison zone, the Bison broke up the ice quickly and Joe Miller scored. Despite the goal the period continued and both teams battled intensely. As the buzzer......well the whistle, as the long suffering Phoenix scoreboard decided to stop honking, went the Phoenix went into the locker room just a goal down.

Second Period: The second carried on where the first left off really. both teams battling hard. The Bison began to up the physicality and without retribution from the Phoenix or the referee began to really disrupt the Phoenix play. The Phoenix powerplay continued to frustrate too, be it a combination of the Bison's disruptive play or the Phoenix lack of ideas, over the course of the game the Phoenix only ever set up on the powerplay for 20sec or so! Rubbish! Towards the end of the period the Phoenix would pick up a penalty that would, effectively, end the game! Down on the near corner Ryan Johnson and Joe Miller went into the boards, with Johnson the only one to skate out. Johnson was assessed a 5 plus match (later downgraded to game) penalty for accidental high sticks. The most ridiculous call in the history of the world! You can go and injure someone with intent and be assessed a lower penalty than an accidental high stick! The Phoenix, now down to 3 defenceman would have to kill off a 5 minute penalty! This would decide the course of the game!

Third Period: As the third began the Bison scored! Steve Moria, of all people, stepped up and scored the Bison's second goal just 34sec into the period. For many people, myself included that was it! It was tough seeing the Phoenix scoring one goal let alone three to win! The Phoenix battled on but the lack of defencemen began to take it's toll. The atmosphere fell flat and it was disappointing to see, im sure the Phoenix were not far off in this game, it just needed a spark, it needed one of our star's to work a bit of magic and everything would explode into life! Sadly this didn't happen and, on another powerplay, things got worse! After another woeful attempt at a PP, the Bison grabbed the puck and went up ice. James Neil rushing back to assist Foney, Stephen saved the shot but the rebound, went directly at Neil who watched helplessly as the puck rebounded off his leg into the open Phoenix net. 3-0 and an absolutely killer goal, scored at 51min 09sec. Game over im afraid!

Verdict: Not quite the apocalypse as some on the Phoenix forum are saying! But not a vintage Phoenix performance either! The result down in Basingstoke was a surprise, and it was obviously too much to expect another! The Phoenix worked hard, but with depleted defensive corps, and then loosing Ryan Johnson at the end of the second really hurt the Phoenix! Yes the Phoenix top line lacked a little spark, but the Phoenix were not far off the pace and could have won the game had a little luck fell to the Phoenix! Nevermind, the Phoenix got through another weekend with some points! While the team is hurting, it is good to see the point totally ticking over!

Attendance: Quite a few ghouls and zombies in the Ice Dome helping create a decent atmosphere, i'd say a crowd of 1,100 turned up.

Phoenix 0 Basingstoke 3 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 0 Basingstoke 3 - Bison Article
Phoenix 0 Basingstoke 3 - CB Sport

Phoenix v Bracknell Bees 23rd October Game Review

2011-10-26T20:39:00.002+01:00

Bracknell have come into this season pumped up, a new team, a new budget, and two of Guildford's most potent ever players. The Bees are a better team by far this year and can no longer be taken for granted. The major upgrade came in the form of Martin Masa and Lukas Smital who came to the Bees from the Flames. Two players who seem to go everywhere together, and two very good players. These two have the ability to win games on their own, they will help the Bees convert many more games into wins this year!

Saturday saw the Phoenix make the journey down the M6 and M5 to Swindon to take on another, much improved team. The Jet's took Bracknells dynamic duo Pinc and Cesky and hope they will do for them, what Masa/Smital will do for Bracknell! Despite taking the lead the Phoenix struggled in Swindon and lost the game 4-2. A disappointing result, even with their improvements the Phoenix still have enough skill to win!

Anyway, onto Sunday and the chance for the Phoenix to right those wrongs and avoid a weekend whitewash!

First Period: The Phoenix took to the ice without injured defenceman Jaroslav Spelda, in his absence his spot on the blue line has been filled by Ben Wood, slotting back into his usual D role. The home side got off to the best possible start when Juraj Faith continue his hot scoring streak netting after just 64seconds. The early delight of scoring would have the shine taken off a little when Bracknell leveled the scores on the 3 minute mark scoring through Thomson. With each side trying to settle down and into their rhythm as soon as possible the Phoenix continued to create the early chances. The Phoenix got the go ahead goal on 5min 52sec through Stephen Wallace who, like Faith, is enjoying a rich vein of form at the moment. The Phoenix second line has been our best performers over recent weeks, that fact underlined by another goal for that group. This time Koulikov got the goal after 16min 02sec, a shot from the far wing on goal, possibly deflecting in of a Bracknell player.

Second Period: Like the first period, the Phoenix got off to another flyer. Their fourth goal coming at 21min 43sec, and again it was Faith who scored early. This made the scores 4-1 and, in typical Phoenix style, this is where the team eased off! With the talent Bracknell have it should come as no surprise, dear reader, that they hauled themselves back into the game. Their second of the night came at 31min 06 on the powerplay through Peter Jasik. Then, just over 2 minutes later, the Bees were within a goal. Lukas Smital scored the Bees 3rd at 33min 17sec. This stirred the Phoenix back into life and the period finished 4-3 Phoenix.

Third Period: So a good first period, a sleepy second, what would happen in the third? Thankfully it looked like Tony's interval chat had an effect and the Phoenix came back out with purpose. They worked hard to contain the Bees and go in search of another goal. That goal would come, and to much delight, a reward for the hard working third line. Tom Duggan scoring the Phoenix 5th at 50min 33sec. With the scores 5-3 the Phoenix looked to close out the game and with the Bees tiring the game ended with a victory for the Phoenix.

Verdict: 40 minutes of good hockey out of 60 may be ok against teams like the Bees, but against the likes of the Jets/MK and Guildford that won't be enough. It was pleasing to see the overall performance tonight, the Phoenix had been in a little bit of a slump and this game showed the fight/desire is still there. I genuinely could not have picked a MOM there were a few candidates! The other main positive I can take out of the game was a reward, finally, for the third line. They work so hard every shift without, necessarily, getting any reward. Tom's goal will do them the world of good! What's also good to see is Faith's form continuing on an upward trend. Hopefully this will silence some of the doubters!

Attendance: Another solid crowd in the Dome, i'll say 1,200 in.

Phoenix 5 Bracknell 3 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 5 Bracknell 3 - Bracknell Article
Phoenix 5 Bracknell 3 - CB Sport

Phoenix v Slough Jets 16th October Game Review

2011-10-22T10:53:00.003+01:00

No saturday away game for the Phoenix last weekend so just the home game on sunday, this time the Jet's came to the Ice Dome for their first visit of the season. The only other meeting came on the opening weekend of the season when the Phoenix took a victory in the hangar down in Slough. Another tough game in store, especially as the Phoenix were icing without James Archer and Josh Ward, who sustained a broken jaw in the Panthers win in Hull saturday night!

First Period: Despite having a shorter bench the Phoenix began brightly and were able to close down the Slough offence well. After creating a number of chances the Phoenix finally go the breakthrough after 7min 27sec. Tom Duggan moved to the crease and began battle to screen Rockman in net, James Neil sensing an opportunity stepped off the blue line and sent a wrister on goal which found the net. Things got better for the Phoenix when Juraj Faith scored a powerplay goal after 11min 36sec, the Phoenix were looking good! But, as often happens when the Phoenix jump to an early lead, they eased off! This let Slough right back in the game, at 14min 25 Darius Pliskauskas got the first goal back for the Jets, and under a minute later the scores were tied. The goal coming at 15min 20sec. The buzzer went and the Phoenix faithful were a little shell shocked. A brilliant opening 12 minutes were undermined by the last 8!

Second Period: The second period saw no goals but both sides traded chances. with the play looking a little more even between the sides. Fone and Rockman in nets were being kept busy, but the sharpness in front of goal was just not there and neither team could make the breakthrough.

Third Period: Slough would score first in the third, with Pliskauskas stepping up to score at 43min 01sec. He is a real class import, and a fantastic find by the Raiders way back when! With the clock ticking on the Phoenix had to press for a goal and, ironically, it would come on the penalty kill. Koulikov getting a deserved goal at 45min 17sec. With the teams evenly matched and neither wanting to risk losing a point the game ended with no further goals and went into OT. Importantly the Phoenix did take a penalty with around 30sec left with Faith heading to the box.

Overtime: That penalty left the Phoenix with 3 skaters against Slough's 4. from the first puck drop the Jet's set up camp in the Phoenix zone and began moving the puck around. Dan Davies on the back post missed an absolute sitter, but as we were to find that was just a sighter! Just 50sec into overtime the Jet's moved the puck around quickly and Davies was again found on the back post clear, and this time he made no mistake! the Jet's winning 4-3 after OT.

Verdict: A tough loss to take, given the Phoenix began so brightly! But, as ive said in previous post's, if the Phoenix are to lose id prefer to take a point! That point keeps the Phoenix joint top of the league. A loss of focus and, possibly, the short bench caught up with the lads sunday night. With Spelda having surgery on his ankle, the Phoenix head into this weekends games with 3 players possibly sitting out. I can only hope James Archer is back fit, otherwise it could be a tough weekend! A final note, Ryan Watt, I know his type of role is an agitator, but he was a disgrace in that game. Then to add further insult he was given the MOM. there were boo's from the Phoenix faithful but I cannot condone what Watt did. While skating over to accept his MOM he proceeded to mock the home crowd, the only purpose of which was to incite the home crowd. A real shame!

Attendance: A good crowd for a saturday night game, i'll guess between 1-1,100 in the Ice Dome

Phoenix 3 Sough 4 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 3 Slough 4 - Slough Article
Phoenix 3 Slough 4 - CB Sport

The New Season is Upon us! Version 2.2.2011

2011-10-18T09:36:00.002+01:00

A bit late but here we go with the second part of my roster review, you have seen the defencive line already in version 2.1.2011 here I present the forward line that will be tasked with firing the Phoenix to more silverware success.

The Forwards

Number 2 James Archer
James came to the Phoenix and iced most of the year on the second line, he added some bulk and strength to that line and would often be found doing the dirty work. He is a tough cookie and enjoyed a pretty good season for the Phoenix, collecting 44 points and really contributing the strength in depth that helped the Phoenix lift the EPL trophy. Over the summer Archer's name was on many re-sign list's, mine included. He is one of the top Brit's in the league and is a player you need to hold on to. There was much delight when his signature was announced, and his status has been confirmed with Tony Hand handing the A to James for this season. A worthy recipient in my eyes, James will stick up for his teammates and is not afraid to mix it if needed!

Number 9 Tony Hand
What on earth do I say here? After the Phoenix debut EPL season, when Tony scored 120 points, few could imagine how he could top it. During 2010/11 he only went and did it! 133 points and a league title! Plus, in only 2 league games (so far this season at the time of writing) he already has 6 points! The staggering fact's are, that over the first two season in the EPL Tony Hand has only scored 50 goals, compared to a massive 203 assists! Never has the song 'He shot, he missed he wanted an assist Tony Hand, Tony Hand' been so appropriate! The man is a living legend of UK hockey who only seems to be getting better with age. He continues to frustrate and amaze the Phoenix faithful, not to mention opposition fan's, and along with Steve Moria at the Bison he continues to prove that age is no barrier in hockey! It must be said, over the summer there were many 'Hand to Fife' rumours, despite my insistence that he already had a contract for the Phoenix, many dismissed that and said he was gone. Imagine my delight and the size of my grin when it was announced a new contract for Tony keeping him at the Phoenix until at least 2015! Long may the legend stay!

Number 14 Stephen Wallace
Still my favorite player at the Phoenix, Wallace had his second best year during the Phoenix title run amassing 50 points, very nearly a point a game. Wallace plays the game with skill and flair and will often magic the puck out of a tight spot or past opposing defensemen. The only aspect of his game which needed work was his physicality. While an excellent stick handler, Stephen could be muscled off the puck, after the two games iv'e seen of him so far this season, he has been working very hard on that side of his game over the summer! Along with James Archer, Wally was next on my list of players to re-sign!

Number 19 Tom Duggan
Duggy, the young Brit who plays the game hard! Duggan has been an instant hit at the Phoenix, playing the game with absolute commitment and often, without a regard for his own safety! Tom plays a vital role on the Phoenix third line, and helps give the Phoenix that extra strength in depth. Tom brings so much to the ice and one quality I think that goes un-noticed is his ability to hound and rush an opponent into a mistake. Tom will be the guy who fore-check's up the ice, he is usually the first player an opposing rushing player will encounter as they push forward. He has a great hockey mind and knows his place on the ice. A fan favorite, and a player respected by his teammates!

Number 29 Martin Cingel
This was one of the bigger signings of the summer, and one which much intrigue! Cingel and Hand would be re-united once more in the EPL, there was a fair bit of shock up in Edinburgh when Cingel left and many questioning why. For me, this was a no brainer win win for the Phoenix. Cingel brings a wealth of experience to the ice, and his quality is proven. Let's face it, if you can score at nearly a point per game in the EIHL on a weak Edinburgh roster, imagine what he can do in the EPL on a line with Tony Hand! Early signs are good, two games down and 6 points already for the Slovakian. While he may not be as in-your-face as Kristoffersson, he is still a sniper and a strong player who wont get bullied from the puck. With the relationship with Hand restored, he is a player who I hope will ice for the Phoenix for a few seasons to come!

Number 71 Josh Ward
Another of the Nottingham youth system to come and ice for the Phoenix. Following in the footsteps of Robert Lachowicz and James Neil, Josh comes to the Phoenix for a full season of hockey. If Robert and James' quality is anything to go by, Josh should be another gem. I will admit to knowing little about Josh, but from the first two games so far, I am impressed. He works hard, is comfortable on the puck and seems to have slotted into the Phoenix locker room well. Certainly if his tweet's are anything to go by! Josh began his season early, along with Ciaran Long, by icing a couple of times for the Trafford Metros in the ENL. Those games being quite rewarding for Josh, scoring two goals and three assists. If he has a good season I hope he stays, but I could see the Panther's come a calling!

Number 74 Slava Koulikov
Is he import quality or not? That seems to have been the main debating point since Slava's signing was announced! Since the Phoenix arrival into the EPL Slava has always been a player I liked to watch. He reminds me of Stephen Wallce, has has great skill and stick handling ability, and despite not being an import, I will always consider him a 'bonus import'. Good engough to play on any EPL squad I was so happy when his arrival at the Phoenix was announced. He really has helped to up-grade the Phoenix second line. With Archer and Wallace, the second line is a real big threat now. In fact it feels like that line has been leading the Phoenix so far this season! Welcome to Manchester Slava, or Danny as some Phoenix players seem to have dubbed him!?!?!

Number 89 Ciaran Long
Signed from the Basingstoke Bison Ciaran will add some physicality to the Phoenix third line, don't worry Mr Russell unlike previous years, the Phoenix are consistently rolling with three lines! As with Josh Ward, Ciaran began his season with the Trafford Metros and in impressive style! Five goals and two assists in just two games, sadly he picked up an injury in the first game away to the Steeldogs and has not yet iced in this EPL season. Fingers crossed he will be back into the lineup for this weekends games.

Number 91 Juraj Faith
Youreye Faieeth or something like that! Like Ladislav Spelda, Faith is an unknown quantity this year, with over 400 games in the top Slovak league and a season in the DEL Juraj has the experience, and his season by season production shows he has the skill. In reality he will have a good year, just by being on the same line as Tony Hand he will score goals. Common opinion of the Phoenix faithful is that, Faith has yet to really get going. At the moment he looks to be shaking off a little rust, but early indications are encouraging. Id' want my imports to be scoring at least a point per game, ideally towards two points per game would be ideal. So 3 points from 2 games is a good start, hopefully once he is fully settled and up to speed in the EPL we will see that point production head north!

Them's be the forwards, while no one has yet stood out, this years Phoenix looks to be much stronger across the roster. It certainly gives me some confidence going into the EPL season ahead!

The New Season is Upon us! Version 2.1.2011

2011-10-15T12:49:00.004+01:00

Following on from my new season post last year, version1.2010 may I present version 2.2011 Championship Edition! This summer has been one to enjoy if you were a Phoenix fan. Despite the blip experienced in Coventry the Phoenix ended the 2010/11 season as EPL champions. A league championship that has been a long time coming to Manchester. I believe the last league championship was brought to the city by the Manchester Storm in 1999. So it's only taken 12 years, one bankruptcy, two mothballed seasons but we have a new shiny league trophy to show for it!

Coventry weekend was a little bittersweet for many a Phoenix fan, the elation and pride that came with winning a league title was dampened somewhat by the team not quite showing up 100% in the game against MKL. Credit to MKL though, they had a game plan, stuck to it and shut the Phoenix potent offence down. Still, we had a right royal time in the Phoenix blocks. Largest fan base there, a whole end of the SkyDome filled and one massive banner to show off, good times! There was even the seeds of an unholy alliance formed with the Guildford fans next door! I was disappointed to loos to MKL but, I had a great time in Coventry, finally managed to meet up with Anthony (off of Banners on the Wall fame) and form a new hockey friendship!

So the league finished, Coventry happened and everyone left the midlands and went there separate ways for the summer. Holiday's were had, forums went into their scheduled rumor overdrive and now, well into September, hockey gear is being dusted off and rituals prepared.

Oh it's hockey time alright!

After the normal roster explosion the summer is spent rebuilding that which went before. This summer for Tony was even tougher, how do you improve a championship roster with the same budget as last year? With difficulty, Kristoffersson/Huppe departed for pastures new, Gomeniuk/Morgan and G Wood departed for their spiritual home in Sheffield and Adam Summerfield departed for a career with the RAF. The Phoenix did manage to retain a core group of players and have brought in some quality experienced new faces. With the roster finalised im going to split the squad preview in two, today we have the Goaltending and Defence, then the forwards will follow!

The Goaltending

Number 31 Stephen Fone
BT returns for his third year between the pipes for the Manchester Phoenix, last season he backstopped the club to the EPL title. I always thought if BT had an injury free year he could be immense for the Phoenix. Thankfully 2010/11 proved to be that year, not the most conventional of goalkeepers Steve Fone continued his improvement. He is a quick goalie round the crease and is flexible enough to pull out some show reel saves. His stats alone show how far he has come, over the two full seasons he has had in Altrincham his GAA has come down from 3.67 to 2.75 and his save % increased from .882 to .906. Granted the defence/team in front improved but he has also. Going with an import net minder carries to many negatives for me, so a brit between the pipes is a must. A quality Brit goalie is hard to find, so I am very happy BT is back for another year.

Number 35 Jorge El-Hage
A product of the Phoenix youth setup Jorge fills the void created by Adam Summerfield's departure to the RAF. Many thanks must be given to Summerfield, he had reached a point in his development where he had to be making regular starts, rather than warming the bench. This was unlikely at the Phoenix, that in addition to his career calling, meant he had to leave. Im right in saying all Phoenix fan's wish him the best! So Jorge comes in to fill the back up position, i'll admit here and now, I know nothing about him! However, if Tony has enough faith to promote him and have him as backup he must be good! He will learn alot training with the EPL side and learning from BT, it will be interesting to see if he is trusted with minutes this season!

The Defence

Number 4 Luke Boothroyd
Another season back for Luke Boothroyd, another season carrying the captaincy I would have thought! Luke is Mr Dependable, Mr Manchester, you could argue he is one of the first names on the match sheet every time. His point production dropped last season and he didn't register a goal. Now I want my defencemen to be just that...defencemen first and foremost, so I wouldn't expect Luke to be lighting up the scoring charts. But I would like him to offer up some more points next season. That is probably the only area of his game he needs to improve, he is a good captain, he is a brilliant defenceman. He reads the play well, can deliver a great check and despite his size, is one tough cookie!

Number 10 Ryan Johnson
This was a surprising signing for some, Ryan Johnson is no stranger to the Phoenix. I do wonder if, sticking to the same budget, has brought about Ryan's arrival to the Phoenix. But I am not going to complain, Ryan is a big strong fellow who isn't afraid to get rough. Last season he split his time between the Steeldogs and Steelers and managed a 20 point haul from his 54 games. A decent return for a second/third line defenceman. He will add size to the Phoenix blue line, while not the tallest, anyone who has seen him up close will agree, he is built like the proverbial! Another aspect to his game, Ryan can play forward which, like the next two players in this list could give the Phoenix a fourth forward line! Though pig's may fly before the Phoenix run with 4 lines! Another plus side will be the continuation of the 'Ryan Johnson plays for Phoenix, he has a porno tash' ditty!

Number 12 - James Neil
The second in the Phoenix triumvirate of utility players, James Neil has worked his way backwards onto the Phoenix blue line after beginning his career in Altrincham as a center. James is a quick player who has adapted to life on the blue line well. For me, James is a little small and needs to bulk up, but otherwise, like Luke Boothroyd, James is another guy who is becoming a fixture at the Phoenix. For 2011/12 i'd like to see James up his point production please!

Number 15 - Ben Wood
The big man from Macclesfield returns for his fourth year on the Phoenix blue li....err wait! Ben Wood practically invented the utility role at the Phoenix. Played as a forward early on, Ben is most comfortable on defence. He had another frustrating season last year, and it all comes down to Tony's trust in him. In my opinion Ben has the skill to be played, he makes mistakes on the odd occasion, but so do all players. In fact when he had a good run of ice time his play improved considerably. My hope for this new season is, Tony has faith and plays the guy! He is good enough!

Number 44 Ladislav Harabin
Defenceman of the year for many, Harabin played a blinder during his debut EPL season. Part man, part machine, the guy just wouldn't be held down. Most fans across the league will remember his horrible injury sustained one faitful night in Slough, us Phoenix fans will remember reports of his determination to carry on playing in that game, then his hard work to get back on the ice as soon as possible. After the 2010/11 season, a career year for Ladislav, most of the Phoenix faithful were resigned to loosing him. But he surprised us all be re-signing for the Phoenix. Possibly the signing of the summer! Good friend Gomeniuk gone, Harabin will look to his fellow import D man, Spelda, to shoulder much of the Phoenix D responsibility. With a full, healthy, season I see Harabin having another career year and becoming a Phoenix icon!

Number 26 Jaroslav Spelda
The un-known quantity on this seasons defensive corps is the 36 year old from the Czech Republic. Standing at 6ft Spelda is slightly bigger than Harabin and with over 530 games in the top leagues in Slovakia and the Czech Republic, Jaroslav has the pedigree to be just as good as the Phoenix number 44. I can't comment much more on Jaroslav until iv'e seen him on the ice, but safe to say, im excited!

Who wants to look at some forwards?

Phoenix v Peterborough Phantoms 8th September Game Review

2011-10-10T20:05:00.003+01:00

With the Phoenix playing Telford in Shropshire on sunday, the usual home game of the weekend was bumped forward to saturday. I know it's not a major thing, but it does feel weird going to hockey on a saturday in Altrincham. Usually ends up with a confusing Sunday! Anyway, the first saturday home game of the season saw the visit of the struggling Phantoms. Im sure you will be aware but, just before the season began the Phantoms lost two players, one to the Steelers, and the other to a season long injury. That hurts teams at the best of times, but right before the first puck drop? That's devastating! The Phantoms have struggled so far this season, but Wall in net gives the Phantoms a chance, and it would be typical that the Phantoms get their A game together for the first time against the Phoenix!

The faithful filled the Ice Dome and, competing with Saturday night telly, we go under way!

First Period: It's not often the home team bench is more crowded than the away bench! Saturday night was one of those few times, the Phantoms starting the game with 11 skaters and two goalies. The Phoenix began brightly and controlled much of the play and chances. As usual, however, they came up against a superb Stephen Wall. Who must be, along with Ben Bowns, one of the top two or three goalies in the EPL. The Phoenix were playing ok, but not into gear fully, and Peterborough found a way to disrupt the Phoenix and not allow them too many clear chances on goal. The Phantoms cause was not helped when Glowa was ejected from the game with a 5 plus game for accidental highsticks on Slava Koulikov. 'Accidental High Sticks' has to be one of the silliest calls in hockey! An accidental penalty gets you thrown out the game, when deliberate attempts to injure (such as roughing, checking to the head etc...) will often only yield a minor penalty. Anyway, that's an argument for another day! The period ended with frustration in the Phoenix rank's and a wonder if this was going to be the Phoenix day!

Second Period: The second period began in the same vein as the first, the Phoenix with much of the play and Peterborough continuing to frustrate with their small bench. The Phoenix goal machine did finally get into gear and Martin Cingel got them off the mark after 22min 13sec. With Peterborough rolling just two lines the Phoenix pressed hard but could not find their way through, some shouts of frustrating beginning to be heard from the stands. Nerves were eased a little when Harabin got a deserving goal at 33min 52sec. As an aside, Harabin really has stepped up his game this season, he brings quite a bit of offensive skill to the ice along with his physicality in defence.

Third Period: With the short bench beginning to tell the Phantoms were dealt another blow when Rick Skene laid down and took a Spelda wrist shot to the helmet. All play stopped and both team doctors attended to Skene on the ice. Thankfully Skene took to his feet and was able to skate from the ice, with a fair bit of blood pouring from his head. Thankfully his helmet did its job and he should be ok! The Phoenix train really began to get going and they made it 3-0 when Faith scored after 50min 15sec. The referee had been doing his best to help Peterborough, I lost count the number of powerplays they had! It was on one of these powerplays when Faith was found up ice, skated in on Wall and fired an excellent shot past him into the net, timed 55min 44sec. With the Phantoms all but finished Spelda would add one final goal to make the scores a more realistic 5-0 at 58min 44sec.

Verdict: The Phoenix have yet to hit top gear and really gel as a team. Having said that they are still finding ways to pick up the points. This was not the prettiest of games or performances, but it was a good win in the end. Fone picking up a deserved shut out as well. Peterborough, while short benched, did not disgrace themselves, they worked hard and, unless you looked at the bench, you wouldn't have known they were so short of players.

Attendance: Slightly down, as saturday games usually are! I would guess at between 1 to 1,100 in the Ice Dome

Phoenix 5 Peterborough 0 - Phoenix Article

After the home win, it was Telford away for the Phoenix on sunday. Never an easy team to go and play. The game was tight for the most part with the score held at 1-1 all the way through open play. Then it was down to the lottery of penalties, this time, and after numerous attempts, Telford beat the Phoenix. While disappointed at loosing, it is still early season and the Phoenix are still getting better. So I will take 3 points from a weekend if offered! It's picking up as many points from a loss that can be key to winning trophies!

Telford 2 Phoenix 1 APS - Phoenix Article
Telford 2 Phoenix 1 APS - Telford Article
Telford 2 Phoenix 1 APS - CB Sport

Phoenix v Swindon Wildcats 2nd October Game Review

2011-10-05T19:33:00.002+01:00

Another weekend gone, another pair of games in the relentless EPL season ticked off! The Phoenix went into the weekend joint top with the Sheffield Steeldog's, who's start to the season is surprising alot of people! After the War of the Roses clashes I can see the Steeldog's doing well this year! They won't challenge for the title, but they will give every team a hard time in Sheffield! The Phoenix had a tough away game to Milton Keynes saturday night before entertaining the Swindon Wildcats sunday in Altrincham. Sadly the Phoenix struggled in MK loosing 5-2, still no shame in loosing to the Lightning in MK, they are a damn good side!

Sunday saw the Wildcats and their fans make the journey north up the M5 and M6 to Altrincham, Swindon are a much improved side, retaining Jonas Hoog was a coup for Aldridge and now, with the ex-Bracknell pair of Cesky and Pinc, and ex Jets coach Peter Russel on board the Wildcats are no pushovers!

First Period: After reports of the Phoenix being outmuscled in MK the Phoenix had to stamp their authority on the game. They did so and were able to restrict Swindon to a handful of early chances. Meanwhile Murdy in the Cats goal was 'doing a Bowns' turning away the Phoenix numerous attempts on goal. At times when the Phoenix got past Murdy Swindon were saved by the pipework. One particular chance fell to Faith who lasered a wrister high past Murdy only for the puck to hit the underside of the cross bar, bounce down, then out of the blue paint. The boisterous crowd in the Dome so close to celebrating a goal, and yet by the end of the first 20mins, none showed where it counts, on the scoreboard.

Second Period: Continued much like the first, with the Phoenix dominating the play and the few chances falling to the Wildcats being dealt with by Steve Fone, who was on another blinder of a performance! The Phoenix would break the deadlock in the second period when, Harabin went on one of his mazy forays up ice to combine with Mr Hand to find Martin Cingel on the back post, and with an authoritative whack, sent the Phoenix into the lead. That goal coming after 22min 57sec. The Phoenix doubled their lead on the powerplay just over two minutes later. The Phoenix moved the puck around the Swindon zone creating plenty of traffic in front of Murdy, as the puck cycled to Spelda on the blue line he unleashed a boomer of a slapshot which flew into the net. What a shot! One for the highlight reel certainly! The Phoenix made it 3-0 when Cingel got his second of the game at 28min 18sec on the powerplay. Swindon were struggling but they made sure the Phoenix were not going into the final period in a comfortable position. They broke Fone's shutout at 38min 40sec when Richardson scored their first of the game.

Third Period: Swindon really ramped up the pressure and tension in the third period when they scored 3 minutes into the period when Jan Melichar scored their second, to make the scores 3-2 Phoenix. The third period continued with both sides creating chances, the Phoenix still with the better of the play. Steve Fone outstanding in goal to keep the Cats out. Swindon called a timeout in the remaining few minutes and pulled Murdy for the last 60sec. The Phoenix were able to keep a high forecheck which limited Swindon's time in the Phoenix zone, and with less than 10sec left the puck broke to Spelda who sent the puck up ice, only to miss the goal by a fraction. Confusion follows as the buzzer sounds, and everyone prepares to leave. Only for 3 seconds to be put back on the clock as the puck was iced. Cue massive anti-climax as the puck was dropped and the 3 seconds wasted.

Verdict: So no 4 point weekend, but a home win secured for the Phoenix against an improved Swindon Wildcats. The Phoenix performances are slowly improving and the imports are beginning to find their feet. Harabin and Fone have continued their great start to the season, and Faith is gaining confidence in this league. Spelda, has truly announced his arrival with his booming slapshot! I was very happy with how the Phoenix managed to dominate the Cats for the majority of the game. Swindon, while they have improved, look to rely on their first line too much. I think most EPL sides will find them a tougher nut to crack, but if you shut that top line down, their is little else Swindon can hurt you with, famous last words eh?

Attendance: A decent crowd in the Dome, maybe a little less than against Basingstoke the week before, so i'll guess at around 1,100 in the Dome!

Phoenix 3 Swindon 2 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 3 Swindon 2 - CB Sport
Phoenix 3 Swindon 2 - Swindon Article

Phoenix v Basingstoke Bison 25th September Game Review

2011-09-27T20:16:00.002+01:00

That's it then, the EPL season has begun! A tough opening for the Phoenix with an away trip to the hangar in Slough before facing a much improved Bison team in Altrincham sunday night. The Phoenix set off for the south on saturday for the first league game against the Jet's, and what an opener with the Phoenix taking it 5-3. In fact the Phoenix were 4-0 up after the first period, but then lifted off the gas to allow the Jet's slowly back into the game. Going into the last 10 minutes the Jets were within one goal before Faith scored the empty netter and bag the points with the win.

So, one game, two points, with the Bison in Altrincham could the Phoenix make it a four point weekend. Going into the Ice Dome I was positive, not confident mind, as the Bison had a fantastic pre-season with a pair of wins over the Flames. This would be a tougher game than against the Steeldogs!

First Period: The Bison began strong, working hard and bringing a very physical game to the ice. Moria had devised a game plan and the Bison were executing it perfectly. The Bison had the early edge but the Phoenix were not silenced and could well have been 4 or 5 goals up were it not for Matt Colclough in goal. Even so the Phoenix were looking shaky in defence, and it would be defensive mistakes that would cost them badly. The first goal came for the Bison when the Phoenix lost possession in the Bison zone, only to be caught on the break and Heron scoring after 6min 51sec. The Phoenix hit back and brought themselves level when Martin Cingel scored after 14min 42sec. That joy was short lived as the Bison scored again just 22sec later. Ex Phoenix Joe Miller picked up a clearance by Fone and with Steve backtracking into his net deaked the puck easily round Fone to slot into an empty net. Another defense fail followed while the Phoenix were on the powerplay, the Phoenix gave up a shorthanded goal to Marek Dubec with less than two minutes to go, the goal coming at 18min 23sec. First period, 3-1 to the Bison was possibly a little harsh, other than the defensive fails that lead to the Bison goals, the Phoenix were not outdone after the first 20minutes.

Second Period: The Phoenix made the best possible start when Wallace scored just 45sec into the period, reducing the deficit to 1 goal. The Phoenix looked a little sharper in this period, the defence was working hard and the Phoenix continued to put pressure on Colclough in the Bison net. The Phoenix managed to level the game towards the end of the second period when, Wallace, again stepped up and scored, that goal timed at 37min 03sec. A few more smiling faces in the stands as the buzzer sounded!

Third Period: Those positive vibes would be tested once more when Miller came back to haunt the Phoenix once more, putting the Bison ahead at 42min 07sec. As the Bison continued their game plan it was looking tough for the Phoenix. Even though they had hauled themselves back into the game before it was not given they would do it again. The Phoenix would manage it once more, on the powerplay no less! The PP has not started well this season, but that's an argument for another day! With the man advantage Cingel scored the game leveling goal at 43min 57sec and the Dome erupted. The period ended and the game went to OT. A good result for both sides as they both deserved at least a point from the game!

Overtime: Well it was a short lived OT session! After the opening faceoff the Phoenix pushed the puck into the Bison zone and managed to get a face off. Mr Hand and Mr Moria greeted each other at the faceoff, combined age.....(insert your own joke here) what followed was joy for the Phoenix but gutting for Colclough. As the puck dropped Moria and Hand clashed, the result of which saw the puck bobble at speed towards the goal and through Matt's legs giving the win to the Phoenix. Now I am delighted the Phoenix won, but I did feel gutted for Colclough, he had been stellar in goal, it was a freakish goal really. One he cannot let get him down! He is a fine keeper!

Verdict: A tough game for the Phoenix as they faced a much sterner examination than against the Steeldogs. The Bison brought skill, physicality and a game plan to Altrincham. I am just chuffed the Phoenix were still able to soak it up and grind out the win....with a little luck and fortune it must be said! For any Bison fan reading, you have a good looking team! One I think will challenge for the EPL title, if not the league you will win something this year! This game was another great entry into the Bison/Phoenix rivalry, a rivaly which is based on great hockey! As for the Phoenix, the signs are good. Not at their best and yet a four point weekend was still secured. Possibly the biggest positive so far has been our secondary scoring, so far our second and third lines have shone. Once the first line gets going we will have a formidable offence on our books!

Attendance: A good crowd in the Dome making lots of noise as usual, i'd guess at around 1,100 to 1,200 in the Dome.

Phoenix 5 Bison 4 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 5 Bison 4 - CB Sport
Phoenix 5 Bison 4 - Bison Article

Phoenix Coyotes 2011 Fixtures

2011-09-20T20:09:00.002+01:00

As the NHL regular season is 82 games long I have decided to split this post in two! Today's post is the Coyotes fixture list for 2011. The Coyotes open their 2011/12 account with three games on the road before returning to the desert for a three game stand, starting with the return of the Winnepeg Jets, the spiritual father's of the Coyotes. That could well be a game not to miss! Not surprisingly it is scheduled to be broadcast on CBC!

October
8th @ Sharks
10th @ Stars
13th @ Predators
15th V Jets
18th V Blackhawks
20th V Kings
23rd @ Ducks
25th V Stars
27th V Devils
29th V Kings

November
2nd @ Avalanche
3rd V Predators
5th V Oilers
10th V Canadiens
12th @ Sharks
15th @ Maple Leafs
17th @ Flyers
19th @ Sabres
21st @ Capitals
23rd V Ducks
25th V Canucks
26th V Stars
29th @ Blackhawks

December
1st @ Jets
3rd V Flyers
5th @ Blackhawks
6th @ Predators
8th @ Red Wings
10th V Wild
14th @ Ducks
15th V Oilers
17th V Rangers
20th @ Panthers
21st @ Hurricanes
23rd V Blues
26th @ Kings
28th V Bruins
29th @ Avalanche
31st @ Wild

That's the 2011 list, next up, the 2012 list and the road to the postseason.

Phoenix v Sheffield Steeldogs18th September Game Review - War of the Roses

2011-09-19T18:21:00.003+01:00

The morning after the night before! The hockey season has well and truly begun! As is customary the Phoenix took on the Sheffield Steeldogs for the 'War of the Roses Cup' the now annual cross Pennine competition. This year would be different though, the Steeldogs have added a number of ex Phoenix players and have had a more extensive pre-season than the Phoenix. The team from Ice Sheffield had enjoyed games against Hull and the Steelers in addition to a hard training regime. The Phoenix had only been together a couple of days prior to leg one in Sheffield, so going into that game I would have been happy with a tied result or maybe a one or two goal deficit. Despite their head start I still thought the Phoenix would have enough quality over 6 periods to win.

So the usual crowd headed across to Sheffield to watch an entertaining game, filled with the usual physicality and controversy. After leaping to a 3-0 lead the Phoenix were able to fight back and took a 4-4 tie at the end of the first leg. This included an injury to Ciaran Long, and a bad slash to Harabin's arm. The incident with Long was the result of a knee from Gomeniuk which saw him assessed with a match penalty.

Sheffield 4 - 4 Phoenix - Phoenix View
Sheffield 4 - 4 Phoenix - Sheffield View

In the fading summer sun a bumper crowd packed out the Ice Dome sunday night ready to welcome the Phoenix onto home ice for the first time this season. Inside old acquaintances were renewed and old seats dusted off, everyone settled in for a cracking nights hockey.

First Period: With their extra on ice practice the Steeldogs started quickly and impressively, moving the puck quickly and giving the Phoenix a few defensive headaches! Ozonlins looking as good as before, Payette being his usual self and Morgan solid in defence. Greg Wood, captain of the Steeldogs, has seemingly morphed into a Payette Jnr unfortunately. Such a shame to see his talent wasted in such a way! The Phoenix looked ok to begin with, passes just missing to begin with and looked a little sloppy in defence, but as time went on both improved. Everyone forced to work hard, the new imports showing glimpses of their class. Bown's in goal was doing his usual one man wall impression, this season will, surely, be his last in the EPL! Fone was also in good form and both teams fought hard but were unable to score.

Second Period: The second continued where the first left off, except this time, the Phoenix were beginning to gel. The passes were sharper and the understanding on defence was getting there. After four minutes the duck was broken and it was the Phoenix who took the lead, after 24min 52sec. Koulikov, who could become my favourite player this season, took the puck up the right wing, turned in and riffled a lovely wrist shot past Ben Bowns and light the goal light. Sheffield called an immediate timeout, and Payette was seen absolutely laying into his Steeldogs players. Now I feel I must stand up for the Steeldogs players at this time. I can understand calling the time out as, the last 10mins of the first period and so far in the second it was clear the Phoenix were taking control. But that was no fault of the Steeldogs, it was just the Phoenix getting better and gelling! So I thought Payette's actions were a little un-called for! The Phoenix doubled their lead 4 minutes later when Faith got his first for the club, scoring at 28min 34sec. The newly bulked up Wallace was next on the scoresheet and gave the Phoenix a comfortable lead at 34min 55sec when he scored. Highlight move of the period which, didnt result in a goal actually, was Hand/Cingel and Faith breaking up ice 3 on 1 onyl to not score, who knows how! The buzzer sounded and capped an excellent period for the Phoenix, not only on the scoreboad, but Steeldogs heads were beginning to loose their cool, Payette and Wood in particular!

Third Period: This truly was an excellent period for the Phoenix, dominating the Steeldogs. At times it was both funny and embarrassing watching Payette loose the plot completely! Sadly for Foney the Steeldogs would break his shutout at score, after the third scrambled net attempt in the period. The Phoenix rode their luck one time too many and Sykes forced the puck through the bodies to reduce the deficit after 46min 22sec. Despite the score the Phoenix continued to dominate and it was no surprise when, with Bowns pulled, the Phoenix broke up ice and, after a few passes, Spelda was given the puck to score the empty netter at 58min 46sec. Capping a momentous day for him, news broke just before faceoff that he became a father for the first time!

Verdict: A great win, cracking atmosphere, the Dome was rocking once again! These games have been a perfect warm up for the league campaign. Early rust was long gone by the time Luke Boothroyd lifted the Roses Cup at the end. The team look to be gelling well, and after a week of training, should be read for the league campaign to begin. The new signing's look solid, and we really don't look to be missing Wood/Morgan and Gomeniuk. I know my good friend over at Banners on the Wall keeps saying that Koulikov is not import quality, but he doesn't have to be! He is a damn fine player in his own right. I think he could really be a star for the Phoenix! Spelda looks solid and intelligent in defence, a real quality partner for Harabin. Cingel looks to be re-establishing his long lost connection with Tony Hand, and Faith could well become one of the best forwards in the EPL. On the podcast Ben mentions his talk with Gomeniuk in the bar, where Pavel thinks the Phoenix have not replaced Kristoffersson. In my mind, we didnt have to! Anyone with a bit of quality on that topline could replace Kristoffersson. In Cingel/Faith I think we have a better first line than last year! There, ive said it!

Attendance: Swelled by a league championship there was a large crowd in the Ice Dome sunday night, i'll guess around 1,400. It sounded it certainly!

Phoenix 4 - 1 Sheffield - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 4 - 1 Sheffield - Sheffield Article
Phoenix 4 - 1 Sheffield - CB Sport

The Road to Glory......(Hopefully!)

2011-09-14T19:30:00.001+01:00

After much confusion, and after certain websites jumping the gun, the official EPL fixture list has been agreed and announced. The Manchester Phoenix will begin their title defence with a tough weekend, facing the Slough Jets on saturday before returning to the Ice Dome to face the Basingstoke Bison. The fixtures have also thrown up a funny last month or so, with the Phoenix having four back to back weekends against the Bracknell Bees, Swindon Wildcats, Telford Tigers and a final weekend against the Peterborough Phantoms.

The Phoenix, as usual, begin their season with a home/away series against the Sheffield Steeldogs for the 'War of the Roses' Cup. There will be added spice this year with the player movements between the clubs!

The Phoenix fixtures in full:

September
24th @ Slough
25th V Basingstoke

October
1st @ MKL
2nd V Swindon
8th V Peterborough
9th @Telford
16th V Slough
22nd @ Swindon
23rd V Bracknell
26th @ Guildford
29th @ Basingstoke
30th V Basingstoke

November
10th V Sheffield
12th V Telford
13th @ Guildford
19th @ Peterborough
20th V Peterborough
26th @ Basingstoke
27th V Slough

December
3rd @ Bracknell
4th V Basingstoke
10th V Guildford
11th @ Peterborough
17th @ Slough
18th V MKL
27th V Sheffield
30th @ MKL

January
2nd V Bracknell
7th @ Slough
8th @ Telford
14th @ Basingstoke
15th V MKL
21st V Guildford
22nd @ Guildford
26th V Sheffield
28th @ Bracknell

February
4th @ MKL
5th V Swindon
11th V Telford
12th @ Sheffield
19th V MKL
25th @Bracknell
26th V Bracknell

March
3rd @ Swindon
4th V Swindon
10th V Telford
11th @ Telford
17th @ Sheffield
18th V Slough
24th @ Swindon
25th V Guildford
31st @ Peterborough

April
1st V Peterborough

March is really a packed full month, the standout fixture for me is the visit of the Guildford Flames to the Ice Dome on the 24th March. If both sides are battling for the title that could be a real decider!

Phoenix Summer Update Number 5

2011-09-13T19:15:00.000+01:00

The final piece of the jigsaw has fallen into place, the Phoenix announced their final import slot would be filled on the D by 36 year old Czech Jaroslav Spelda. Spelda joins the Phoenix from Italian side Eppan Appiano, prior to his stint in Italy Jaroslav has spent the majority of his career in the Slovak and Czech Extraliga's, icing over 530 games across both countries.

Being the final player signed in the summer guarantee's he will be amazing! Tony Hand's final signings have a tradition of being some of his best, by all accounts Spelda will be no different. Tall-ish Spelda add's some good size and weight to the Phoenix D line and replace Gomeniuk who departed to Sheffield. I would love to see Spelda and Harabin together on the ice, they would be some immovable wall! However I don't think Tony will pair the two together. Hopefully Spelda will fit in well with the team, given all the Phoenix imports are all from the, former, Czecoslovakia there should be a certain kinship there. Apologise if that thought is wide of the mark, by the way, my history knowledge is a little rusty, the Czech's and the Slovak's may hate each others guts!

With his arrival the Phoenix now have a full roster, I plan on writing a couple of posts about the full squad, you may agree, you will probably disagree, but hey it's all fun!

One final comment, I notice across on the Iceman EPL website the Phoenix have had a few comments regarding Andrew Sharp. These have been comments relating to rumors Sharpy was off to Guildford. Why is everyone interested? Why are the Phoenix even commenting on it? He was only ever signed for one season, so it was never a given that he was returning to the Phoenix. For me, I didn't want Sharpy back, he did a job for us but, as soo many people say you really need point production from every roster spot in the EPL. While Sharp did get the odd point, you did have to worry he was going to get himself thrown out of a game!

Anyway Sharpy has gone back to the LNAH and signed for the, wonderfully named, Thetford Mines Isothermic!

Manchester Phoenix 2011/12 Fixture List

2011-09-11T17:21:00.001+01:00

After much confusion, and after certain websites jumping the gun, the official EPL fixture list has been agreed and announced. The Manchester Phoenix will begin their title defence with a tough weekend, facing the Slough Jets on saturday before returning to the Ice Dome to face the Basingstoke Bison. The fixtures have also thrown up a funny last month or so, with the Phoenix having four back to back weekends against the Bracknell Bees, Swindon Wildcats, Telford Tigers and a final weekend against the Peterborough Phantoms.

The Phoenix fixtures in full (subject to the inevitable change!):

September
24th @ Slough
25th V Basingstoke

October
1st @ MKL
2nd V Swindon
8th V Peterborough
9th @Telford
16th V Slough
22nd @ Swindon
23rd V Bracknell
26th @ Guildford
29th @ Basingstoke
30th V Basingstoke

November
10th V Sheffield
12th V Telford
13th @ Guildford
19th @ Peterborough
20th V Peterborough
26th @ Basingstoke
27th V Slough

December
3rd @ Bracknell
4th V Basingstoke
10th V Guildford
11th @ Peterborough
17th @ Slough
18th V MKL
27th V Sheffield
30th @ MKL

January
2nd V Bracknell
7th @ Slough
8th @ Telford
14th @ Basingstoke
15th V MKL
21st V Guildford
22nd @ Guildford
26th V Sheffield
28th @ Bracknell

February
4th @ MKL
5th V Swindon
11th V Telford
12th @ Sheffield
19th V MKL
25th @Bracknell
26th V Bracknell

March
3rd @ Swindon
4th V Swindon
10th V Telford
11th @ Telford
17th @ Sheffield
18th V Slough
24th @ Swindon
25th V Guildford
31st @ Peterborough

April
1st V Peterborough

March is really a packed full month, the standout fixture for me is the visit of the Guildford Flames to the Ice Dome on the 24th March. If both sides are battling for the title that could be a real decider!

The Phoenix rises in the Desert

2011-09-06T08:42:00.001+01:00

Last season v Detroit
The Coyotes play in the tough Pacific Division in the western conference, and finished tied for second with the Anaheim Ducks 6 points off first place. This meant the Yotes would play, once again, the mighty Detroit Red Wings in the Conference quarter final. The previous meeting between the two sides at this stage saw the Wings prevail 4 games to 3. Sadly this year it was a little one sided with the Wings securing progress through a 4-0 series win. I can't sugar coat it, the Wings won well, and despite two full houses in the desert the Coyotes just couldn't do it. The extra strength in depth on the Wings bench really did it for the Yotes. Despite some outstanding goalkeeping during the regular season, and the same in the post season, Bryzgalov stat's show the cost. A GAA of 2.48 over the regular season versus a GAA of 4.36 in the post season show just how good the Wings were. Not wanting to heap it all on Bryzgalov, the Phoenix top three point scorers in the post season were all showing minus on the ice. Doan/Vrbata and Yandle were -2/-5 and -5 respectively. So the 2010/11 season ended in disappointment, the Yotes didn't deserve a 4-0 whitewash, they deserved something!

Summer murmurings in the Desert
Must of the 2011 summer in Phoenix was spent with the continuing ownership saga, often shrouded in a cloud, much like the regular dust storms that cover Phoenix! Alot of people sounded the death knell for the Coyotes early on in the season, but something was different for me. As covered in my blog post 'Atlanta Thrashoff' there has always been a desire the keep the Coyotes in Phoenix. So it was no surprise to me that the True North organisation moved quickly onto the Atlanta Thrashers. With the NHL running the Coyotes and the City of Glendale backing the club the Phoenix look set to remain in the desert. I was never worried...........much!

Roster Changes
With the club staying in the desert the Coyotes turned their attention to the roster. with Bryzgalov's performances throughout the season and post season attracting attention the Coyotes acted and dealt him to the Philadelphia Flyers, clearing $5.6million of cap space. The Coyotes also got rid of some decent players who I will miss in the desert, mainly Jovanovski, Belanger, Fiddler and Lee Stempniak. On the flip side those departures, amongst others, allowed the Coyotes to make some key signing's and extensions. In comes Raffi Torres from the Vancouver Canucks to add some physicality and aggression, Alexandre Bolduc adds some good two-way skills, Patrick O'Sullivan brings an impressive wrist shot and a point-every other-game type production and in Daymond Langkow the Coyotes have added over 1,000 games of NHL experience to their center position. The other new arrival of note comes in the form of Mike Smith from the Tampa Bay Lightning. I remember watching Smith backstop the Lightning a number of times during the post season just gone. In fact in 3 appearances during the post season Smith had a GAA of 1!

New season hope
With the many new faces the Coyotes acted to re-sign some of their star players. Joining Mike Smith in the goaltending department, with a new contract, is Jason LeBarbera. Often Bryzgalov's understudy, LeBarbera has impressed in his own right. Prior to Smith's arrival I would have had LeBarbera down as the Coyotes started, but im not so sure now! Healthy competition will only help the Coyotes! The next three players are all franchise players in my eyes, three guys who make me think Coyotes. Those are, Radim Vrbata, Lauri Korpikoski and Keith Yandle. Vrbata and Korpikoski are reliable guys who will always put up points. Keith Yandle and Shane Doan are two big stars of the Coyotes franchise, two big earners and two players who will fight to be the franchise top point scorers each season. Yandle at 24 years will become a Phoenix legend. His 5 year $26.5mil contract will ensure he remains in Phoenix and was possible the most important contract signature of the summer.

Shane Doan is someone who amazes me 64 points from 86 games off the blue line are damn impressive numbers, and his 6ft 2in presence makes him an imposing presence on the ice. Having joined the Phoenix in 1995 Doan is the current face of the Coyotes, and a player who has stuck with the Yotes through thick and thin! You don't often get loyalty like that in profession sports anymore!

The Coyotes have a real blend of experience and youth this coming season, and I for one really think the Coyotes can get deeper in the post season this year, even if they meet the Wings!

The Dog's of the Desert

2011-09-01T21:10:00.002+01:00

coyotes_uk, that's my sign in on so many forums on the internet I really should explain where it came from! Way back when, I was sat in an internet cafe in Wilmslow to set up my first email account. At the time I was still playing hockey, attended games at the old Devonshire Road ice rink in Altrincham and was a Trafford Metro's fan. Players like Oleg Sinkov, Ari-Peka Mikkola, Rick fera, Igor Yurchenko and future Telford Tiger legend Claud Dumas graced the old aircraft hangar ice. I was into hockey, i loved it, the old ice rink in Altrincham had no plexi, just boards and netting. You were really up close with the action and I was converted, a hockey die hard.

At the same time I regularly watched the NHL on the telly and for some, irrational reason, became a fan of the Phoenix Coyotes. I think my affinity with the Yotes as I see my growth in hockey along side the Yotes establishing themselves in the desert, ive almost grown up at the same time as the Coyotes. Thus, being a Coyotes fan living in the UK you can see where my sign in comes from! I really thought long and hard about that one! All that, of course, bears no relation to the naming of this blog, but my love affair with the Yotes continues!

Everyone knows about the current issues regarding the Coyotes and their future, but throughout it all I have never seen any concrete moves to take the Yotes from the desert. The fan support and passion is there, just look at the, now legendary, white out's! Look at the post season atmosphere's in the arena. The fans are there in the desert, they just need to come out a little more often. A while ago I did some stats based on average attendances, and I believe since their inception the Coyotes have always averaged in the bottom 5 in the NHL. I firmly believe the past to season appearance in the post season, and the Coyotes youthful team will help build the fan base. I will be interested to see how attendances go this coming season.

Anyway the 2011/12 season will see a bit more Coyotes coverage on this blog, @theangrybudgie has been getting more coverage and connections with hockey fans in Arizona (thanks to @azvibesports) and as a result a few more hits for the blog. Plus being the Manchester branch of the Coyotes fanclub I feel it is only right to do my bit!

So this is just an introductory blog but I plan on writing a bit more about last season's, now seemingly regular date with the Wings in the postseason. exploits, this summer's fun and the things to look forward to in 2011/12!

Now if the Phoenix ever played Phoenix, I think I would literally explode!

Phoenix Summer Update Number 4

2011-08-30T18:46:00.003+01:00

Phoenix keep the Faith

Ok so despite my best efforts not to fall into the obvious trap I cannot avoid it! There was only ever going to be one headline for the update! The Phoenix captured their final import forward, and another in the growing Slovak army on the Phoenix roster. None other than 35 year old Juraj Faith.

Over his career in Slovakia Juraj scored nearly a point a game, the majority in the top Slovakian league. Being the final import forward signed means, this guy will probably be amazing. Being on a line with Sir Tony Hand will ensure Juraj will have a career year at the Phoenix. Along with Cingel the Phoenix top line is looking impressive already. The only small fly in the ointment for me, and I admit to not knowing the reason why is, as per his elite prospect stats he has played the last two seasons across 6 clubs. This could be something, or absolutely nothing! Maybe the switch to a new country, new league will be just what Juraj needs!

Juraj also iced a season with EHC Freiburg, I know my colleague over a Banners on the Wall said not to read much into that year, but I look at it slightly differently. The DEL is one of the top leagues in Europe, even the bottom clubs in the DEL will offer far more quality as a whole when compared to the EPL. It would be Freiburg's only season in the DEL! In some ways, I would equate his experience in the DEL to that of Martin Cingel, able to regularly put up points in a terrible team!

It's always exciting when a club signs a player new to the league, slight nervousness as to his ability to adapt and fit in, and excitement to see what sort of skills he has. Juraj is 35 and has vast experience, so im looking forward to seeing his skill and hockey brain out on the ice. In fact with Cingel also at age 35, the average age of the Phoenix topline has gone up. But I do believe it will be a much improved line. No taking away from what Kristoffersson and Huppe did for the club last year. They were both guilty of going MIA. Cingel has been battle hardened in Edinburgh when he was the main source of points, and Faith has the extensive experience of Slovak hockey behind him. With Hand in the middle, its an exciting line for us Phoenix fan's!

CB Sport - Juraj Faith
Juraj Faith - Elite Hockey Prospects

El-Hage Back's up the Phoenix
Hot off the press, the Phoenix have sorted out their back up netminder position by promoting Jorge El-Hage from the Metro's through to the full EPL side. Jorge follows the path beaten my Adam Summerfield and is an example of Neil Morris desire to set up the Phoenix Academy. It's a clear example of the system working. Now we just have to see what he is like and how good he is, but he will learn so much training with the EPL side and being understudy to Stephen Fone!

Phoenix Summer Update Number 3

2011-08-06T19:54:00.002+01:00

We've got Wood......well one at least!
Signing up for his third full season in Phoenix colours Ben Wood returns to the Ice Dome to fill in as one of a number of utility players the Phoenix will have this coming season. To be fair to Ben, he has been the Phoenix utility player all his career. Naturally a defenceman Ben was played as a forward for much of his time, before reverting back to his more natural defensive position during the latter stages of the season. I do like Ben as a player, he is tall, a good skater and uses his stick intelligently, being one of the best poke-checkers on the ice. However I will admit to being surprised he has signed up for this season. While he knew his ice time would be limited I really got the impression last season he was getting really frustrated with the lack of ice time he was getting. Plus he has now set up his own gym I naturally thought he may wish to leave and concentrate on that. But fair do's to the guy, he has committed to returning, working hard, and forcing his way onto the ice for more shift's. I am pleased he has returned, as are many Phoenix fan's. If Ben can continue to grow, and bulk up a little, he will become a great EPL defenceman.

Ryan Johnson plays for Phoenix, he has a porno tash.......
The Ryan Johnson chant will be back and sung from the Phoenix stands once more as Ryan Johnson is returning to the Phoenix. A surprising addition to the club, as the Sheffield native would have been an obvious target for Andre Payette's 'made in sheffield Steeldogs'. Johnson split his 10/11 season between the Steeldogs and Steelers playing 52 games for 20 points, including 4 points in 13 games for the EIHL side. I remember Ryan being a stocky lad, not tall but a solid player. Not the most spectacular on the ice, but he will make things difficult for opposition forwards. He add's much needed bulk to the Phoenix blue line and looks to be the Phoenix 3rd utility signing giving the roster much more flexibility that in previous seasons.

Tonight Matthew I will be mostly on the blue line!
James Neil becomes the latest returnee for the Phoenix signing on for his 3rd full season with the Phoenix James will be played predominantly as a defenceman. Round off the triumvirate of utility players James is comfortable playing both sides of the puck. James is a firm fan favorite and a thoroughly nice guy, he always has time for the fans and will stay and chat for hours if you want! He gives 100% on the ice too, which is a must at EPL level, he works hard, sees the ice well and is capable of looking after himself when involved in the rough stuff! James infections personality endears himself with fans and players alike, in fact James has often appeared on the Phoenix podcast and Phoenix TV and looked at ease. James Neil is another player who is quickly becoming Mr Manchester and I can guarantee most Phoenix fans would be only too happy to see James return year on year!

Phoenix Summer Update Number 2

2011-07-25T20:02:00.003+01:00

Sorry for the little gap in between posts 1 and 2, The Angry Budgie went on its travels to Japan and Singapore. It turns out it takes a fair amount of time to get yourself ready for a trip!

Title Winning Defence returns for another year:
It was said early on in the offseason that the Phoenix had re-signed 6 players from the title winning team and had offers out with 3 other players, and some Phoenix fans were getting impatient at how slow the Phoenix were announcing their new roster. I could see the thinking though, why reveal your hand so early, like the Steeldogs? Slowly slowly catchy monkey or something like that! Anyway the next big announcement from the Phoenix saw the rock steady Luke Boothroyd return for another year. The Huddersfield native quickly becoming a Phoenix franchise player and Mr Manchester Phoenix! The other name, and one name I expected to move on to Europe was the return of Ladislav Harabin. One of the best defensemen in the EPL, and one who could cut it in the EIHL, Harabin was an absolute rock on the blue line. Tough mentally and physically, I will always remember the awful injury he took in Slough, and Tambo telling me on the Podcast that all he was bothered about was, getting back out on the ice. Nutter, absolute nutter!

A Capital reunion and BT Fone's home:
With the departure of Huppe and Kristoffersson the Phoenix had to replace and repair the potent top line. The first piece of the jigsaw and second cog of that first line would see Martin Cingel head south and swap the Capitals for the Phoenix. Reuniting Cingel and Hand from their stint in the Scottish capital back in 2003-06. Many people will look at his point production and say it is a downgrade when put up against Huppe/Kristoffersson. I would say, bunkum, utter bunkum, any player who can put up a point a game (more or less) on a terrible Capitals roster has the talent to rip up a league if put on the right team and line. You would be a brave brave man to bet against Cingel having a career year with the Phoenix alongside Tony Hand. Huppe is the only player from last seasons first line who can say he was up in the points before coming to the Phoenix, Kristoffersson certainly wasn't, both players point production went through the roof last year. Cingel has produced consistently during his time in Edinburgh and im looking forward to seeing him in Phoenix colours now!
Steve Fone is another returnee, and someone who improved vastly during the 10/11 campaign. The great thing with BT is, during last season he emerged as one of the best keepers in the league, and he still has so much room for improvement. Always a calm head between the pipes, Fone will often contort into some weird shapes to keep the puck at bay. Fone is part of an emerging Phoenix backbone/franchise players, along with Boothroyd and Duggan these three form a great spine from which to build the Phoenix.

Two more pieces fall into place:
The next two signings announced by the Phoenix were two players on my 'must sign' list. James Archer and Stephen Wallace, one a hard working grafter and the other the silky smooth showman of the second line. James Archer came to the Phoenix and slotted right in and hit the ground running. A player who will skate and skate and skate and then skate some more Archer combined well with the rest of the second line to add real depth and quality to the Phoenix lines. Along with Wallace, the Phoenix of 10/11 finally had a quality second line who could contribute and, at times during the season, carry the squad while the top line misfired. Wallace, the skillful winger from Billingham returns for his third year, really impressed last term. My favorite player of last year Wallace could get the puck round any player in front of him, and would often leave goalies on their backsides and score into an empty net. If he can hit the ice running next season Wallace could become a top 5 point scorer in the league!

Phoenix new blood:
Any UK hockey fan will tell you, a roster changes almost 100% year on year. So far this offseason the Phoenix have announced one new arrival in Martin Cingel and a hell of a lot of departures. The latest announcement sees former Basingstoke Bison tough guy Ciaran Long and former Panther Josh Ward arrive in Altrincham. From memory I am glad the Phoenix have captured someone line Long, last years experiment with Andrew Sharp showed that in some instances an enforcer has a place in the EPL. However Andrew's point production really was not good enough, and the Phoenix could not afford a player of his type for a full season. The toughness must come from each existing player on the roster and Long will bring some of that needed toughness to the Phoenix. For more in depth knowledge of Ciaran Long I strongly urge you to head on over to my good friend @84arussel and his blog: Banners on the Wall. I believe he is soon writing a farewell peace for Ciaran Long and has passed on the treasured mantle of #LoveCiaranLongTime to the Phoenix!
I must admit to now knowing much about Josh Ward, but anyone who can force his way onto the NIC ice must be half decent! Another Panther youngster who heads to the Phoenix for icetime. He may well end up treading the Lachowicz route to a full time roster spot with the Panthers. A year under the tutelage of Sir Tony Hand will do wonders for Ward. He is one player I look forward to seeing come the first puck drop in September!

Since returning from my trip the Phoenix have added two more players, I will get working on a post to cover their arrival!

Phoenix Summer Update Number 1

2011-07-12T19:03:00.002+01:00

First off I wanted to apologize for the length of time it has taken me to get round to a new blog post. I must admit the hockey off season is not the best for producing long/witty and thought provoking pieces! But what the hell let's give it a go!

Before we launch right into it, I must bring your attention to a new Phoenix Blog written by a good friend of The Angry Budgie: Gemma Howarths hockey blog. Go take a look, it offers another perspective on all things hockey and Phoenix related!

Anyway to this blog post, so far the Phoenix have taken a very sedate route to announcing their signings. In stark contrast to our friends from over t'hills the Steeldogs. Who, after only a couple of weeks, had announced pretty much their entire roster! Including a few of the Phoenix title winning squad in Greg Wood, Ben Morgan and Pavel Gomeniuk. I guess being a Phoenix fan, while looking at this offseason, it would be rude not to start here!

Steeldogs Bite the Phoenix wings:
Early on I remember rumors regarding certain members of the Phoenix roster moving over to Sheffield appearing, initially I shrugged them off thinking, why move from a title winning side to Sheffield? It was at this time that silly rumors started flying around, some saying half of the Phoenix roster was on the move. That one was a little silly! As the week's passed it become more obvious that Woody, Morgs and Pasha were on the move. When it was later confirmed by the Steeldogs I was gutted, really gutted. But then, when a level head returned, I quickly turned to the well know status of 'Meh'! Of the three im only really sorry to see Ben Morgan go. Decent British defensemen are a) hard to come by and b) expensive! Pasha well, was brilliant on the Phoenix blue line, and I loved his booming slapshot from the blue line. But he is an import defenseman, plenty of those available. Plus, if we are to be cheeky, of the Ladzi/Pasha pair, i'd much prefer to hold onto Ladzi! A move to Sheffield also makes sense for Pasha, he signed for them last summer before the Scimitar's problems and, living in Hull, the Steeldogs are a better fit for him. Anyway I digress! So to Greg Wood, a feisty little player who spent most of his time on the third line with the Phoenix. Not sad to see him go really, as he never really consistently produced the goods on the ice. He had a good start to the 10/11 season, went off the boil and then only picked up again during March! The main surprise with this departure is, Greg is to be made the Steeldogs captain! He's a good player, but captain material? I guess the same could have been said for Luke Boothroyd before he was made Phoenix captain!

The Great One Returns:
Well this had to be the most ridiculous rumor of the summer. Sir Tony of Hand was off to Fife to coach them during their debut EIHL season. So many people on twitter and THF decided this was a done deal and, despite evidence to the contrary, and took great delight in belittling myself and other Phoenix fans for believing otherwise. All this despite Tony entering the final year of his contract and making no noises at all about departing the Phoenix. So you can imagine how big my smile was when the Phoenix and Tony Hand announced a new 3 year contract for the great one, keeping him in Altrincham until 2015:

Out of the gloom, a chink of light:
Prior to Tony Hand's announcement above, all the Phoenix had to dine on were rumors of players leaving. First it was Marcus getting unsettled as no contact had been made from the Phoenix. Then it looked like Huppe was on his way to the Flames. Needless to say alarm bells were ringing amongst the Phoenix faithful. I tried to look at it in a different way, yes I would be gutted if Huppe/Kristoffersson left, but I was comforted by the fact that, every season we see top imports leave, only to have them replaced by equally good imports! I think back to Molin/Tallari/D Beauregard/Hagelberg all fan favorites, all have left, all have been replaced! I am confident this year will be no different! So, gloom dominated the early offseason for Phoenix fans, until the Tony Hand announcement we had nothing to celebrate. Until the 10th May when the re-signing of Tom Duggan and the signing of Slava Koulikov from the Slough Jets. What a way to start the roster building! Sign up a fan favorite and one of the standout Brits from 10/11 and one of the best British forwards in the EPL. I'm over the moon Duggy is back, he provides so much grit/determination and effort on the ice, he alone can lift his linemates. Koulikov is a player I have admired on the ice, very skillful and will fit in perfectly on the second or first line depending on the makeup of the full roster.

Atlanta Thrashoff!

2011-06-09T20:17:00.002+01:00

Over the past week or so True North Sports and Entertainment have concluded a deal to purchase the Atlanta Thrashers with the stated aim of moving them to the MTS Centre in Winnepeg.

So my hockey twitter feed has been filled with Thrasher fans bemoaning the immanent move of their team. It is a very sad time for a fan, and one I was expecting as a Yotes fan only a month ago! However it also struck me that, isn't all this passion a bit late in the day? Are all these people active Thrasher fans? Or are they only coming out the woodwork now as it looks like the team is gone? Pulling figures from the ESPN website the Thrashers are home one of the smallest fan bases in the NHL. Over the past few years only the Yotes and Islanders see fewer fans in their building. In fact, over the past 4 years the Thrashers have seen their average attendance drop from 15,381 to 13,469, a 12.4% drop. Despite the drop the performance on the ice actually improved, going from 14th in the East to 12th in the East over the same time frame. That would suggest the fans are not turning out for the club, despite the on-ice results getting better.

So why are the Yotes staying put and the Thrashers are on the move?

Well, there is obviously many things that are considered when moving a franchise, not only the level of fan support. Things like the ownership, the city where the team is based, the NHL and other prospective ownership groups and cities. As a UK based NHL fan, looking at average attendances, Atlanta would be the third choice for a move, behind the Isles and Yotes. Here's why I think those two are not moving:

The Islanders
Bottom of the pile in terms of average attendance, the men from Long Island have had the smallest average attendance for 4 out of the 6 years since the lockout. Their 2010-11 season average being 11,059, that alone a 13% drop from the season before. Despite making the post season four times over the past 10 years the Islanders support has never broke 15,000 on average. This to me has them as prime candidates for a move. The difference with the Islanders is, their ownership seems commited to the area, and the NHL too. In fact during all the questions about Winnepeg getting a franchise, the Isles have never been linked. The Isles also have the advantage of having the Rangers/Devils/Flyers and Bruins on their doorstep, whereas the Thrashers have few close rivals. The Islanders also have the prospect of a new rink to look forward too, while that is no given for larger attendances it will help the team bring in extra revenue from things like corporate boxes and hospitality. Something the Nassau Coliseum lacks.

The Coyotes
Since moving to the desert the Coyotes have always had one of the smallest fan bases in the NHL, so it was no surprise that questions about its future were raised. The Coyotes ownership has also not been a steady rock, and the current issues have been going for more than a year. The NHL at a time ran the Yotes, and a new deal is in place to put the team back into private hands. With the possibility of stable ownership and a young team, the Yotes look to have a good future ahead. In fact the past two seasons have seen the Yotes make it to the post season, only to fall to Detroit on both occasions. The Yotes moved from their downtown Phoenix home to the purpose built Jobing.com arena during the 2003-04 season and while they never consistently sell out, having a new building must help bring in revenue. Crucially for the Coyotes, the city of Glendale has been active in wanting to keep the Yotes in the desert. Having the city backing must be a big factor in the Yotes staying put.

All of the above could well be utter rubbish, but it's the impression I get this side of the pond from various announcements and press releases. Now i'll give you a few thoughts as to why I think the Thrashers are moving:

The Thrashers
The first, and most obvious to me is, the level of support. While the Thrashers average crowd is bigger, just, than that enjoyed by the Yotes and Isles, it is still small. The Thrashers peak attendances came when the reached the conference quarter finals back in 2007. Ever since then crowd numbers have been in decline, falling from over 16,000 to 13,500 in the season just gone. Obviously crowds were not helped when the Thrashers dealt away their biggest star in Kovalchuk but crowd numbers are merely returning to their pre lockout levels. Atlanta is a big city, bigger than Glendale and bigger than Long Island, it has the biggest airport in the world and, much like many an NHL city, has other major league clubs too. So there are plenty of reasons why the Thrashers should enjoy better support but, for what ever reason, they don't. Sport is more often than not, a results business and its possibly due to their lack of success that the Thrashers are not a bigger box office draw. Over the past ten seasons the Thrashers have made the post season once, while the Yotes have made it 3 times and the Isles 4 times! The ownership has been strangely silent during all this speculation about the future of the franchise and, judging by some tweets, could well be partially at fault. Then you have the city itself, as I said above Glendale have been activly involved in the Coyotes and working hard to retain their NHL franchise. You couldnt say the same about the city of Atlanta. It seems, to this un-educated fan, that the ownership and city have done little to prevent this move.

So, it looks like the move is going to happen. Will it be a success? Maybe! The team in Winnepeg looks like it is moving into a 15,000 seat AHL arena which is a little small for an NHL arena. They can be sure of a sold debut season certainly! I do feel sorry for Thrasher fans, being a Phoenix (Manchester) fan I can relate to losing your team, but I also think Winnepeg can be a success. There is hockey tradition in Winnepeg, and I truly believe there should be more Canadian teams in the NHL.

So there's my ramblings, its good to download stuff from the brain to the blog!

Goodby Atlanta, hello Winnepeg!

Phoenix Champions Review - The Forwards Part 2

2011-05-22T11:51:00.000+01:00

Now for the rest of the forwards......

Number 16 - Joe Miller
Played: 34, Goals: 18, Assists: 15, Points: 33 (Peterborough)
Played: 17, Goals: 4, Assists: 6, Points: 10 (Manchester)

Joe joined the Phoenix from the Phantoms during the latter half of the season, the was probably the first time the Phoenix have signed an extra player to enhance the squad. Sharp came in just before christmas to replace a previously departed player, so Miller was an addition to the squad. He really joined at the right time, as the Phoenix had been experiencing a bit of a slump heading into the business end of the season. His fresh energy really was a shot in the arm and spurred the team on during those final months. While Joe's point production dropped from nearly a point a game he was the final piece in a really effective third line for the Phoenix. Joe added some height to the line and a really hard work ethic, as did the whole of that third line. Joe's arrival probably helped the Phoenix win the league. Being able to roll three strong lines helped take the pressure of Hand/Huppe/Kristoffersson in terms of ice time and gave the squad that extra stamina to get over the line. Those of you will remember Miller had iced for the Phoenix before, in their first season as the Phoenix during the EIHL days. Joe struggled in that year, but has come back a better player, and a much better fit in the EPL.

The Budgie Rating: 6.5/10

Number 19 - Tom Duggan
Played: 52, Goals: 13, Assists: 17, Points: 30

Tommy Duggan, what a season! The pocket dynamo, the guy could run the lights at the Ice Dome for the whole season with the energy he generated in one game. I will always remember Tambo remarking, during one podcast recording, 'That Tommy Duggan is a hazard to his own health'.......he is right tho! Tom worked hard every shift, competed for every puck, would take on any player on the opposition bench, and really make a nuisance of himself. Another payer who quickly became a fan favorite, not only for his on ice ability, but his office ability too! Highlight being, playing the national anthem on the ice before a game with his Fender Strat! Some Phoenix fans will also remember his guitar duties during the party in the Ice Dome bar after the title winning game! Tom really had a great season for the Phoenix, and I really hope he is one of the 6 players already signed up by the club. Im pretty confident he is staying, hell, at the end of season supporters do, he said he's staying pretty much! Ok so the words, im signed for next season, did slip his lips, but what he said was just as good as! The only worrying thing now is, if he continues to play as he is, it won't be long until the EIHL come's a knocking!

The Budgie Rating: 8/10.

Number 28 - Marcus Kristoffersson
Played: 54, Goals: 62, Assists: 50, Points: 112

Toffee, or Kristo's Beard according to one twitter user, the big Swede came to Manchester with a question mark hanging over him. After many injury prone years, would he be the top sniper the Phoenix had hoped for. Well....as you can see from the stats above, he did just that! Helped by the evergreen Sir Toe Knee Hand, Kristo quickly became one of the leagues hottest properties, backed up by his physical play Marcus had a monster of a slap shot. It would usually take a few goes during a game, but once his eye was in, he was lethal! Some opposition fans will bemoan his antics at times, but quite frankly, his antics were no worse than quite a few players in the EPL. In fact, I would go so far as to say, Marcus is quite tame by some standards. In the end though, he has the stats to wipe the floor with any criticism that is sent his way. Marcus and his family seemed to adapt to life in Manchester well, and it is rumored he is keen to stay but, if certain rumors are to be believed, the season just gone could be his one and only in the UK. I want Marcus to stay, but if he goes, I wish him well!

The Budgie Rating: Has to be a second 10/10 im afraid! Number two point scorer in the league to Tony Hand, can only be a 10!

Number 39 - Curtis Huppe
Played: 54, Goals: 59, Assists: 51, Points: 110

The 'other guy' in the Phoenix all conquering top line, Curtis came to the Phoenix with a certain point to prove. After some disappointing years with Coventry/Hull Curtis is a player who could still cut it in the EIHL. While never as flashy as Marcus, or as switched on as Tony, Curtis is a big tall guy who had a mean eye for the net. Coming in at number three in the leagues top point scorers, and with his own fan song to boot, Huppe had a great year with the Phoenix. Curtis was always the professional, always had time for the fans, and was always last to leave the ice during warm up. I would be delighted for Huppe to come back for season number 2 with the Phoenix. This seasons stats would not have gone unnoticed by the rest of the EPL/EIHL or even European clubs but, with a family back in Belfast I doubt he will go to Europe. After the season he has had, I really do not envy Tony with the decisions he has to make. Do you retain Huppe and keep that top line? Or is the budget there to sign a better import forward? Either way the fans will respect Huppe for what he has done for the Phoenix. All together now. Woooaaahh Curtis Curtis Huppe, Woooaaahh Curtis Curtis Huppe, Woooaaahh Curtis Curtis Huppe, Slapshot, Wristshot, Goal Goal Goal!

The Budgie Rating: The third of the triumvirate, the third 10/10 from The Budgie!

Number 64 - Andrew Sharp
Played: 28, Goals: 2, Assists: 1, Points: 3

A signing that polarized opinion across all hockey leagues/fans in the UK, many forming their opinions from memories from a few years ago and passing judgement before seeing the guy play for the Phoenix! As I can never remember Sharp's play during his time in the UK previously I approached his mid-season signing with an open mind and blank book...etc....! Signed as a tough guy to protect the Phoenix talent Andrew's mission was a simple one. He immediately added some mettle to the roster and injected new life into the squad, and quickly became a fan favorite. While he was more than willing to abide an opposition agitator, Sharpy could play! He had very good awareness on the ice, worked hard everyshift, and would position himself well on the ice to receive the puck. While many an opposition fan would question his use in the league, Sharpy had an effect by just being in the building. Many an agitator would remain quiet all game playing the Phoenix, see messers Wiggins and Grundmanis! Personally I think Sharpy contributed vastly to the Phoenix roster, and helped create some breathing room for the first line, by allowing the Phoenix to roll with three full lines, rather than the usual 2 and a half! A perfectly nice guy off the ice Sharpy would be welcomed back next season by the Phoenix faithful, if he returns or not depends on the Phoenix roster that shapes up over the summer.

The Budgie Rating: 7/10 for Sharp, could have been more but he only played half a season with the Phoenix.

Phoenix Champions Review - The Forwards Part 1

2011-05-16T19:46:00.001+01:00

Number 2 - James Archer
Played: 54, Goals: 21, Assists: 23, Points: 44

James has come on so much this past season, a very solid second line forward he has determination and great strength. Plus, come playoff time, a fantastic ability to grow a decent playoff beard! Very important! James is a player who I want back at the Phoenix next season, he is the type of British forward you can use as part of a core group to grow a team over many years. James is defiantly one of those forwards who does not necessarily stand out and wow the crowd, but is missed when he is not on the ice. Archer played well on the second line for the Phoenix and seemed to revel in the locker room banter. Where he plays next season could depend on how the Phoenix roster shapes up, as to whether he will continue on the second line, or if an EIHL club comes in for him. He is another player that, given the ice time, could develop into a quality Brit. Maybe not in the same mold as Lachowicz but more the hard working grinder type player.

The Budgie Rating: A solid 7/10!

Number 8 - Greg Wood
Played: 54, Goals: 11, Assists: 25, Points: 36

Greg is an immensely hard working player, the epitome of which was the Phoenix semi-final in last years EPL finals weekend. Phoenix were on the penalty kill and Greg took the puck up the ice into the Slough zone, and wasted a good minute and a half by keeping the puck. Despite the attentions of two or three Jets players. He works hard all game and gives his all, I just wish he put up more points. That could be his play, or being on the second/third line all year. Despite putting up 36 points, he could have done so much more and possibly run Stephen Wallace as the second highest Brit point scorer on the Phoenix roster. The majority of his point production came in the latter third of the season, so just think what he could have done. It has already emerged Greg is part of the 'mass exodus' (three players) to the Sheffield Steeldogs, where he will be made captain. A surprising move, he doesn't seem like captain material to me, though I could have said that about Luke Boothroyd to be honest! What do I know! Will he be missed? In my eyes...no! I think the Phoenix can sign a better, more consistent player in his place. But The Angry Budgie wishes him well, he is going back home, is captain and will get much more icetime in Sheffield than he ever could in Altrincham.

The Budgie Rating: 6/10 for Greg.

Number 9 - Tony Hand
Played: 54, Goals: 25, Assists: 108, Points: 133

Have you seen the point figure above? I mean have you? Seriously? The British Great One (tm), the reason 'The Code' (tm) was set up, Tony has had another stellar year, though made all the sweeter by capturing the league title. A PPG of 2.46 shows the old man is not slowing down just yet. For better or worse, he is at the heart of everything Phoenix, the vast majority of attacking play goes through him. The tried and tested line on Tony is, he doesn't need to be on the ice to get an assist is so true! Only 25 goals but 108 assists! The man frustrates the hell out of me when he will not shoot the puck, but more often than not he passes to someone else who will score! There have been some amongst the Phoenix faithful who have called for Tony to step down, retire or go completely, for me that's utter bull poo! If the Phoenix were ever to let Tony go, do they even have the money/ability to find another guaranteed 100+ point player? There are not many of those nocking around! During the first month or so of the offseason there was a rumor Tony would be leaving to take the reigns at Fife as they entered the EIHL for the 2011-12 season, I remember being shot down in flames on The Hockey Forum and on twitter for suggesting he wouldn't as he was under contract for the Phoenix until the end of that season. Lo and behold not only will he be staying, but he has signed an extension to that contract to keep him at the Phoenix for an additional three years. Im not one to gloat, but it felt good when that was announced! Long live Sir Tony!

The Budgie Rating: Cant be anything other than 10/10 for the legend!

Number 12 - James Neil
Played: 54, Goals: 3, Assists: 11, Points: 14

One of the most popular guys on the Phoenix roster this past year, James spent his time on the third line with Tom Duggan and Sharp/Miller, that is, when he was not playing D on the top line and being part of the powerplay unit. James began the year playing his normal position but, as Ben Wood has done so for many a season, became the Phoenix second, i'll play anywhere kinda guy! James maybe a small lad, but he was never shy of a hit or covering every inch of the ice. A nifty player with decent pace James could be disappointed with his point production this year but, as we all know, points are not the only contribution a player can make. James had a good season on the ice, and has become a firm fan favorite over the 54 games, and I know the vast majority will want to see him back next year. While he is not quite ready to make a regular contribution in an EIHL roster just yet, James will want to improve his ice time and stats next season. I really feel like the Phoenix will have a very strong second line next year, if so this will mean James will remain on the third line, but with regular appearances on the powerplay unit as he has done this season just gone. While the Phoenix could improve on James, a better player would have to fit in the overall budget, so that may not be possible. I would be more than happy to see James ice next season with the Phoenix, as he is immensely reliable. Plus he is another of the 'core group' of players i'd like the Phoenix to hold onto for a few years!

The Budgie Rating: 7/10.

Number 14 - Stephen Wallace
Played: 54, Goals: 25, Assists: 25, Points: 50

A player with silky skills, nearly a point a game, and maybe if you imagined Tony Hand at 75% you could well arrive at Stephen Wallace! Stephen is a solid second line player and excelled last season. One of my favorite players on the Phoenix roster, Wally is quick, can stick handle out of any situation near as damn it, and has become a very difficult player to take the puck from. He used his wicked wrist shop to great effect over the season, and deservedly became the second highest Brit scorer on the Phoenix bench. I will always remember when the Phoenix played the Phantoms on their last visit to the Ice Dome, Wallace had the puck right in front of Stephen Wall only to deak Wall and leave him on his ass. It's cruel to say it, but it looked hilarious! But that sums Wallace up, his hands are so quick he really can undress you and leave you for dead. A real quality Brit forward Stephen is always high up on my re-sign pecking order and, if the Phoenix want to retain their league championship, Wally's quality will be needed on the second line once again!

The Budgie Rating: 8/10.