The Steeldogs rolled into Altrincham for another encounter in the war of the roses games. An expectant crowd assembled in a freezing Ice Dome to see both teams take to the Ice, Phoenix without Schnabel with with Barri McKenzie and Derek Campbel. Sheffield, I believe, were at full strength.
First Period: The key with Sheffield is to get a good early start, giving the Steeldogs a goal headstart is not wise as they are one of the most hard working teams in the EPL! Thankfully for the home side that was not to happen. In fact the first goal came on a Phoenix penalty kill. Often, when killing a penalty, the Phoenix will leave someone close to the blue line to capitalise on any breakdowns. This happened and Tony Hand raced up ice with, after an initial stumble, Derek Campbell. Campbell would tap in a simple goal, short handed, to give the Phoenix the lead at 7min 29sec. Phoenix continued to press and were rewarded with a second goal at 11min 07sec when Flaten, practically on the Sheffield goal line, fired a hard shot goal wards, which somehow managed to squeeze past Flavell and into the goal. Andy McKinnie added a third to the Phoenix tally at 17min 19sec and the Phoenix looked strong. You can never write off the Steeldogs and, into the last minute of the period, Elliot got their first of the night at 19min 11sec.
Second Period: What ever Andre said in the interval did the trick, at 21min 35sec, so just into the second session, Ben Morgan brought the Steeldogs to within a goal with a neat tap in on the far post. With the scores now at 3-2 the game tightened up, Sheffield had now woken up and were competing hard as we know they can. As the period wore on clear cut chances were few and far between but it was still a good watch.
Third Period: Just 20 minutes to go and the Steeldogs would get the next goal to tie the game 3 a piece. 45min 23sec and Pasha Gomeniuk scored for Sheffield. That man moves with the agility of an ice berg but, he still has quality! Sheffield upped their game but in doing so began to leave gaps for the Phoenix. Phoenix would score next, and another short handed goal, when Psurny scored at 55min 15sec. With one goal to defend the home crowd upped their noise levels and, with less than a minute to go, the points were made safe. As if written in the stars Campbell would get his second of the night and secure the win, goal timed at 59min 01sec.
Verdict: A good win against a difficult Sheffield side, plus it seemed the Campbell the Phoenix had was different to the one Sheffield had. Two goals, one assist and a fight (albeit a naff one) was a good return for Campbell. So a pleasing win for the home crowd to enjoy.
Attendance: A healthy crowd in the Ice Dome, i'll guess at around 1,000
Phoenix 5 Sheffield 3 - Cheshire Today
Phoenix 5 Sheffield 3 - Steeldogs Article
Friday, 4 January 2013
Wednesday, 12 December 2012
Phoenix v MK Lightning 9th December Game Review
Going in to last weekend the Phoenix were having a bit of a wobble, having gone four games without a win and only one point to show for it. The weekend would also be the last, in Phoenix colours, for Scott McKenzie. After a mutual decision he was to leave and return to the Telford Tigers. His space on the roster being filled by Barrie McKenzie who joins the Phoenix from the Cardiff Devils. Personally, im gutted to lose Scott, while he had not been lighting the lamp with consistency he is a player who I was very please with joining the Phoenix. He stands out as a quality quality player on the Tigers lineup.
Who knows the reasons for his leaving but, all his work and efforts while pulling on the Phoenix jersey were appreciated by us fans and, I hope we get to see him lace up his boots for the Phoenix in the future!
MK are the latest visitors to the Ice Dome and always provide a feisty opponent. They have a wily mind in Nick Poole and EPL veteran Nicky Chinn, MK are a team that is run on a tight ship and will always compete and give you a hard time. That being said I would always expect the Phoenix to close out a win on home ice to MK, famous last words and all that! Early team news for the Phoenix. Steve Fone, who sat out the previous nights win in Bracknell would also sit out this game to aid his recovery from a groin strain. Robert Schanbel, who left the Bracknell game due to injury would also miss this game.
First Period: This was going to be a physical game, MK have a big squad and they use their size and strength well in their game plan. With Jorge in net for the Phoenix the home side had to work hard in defence to protect their young backup. Throughout the period the plan seemed to work and it was the Phoenix who had the majority of chances. With Stephen Wall in goal those chances were not close to scoring sadly, that man is immense in goal! MK did carve out their own chances but the Phoenix were able to limit those chances to long shots and, were fortunate MK's shooting was a little off. The first period ended with no goals and, if you can believe it, with the Phoenix putting 25 shots on Wall while Jorge faced 3!
Second Period: The second continued much like the first but with MK ramping up their physicality and coming more into the game. The hits really were increasing in ferocity. There were some lovely centre ice hits from both teams and, despite some calls by my fellow Phoenix faithful I thought, for the most part, they were clean. The second followed the same pattern, big hits, shots reigning in on Wall and Jorge more than equal in the Phoenix net, so it will be no surprise to you there were no goals scored in the second period either.
Third Period: With the game now coming down to one 20 minute session the stakes were high now, the first to score would, more than likely, win the game. So the hits got harder and the chances more important. 10 minutes passed with some entertaining hockey but a big lack of goals. The duck was finally broken at 52min 34sec when Psurny got in close on Wall and managed to lift the puck over his shoulder to light the lamp and give the Phoenix the lead. MK had to press now but were still not getting close. Either through good hard defending, Jorge being up to the task or the shots not being good enough. Into the last minute and both teams called time out's and, with the puck in the Phoenix zone, Wall went for the bench. The puck was sent up ice into MK's zone with Flaten in pursuit, we got there and centred for the on rushing Archer to tap in the ENG at 59min 12sec. Giving the home side a 2-0 win!
Verdict: A hard fought win for the Phoenix and a 4 point weekend. MK games are always tough so each win is even more sweet. The past weekend saw two wins for El-Hage and a finale for Scott McKenzie. The latter having his name sung for the last two mins of regulation and a standing O in centre ice. Scott will be missed but the team moves on. The win was also important in getting the momentum back and ensuring we don' get left behind in the race for the EPL title.
Attendance: A good one in the Ice Dome, MK always bring one of the larger away followings to the Ice Dome, i'll guess at 1,100 in the Ice Dome
Phoenix 2 MK 0 - Phoenix Article
Bees 3 Phoenix 5 - Phoenix Article
Bees 3 Phoenix 5 - Bees Article
Who knows the reasons for his leaving but, all his work and efforts while pulling on the Phoenix jersey were appreciated by us fans and, I hope we get to see him lace up his boots for the Phoenix in the future!
MK are the latest visitors to the Ice Dome and always provide a feisty opponent. They have a wily mind in Nick Poole and EPL veteran Nicky Chinn, MK are a team that is run on a tight ship and will always compete and give you a hard time. That being said I would always expect the Phoenix to close out a win on home ice to MK, famous last words and all that! Early team news for the Phoenix. Steve Fone, who sat out the previous nights win in Bracknell would also sit out this game to aid his recovery from a groin strain. Robert Schanbel, who left the Bracknell game due to injury would also miss this game.
First Period: This was going to be a physical game, MK have a big squad and they use their size and strength well in their game plan. With Jorge in net for the Phoenix the home side had to work hard in defence to protect their young backup. Throughout the period the plan seemed to work and it was the Phoenix who had the majority of chances. With Stephen Wall in goal those chances were not close to scoring sadly, that man is immense in goal! MK did carve out their own chances but the Phoenix were able to limit those chances to long shots and, were fortunate MK's shooting was a little off. The first period ended with no goals and, if you can believe it, with the Phoenix putting 25 shots on Wall while Jorge faced 3!
Second Period: The second continued much like the first but with MK ramping up their physicality and coming more into the game. The hits really were increasing in ferocity. There were some lovely centre ice hits from both teams and, despite some calls by my fellow Phoenix faithful I thought, for the most part, they were clean. The second followed the same pattern, big hits, shots reigning in on Wall and Jorge more than equal in the Phoenix net, so it will be no surprise to you there were no goals scored in the second period either.
Third Period: With the game now coming down to one 20 minute session the stakes were high now, the first to score would, more than likely, win the game. So the hits got harder and the chances more important. 10 minutes passed with some entertaining hockey but a big lack of goals. The duck was finally broken at 52min 34sec when Psurny got in close on Wall and managed to lift the puck over his shoulder to light the lamp and give the Phoenix the lead. MK had to press now but were still not getting close. Either through good hard defending, Jorge being up to the task or the shots not being good enough. Into the last minute and both teams called time out's and, with the puck in the Phoenix zone, Wall went for the bench. The puck was sent up ice into MK's zone with Flaten in pursuit, we got there and centred for the on rushing Archer to tap in the ENG at 59min 12sec. Giving the home side a 2-0 win!
Verdict: A hard fought win for the Phoenix and a 4 point weekend. MK games are always tough so each win is even more sweet. The past weekend saw two wins for El-Hage and a finale for Scott McKenzie. The latter having his name sung for the last two mins of regulation and a standing O in centre ice. Scott will be missed but the team moves on. The win was also important in getting the momentum back and ensuring we don' get left behind in the race for the EPL title.
Attendance: A good one in the Ice Dome, MK always bring one of the larger away followings to the Ice Dome, i'll guess at 1,100 in the Ice Dome
Phoenix 2 MK 0 - Phoenix Article
Bees 3 Phoenix 5 - Phoenix Article
Bees 3 Phoenix 5 - Bees Article
Sunday, 9 December 2012
Phoenix v Slough Jets 2nd December Game Review
The weekend just gone was the second tough one in a row. Saturday saw the Phoenix travel down to EPL leaders Basingstoke Bison. Any game against the Bison is tough, especially as the points are vital to the league campaign. For the Phoenix, it would be another disappointing result, another loss to the Bison which, very much, puts them in the driving seat for the EPL league title. Following up that game was a home game versus the Slough Jets. The Phoenix were without Tom Duggan for this one as he rested a concussion injury sustained in Basingstoke.
First Period: The Phoenix opened up the period and looked to be in good form. The early chances fell to the home side and Slough were restricted to the odd chance here or there. The first goal came for the home side as Ciaran Long lit the lampt after 7min 43sec. The dominance continued and the Phoenix were looking good at this stage. That being said the Jets did look to up their work rate and, as most EPL fans know they have some potent scorers! Phoenix doubled their lead through Flaten at 13min 12sec and looked comfortable at the time. But, dont underestimate the Jets. Koulikov, a loved figure in the Ice Dome, would return to haunt the Phoenix as he slotted home a lovely goal at 17min 24sec to make sure the Phoenix didn't have it all their own way in the first period.
Second Period: Slough changed their game plan in the second and began to flood centre ice. This disrupted the Phoenix play and began to level out the game. With the game going flat, the atmosphere dropped too! The Phoenix still had the possession but couldn't do allot with it and, the Jets were not offering much either. With the period winding down that man, Darius Pliskauskas, one guy I've always wanted the Phoenix to sign, achieved parity for the Jets. Levelling the scores with just 36sec left in the second period.
Third Period: A period much like the second, nothing inspiring on the ice lead to the age old sporting conundrum. Do the players need the crowd to lift them or, should the players be lifting the crowd? Either way the third was a pretty dire affair in terms of the hockey on the ice. Nearing the end of the game Archer latched on to a long pass and raced clear to score past Rockman at 53min 47sec. The game continued and the Phoenix would give up another late goal in the period. Bakrlik getting the equaliser at 59min 13sec sending the game into overtime.
Overtime: No goals to settle the game came from the extra session. At this time tension in the crowd started rising quickly as word got round the Bison had lost. An ideal time to make up some ground then!
Penalty Shots: To be honest all bar one of the PS attempts were utterly useless! Bakrlik went last for Slough and scored from a thoughtful attempt. The Phoenix missed their next attempt so Slough got the extra point!
Verdict: Disappointing from the Phoenix. The performance was below par and Slough didn't particularly do much to claim the win outright. But, they took their chances so far do's! For me, it was disappointing to see the guys not take advantage of the game to snap out this little dip the Phoenix are in. We have beaten the Jets in Altrincham before and, with the Bison losing, a win would have been huge. I just hope the point is a step in the right direction!
Attendance: An average crowd in a blumin freezing Ice Dome, so i'll guess at around 1,000 in.
Phoenix 3 Slough 4 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 3 Slough 4 - Jets Article
First Period: The Phoenix opened up the period and looked to be in good form. The early chances fell to the home side and Slough were restricted to the odd chance here or there. The first goal came for the home side as Ciaran Long lit the lampt after 7min 43sec. The dominance continued and the Phoenix were looking good at this stage. That being said the Jets did look to up their work rate and, as most EPL fans know they have some potent scorers! Phoenix doubled their lead through Flaten at 13min 12sec and looked comfortable at the time. But, dont underestimate the Jets. Koulikov, a loved figure in the Ice Dome, would return to haunt the Phoenix as he slotted home a lovely goal at 17min 24sec to make sure the Phoenix didn't have it all their own way in the first period.
Second Period: Slough changed their game plan in the second and began to flood centre ice. This disrupted the Phoenix play and began to level out the game. With the game going flat, the atmosphere dropped too! The Phoenix still had the possession but couldn't do allot with it and, the Jets were not offering much either. With the period winding down that man, Darius Pliskauskas, one guy I've always wanted the Phoenix to sign, achieved parity for the Jets. Levelling the scores with just 36sec left in the second period.
Third Period: A period much like the second, nothing inspiring on the ice lead to the age old sporting conundrum. Do the players need the crowd to lift them or, should the players be lifting the crowd? Either way the third was a pretty dire affair in terms of the hockey on the ice. Nearing the end of the game Archer latched on to a long pass and raced clear to score past Rockman at 53min 47sec. The game continued and the Phoenix would give up another late goal in the period. Bakrlik getting the equaliser at 59min 13sec sending the game into overtime.
Overtime: No goals to settle the game came from the extra session. At this time tension in the crowd started rising quickly as word got round the Bison had lost. An ideal time to make up some ground then!
Penalty Shots: To be honest all bar one of the PS attempts were utterly useless! Bakrlik went last for Slough and scored from a thoughtful attempt. The Phoenix missed their next attempt so Slough got the extra point!
Verdict: Disappointing from the Phoenix. The performance was below par and Slough didn't particularly do much to claim the win outright. But, they took their chances so far do's! For me, it was disappointing to see the guys not take advantage of the game to snap out this little dip the Phoenix are in. We have beaten the Jets in Altrincham before and, with the Bison losing, a win would have been huge. I just hope the point is a step in the right direction!
Attendance: An average crowd in a blumin freezing Ice Dome, so i'll guess at around 1,000 in.
Phoenix 3 Slough 4 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 3 Slough 4 - Jets Article
Thursday, 29 November 2012
Phoenix v Basingstoke Bison 25th November Game Review
A tough weekend for the Phoenix saw them
make the trip south to Swindon and then welcome the Basingstoke Bison
to the Ice Dome. Swindon has never been an easy place for the Phoenix to
go and saturday saw them experience a 4-2 loss, despite taking the lead
twice. With the Bison next up, and with how they play in mind, this could
be the first null point weekend!
First Period: As the game got underway the farmiliar patter emerged, Phoenix with the puck, most of the possession but restricted to long shots and no whiff of goal. The Bison were employing the same tactic as their last visit to the Ice Dome and, it was working a treat. The Bison sat back to defend and rely on Lyle, while looking to hit the Phoenix on the breakout. It worked so well that the Bison took the lead after just 1min 22sec when Owen got his first of the night. The Bison extended their lead after 15min 53sec when Owen scored again on the powerplay.
Second Period: The second continued as the first had left off, the Phoenix far outshooting the Bison but not getting in Lyle's face of causing him much trouble. Around the halfway mark of the period the Bison scored a lovely breakaway goal with Csesky tapping in to an open net after 30min 29sec. For me, that was game over. It was a beautiful goal and I couldn't see the Phoenix getting 4 to win. Even when Flaten finally got the Phoenix on the board at 36min 3xsec it still looked a tall order.
Third Period: The Phoenix finally changed tactic in the third and began get in Lyle's face and upset him. This period would also see a very controversial incident which has been talked about on twitter and the forums for the past few days. Anyway, the game, the Phoenix got their second of the game through Psurny at 50min 28sec which got them within one but, the Bison hit right back. At 50min 42sec Rand extended their lead to 4-2 and looked to have secured the points. Phoenix hopes were lifted when James Archer got their third at 54min 26sec and the Phoenix kept up the pressure to force OT. With around a minute to go the Phoenix thought they had scored, the puck was in the light was on and yet the ref washed it off. Many in the stands, myself included, saw Lyle kick the net off its moorings after the puck had gone in. I know there are plenty who will disagree but I know what I saw. The Phoenix had been robbed of a perfectly good goal and, a disgraceful action by Lyle. A keeper I had much respect for! Anyway the goal did not stand and the game ended 4-3 Bison.
Verdict: For two periods the Bison played as expected and were heading for another comfortable win. The third period the Phoenix finally got through to Lyle and started to make it count. On balance, however, the Bison deserved the win, but not the fasion they got it! Lyle disgraced them sunday night, that is sure! Putting that aside, it is difficult to look past the Bison for EPL winners this year, while there are better skater teams in the EPL in Lyle they have a goalie on another level. For me, now, it is their title to loose.
Attendance: A decent, but not the biggest, crown in the Ice Dome. I'll say 1,100 in.
Phoenix 3 Bison 4 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 3 Bison 4 - Bison Article
First Period: As the game got underway the farmiliar patter emerged, Phoenix with the puck, most of the possession but restricted to long shots and no whiff of goal. The Bison were employing the same tactic as their last visit to the Ice Dome and, it was working a treat. The Bison sat back to defend and rely on Lyle, while looking to hit the Phoenix on the breakout. It worked so well that the Bison took the lead after just 1min 22sec when Owen got his first of the night. The Bison extended their lead after 15min 53sec when Owen scored again on the powerplay.
Second Period: The second continued as the first had left off, the Phoenix far outshooting the Bison but not getting in Lyle's face of causing him much trouble. Around the halfway mark of the period the Bison scored a lovely breakaway goal with Csesky tapping in to an open net after 30min 29sec. For me, that was game over. It was a beautiful goal and I couldn't see the Phoenix getting 4 to win. Even when Flaten finally got the Phoenix on the board at 36min 3xsec it still looked a tall order.
Third Period: The Phoenix finally changed tactic in the third and began get in Lyle's face and upset him. This period would also see a very controversial incident which has been talked about on twitter and the forums for the past few days. Anyway, the game, the Phoenix got their second of the game through Psurny at 50min 28sec which got them within one but, the Bison hit right back. At 50min 42sec Rand extended their lead to 4-2 and looked to have secured the points. Phoenix hopes were lifted when James Archer got their third at 54min 26sec and the Phoenix kept up the pressure to force OT. With around a minute to go the Phoenix thought they had scored, the puck was in the light was on and yet the ref washed it off. Many in the stands, myself included, saw Lyle kick the net off its moorings after the puck had gone in. I know there are plenty who will disagree but I know what I saw. The Phoenix had been robbed of a perfectly good goal and, a disgraceful action by Lyle. A keeper I had much respect for! Anyway the goal did not stand and the game ended 4-3 Bison.
Verdict: For two periods the Bison played as expected and were heading for another comfortable win. The third period the Phoenix finally got through to Lyle and started to make it count. On balance, however, the Bison deserved the win, but not the fasion they got it! Lyle disgraced them sunday night, that is sure! Putting that aside, it is difficult to look past the Bison for EPL winners this year, while there are better skater teams in the EPL in Lyle they have a goalie on another level. For me, now, it is their title to loose.
Attendance: A decent, but not the biggest, crown in the Ice Dome. I'll say 1,100 in.
Phoenix 3 Bison 4 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 3 Bison 4 - Bison Article
Monday, 26 November 2012
Phoenix v Swindon Wildcats 18th November Game Review
After the Phoenix win against the Phantoms
they had two away games to follow. The first, away to Telford in their
re-furbished rink which The Angry Budgie attended. That was a disappointing
loss and one that showed the effect of losing Tony Hand to Team GB. The
second away game was to re-visit the scene of the Phoenix earlier 8-2 demolition
at MK. Thankfully this visit would be more fruitful for the Phoenix, winning as they did, 4-1. The Wildcats were the visitors to the Ice Dome last sunday
and, so far, the Phoenix were enjoying some good form against the Wildcats.
Hopefully that would continue!
First Period: With Tony Hand back in the line-up the Phoenix came out firing and set about the Wildcats from the first puck drop. Again the Phoenix would get an early goal and they would dominate the opening session. The first goal came after just 1min 47sec when Pozivil got his goal. Shortly after Michael Psurny doubled the Phoenix lead at 3min 50 and Ciaran Long would cap an explosive first period with the Phoenix third goal at 11min 10sec. Even the most ardent Wildcats fan, after watching that first period, would say the game was done and dusted.
Second Period: That assumption, especially this season in the EPL, is a dangerous one. The Wildcats, after what must have been a harsh intermission, found their legs and began to work their way back into the game. Tom Duggan would extend the Phoenix lead to 4 goals to 0 at 23min 36sec with a lovely shot through the 5 hole. I don't know if it was the Phoenix easing off, but the Wildcats came roaring back and completely owned the last 10 minutes of the period. Kapicka got their first at 31min 58sec, then Jones on the powerplay at 37min 20sec and Kapicka got his second at 38min 25sec when he pounced on a Boothroyd mistake to bring the Cats to within one.
Third Period: With the way the game had gone in the back end of the second period it would be no surprise that the Wildcats tied the game in the final session. The Phoenix were still creating chances but the uncertainty in the Wildcats D from the first period had well and truly gone. The Wildcats got their deserved game leveler at 52min 07sec when Kapicka got his hattrick goal. The Phoenix discipline in the third period was poor, mistakes were creeping their way in and were capped by the Phoenix taking a too-many-men penalty with 10sec to go. Thus handing Swindon the advantage going into overtime.
Overtime: Thankfully the Wildcats could not take advantage and as soon as the Phoenix were back up to full strength they camped out in the Swindon zone. Working the puck round it found Boothroyd free on the far point in so much space, he had time to steady the puck and fire in the game winner, timed at 62min 23sec.
Verdict: On the whole the Phoenix dominated the first, but a lack of concentration and a resurgent Wildcats made the second and third tough to watch. Especially as the game should have been over after the first. Great to get the win and keep pace with the Bison but, worrying to see Fone laboring towards the end and Pozivil who didn't ice for the third period. A week off will hopefully do wonders!
Attendance: Another good crowd in the Dome, the sequence of home wins doing well to bring people back. I'll say 1,150 in.
Phoenix 5 Swindon 4 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 5 Swindon 4 - Wildcats Article
First Period: With Tony Hand back in the line-up the Phoenix came out firing and set about the Wildcats from the first puck drop. Again the Phoenix would get an early goal and they would dominate the opening session. The first goal came after just 1min 47sec when Pozivil got his goal. Shortly after Michael Psurny doubled the Phoenix lead at 3min 50 and Ciaran Long would cap an explosive first period with the Phoenix third goal at 11min 10sec. Even the most ardent Wildcats fan, after watching that first period, would say the game was done and dusted.
Second Period: That assumption, especially this season in the EPL, is a dangerous one. The Wildcats, after what must have been a harsh intermission, found their legs and began to work their way back into the game. Tom Duggan would extend the Phoenix lead to 4 goals to 0 at 23min 36sec with a lovely shot through the 5 hole. I don't know if it was the Phoenix easing off, but the Wildcats came roaring back and completely owned the last 10 minutes of the period. Kapicka got their first at 31min 58sec, then Jones on the powerplay at 37min 20sec and Kapicka got his second at 38min 25sec when he pounced on a Boothroyd mistake to bring the Cats to within one.
Third Period: With the way the game had gone in the back end of the second period it would be no surprise that the Wildcats tied the game in the final session. The Phoenix were still creating chances but the uncertainty in the Wildcats D from the first period had well and truly gone. The Wildcats got their deserved game leveler at 52min 07sec when Kapicka got his hattrick goal. The Phoenix discipline in the third period was poor, mistakes were creeping their way in and were capped by the Phoenix taking a too-many-men penalty with 10sec to go. Thus handing Swindon the advantage going into overtime.
Overtime: Thankfully the Wildcats could not take advantage and as soon as the Phoenix were back up to full strength they camped out in the Swindon zone. Working the puck round it found Boothroyd free on the far point in so much space, he had time to steady the puck and fire in the game winner, timed at 62min 23sec.
Verdict: On the whole the Phoenix dominated the first, but a lack of concentration and a resurgent Wildcats made the second and third tough to watch. Especially as the game should have been over after the first. Great to get the win and keep pace with the Bison but, worrying to see Fone laboring towards the end and Pozivil who didn't ice for the third period. A week off will hopefully do wonders!
Attendance: Another good crowd in the Dome, the sequence of home wins doing well to bring people back. I'll say 1,150 in.
Phoenix 5 Swindon 4 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 5 Swindon 4 - Wildcats Article
Thursday, 22 November 2012
Phoenix v Peterborough Phantoms 10th November Game Review
The weekend just gone saw the Phoenix play
in Altrincham on a rare saturday night fixture before travelling down to
Shropshire to take on the Tigers sunday. A big crowd descended on the Ice
Dome with hopes of a Phoenix victory, going into the game the Phoenix were
without Tony Hand who was at the helm of Team GB in Japan.
First Period: The game opened up with the, Tony Handless Phoenix, taking the bull by the horns and exploding out the traps. Within the first 30seconds the Phoenix were on the board and ahead in the game. Flaten with the first score after just 27 seconds. Sometimes early goals are good, sometimes they are not. The early goal settled the Phoenix as they set about the Phantoms. This Phantoms team work hard and in Lauko, much like his time in Bisonland, they have a player who seems to score regularly against the Phoenix. Lauko pulled the Phantoms level after 14min 05sec. No further score and the teams headed into the intermission level at 1-1.
Second Period: The Phoenix began to take control in the second period. The next goal of the game came for the Phoenix at 21min 04sec when Robert Schnabel took a bullet of a shot from the blue line to give the Phoenix the lead, the big Czech D man was at it again when he got his second at 23min 12sec.. With 5 minutes to go in the period the Phoenix extended their lead through the in form Andy McKinnie when he got the Phoenix 3rd goal at 35min 46sec. End of the period scores on the doors were 4-1 Phoenix.
Third Period: Things went a bit mental in the third period, the Phoenix began to loose focus and the Phantoms slowly fought their way back into the game. McKinnie got his second of the game about two minutes into the period to make it 5-1 Phoenix and here began the Phantoms fight back. While on the powerplay Ferrara scored at 44min 57sec. The most frustrating thing about the goal was, the Phoenix had failed so far on their PP and, as soon as Peterborough got a PP opportunity, they scored. The Phoenix got one to add to their tally from Long at 48min 57sec to make it 6-2, but this sparked the Phantoms into life. 3 un-answered goals brought the Phantoms within one goal of the Phoenix. Glowa got the Phantoms 3rd at 45min 33sec then Carlon reduced the deficit to two at 50min 36sec. Then, with less than 5 minutes to go the Phantoms ensured some 'squeaky bum time' when they grabbed number 5 at 55min 14sec when Glowa got another. This goal incensed the crowd and Schnabel. Prior to the goal Ciaran Long laid a lovely hip check on a Phantoms player but, was called for clipping. Schanbel had words and then, when the Phantoms scored, lost it and got himself ejected on an abuse of official call. With the clock ticking down the Phantoms pressed for the equaliser but, the Phoenix would grab the last goal of the game. James Archer getting a just reward at 59min 18sec.
Verdict: Not the best of games for the Phoenix, at times they were brilliant, at times they were stupid. Schanbel, as the most experienced guy on the ice for the Phoenix let himself down during the last 5 minutes which could have hurt us badly. The Phantoms are a tricky opponent and the Phoenix coped well but, did look to miss Tony's calming influence at times. It's quite noticeable how much focus he brings to the dressing room.
Attendance: Very good crowd for a saturday night game, i'll guess at around 1,200 in.
Phoenix 7 Peterborough 5 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 7 Peterborough 5 - Phantoms Article
First Period: The game opened up with the, Tony Handless Phoenix, taking the bull by the horns and exploding out the traps. Within the first 30seconds the Phoenix were on the board and ahead in the game. Flaten with the first score after just 27 seconds. Sometimes early goals are good, sometimes they are not. The early goal settled the Phoenix as they set about the Phantoms. This Phantoms team work hard and in Lauko, much like his time in Bisonland, they have a player who seems to score regularly against the Phoenix. Lauko pulled the Phantoms level after 14min 05sec. No further score and the teams headed into the intermission level at 1-1.
Second Period: The Phoenix began to take control in the second period. The next goal of the game came for the Phoenix at 21min 04sec when Robert Schnabel took a bullet of a shot from the blue line to give the Phoenix the lead, the big Czech D man was at it again when he got his second at 23min 12sec.. With 5 minutes to go in the period the Phoenix extended their lead through the in form Andy McKinnie when he got the Phoenix 3rd goal at 35min 46sec. End of the period scores on the doors were 4-1 Phoenix.
Third Period: Things went a bit mental in the third period, the Phoenix began to loose focus and the Phantoms slowly fought their way back into the game. McKinnie got his second of the game about two minutes into the period to make it 5-1 Phoenix and here began the Phantoms fight back. While on the powerplay Ferrara scored at 44min 57sec. The most frustrating thing about the goal was, the Phoenix had failed so far on their PP and, as soon as Peterborough got a PP opportunity, they scored. The Phoenix got one to add to their tally from Long at 48min 57sec to make it 6-2, but this sparked the Phantoms into life. 3 un-answered goals brought the Phantoms within one goal of the Phoenix. Glowa got the Phantoms 3rd at 45min 33sec then Carlon reduced the deficit to two at 50min 36sec. Then, with less than 5 minutes to go the Phantoms ensured some 'squeaky bum time' when they grabbed number 5 at 55min 14sec when Glowa got another. This goal incensed the crowd and Schnabel. Prior to the goal Ciaran Long laid a lovely hip check on a Phantoms player but, was called for clipping. Schanbel had words and then, when the Phantoms scored, lost it and got himself ejected on an abuse of official call. With the clock ticking down the Phantoms pressed for the equaliser but, the Phoenix would grab the last goal of the game. James Archer getting a just reward at 59min 18sec.
Verdict: Not the best of games for the Phoenix, at times they were brilliant, at times they were stupid. Schanbel, as the most experienced guy on the ice for the Phoenix let himself down during the last 5 minutes which could have hurt us badly. The Phantoms are a tricky opponent and the Phoenix coped well but, did look to miss Tony's calming influence at times. It's quite noticeable how much focus he brings to the dressing room.
Attendance: Very good crowd for a saturday night game, i'll guess at around 1,200 in.
Phoenix 7 Peterborough 5 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 7 Peterborough 5 - Phantoms Article
Saturday, 3 November 2012
Phoenix v Bracknell Bees 28th October Game Review
Halloween weekend saw the Phoenix take
on the Slough Jets and the Bracknell Bees. My thoughts going into the weekend
would be, a tough game down in Slough and a win at home against the Bees.
The Phoenix surprised many people with a come-from-behind 7-5 victory over
the Jets, including scoring 4 un-answered goals to take the win. This set
the weekend off to the best possible start!
The home game, while on paper the Phoenix should win, would not be easy. The Bees still have Smital and Masa, two of the best players in the EPL and have increased their muscle this year, early season reports have the Bees down as a much tougher team to play.
First Period: The game got underway and the Phoenix took control. Following on from a two goal/1 assist performance down in Slough, Andy McKinnie continued his recent scoring streak by netting the Phoenix first goal at 6min 57sec. McKinnie's goal capping a lovely flowing move up the ice from the Phoenix. Throughout this first period I was surprised by how poor the Bees were, those early season reports had obviously inflated my expectations of them. The Phoenix continued to dominate and the second goal was inevitable. The face off was down in the Bees zone, the puck went back to Schabel on the point who let rip with a gorgeous slap shot to the top right corner, lovely goal. The Phoenix finished the period strong with Psurny getting their third with just 10sec left on the clock.
Second Period: The Bees regrouped during the interval, it showed too! The second period was much more of a contest, the Bees were working harder and competing stronger for each possession. In fact it was the Bees who scored the next goal. A great bit of passing opened up some space and the puck found Lamey ghosting in on the back post to slot the puck home. At this point the Phoenix looked like they were playing in neutral and really needed to engage gear to win the game. Thankfully they did, got the next goal, to restore their three goal advantage. Ciaran Long scoring next at 32min 40sec. That would be the last scoring of the period, end of the 2nd 4-1 Phoenix.
Third Period: Just 20 minutes to go and the Phoenix came out strong. The second period resistance by the Bees seemed to disappear. The Phoenix controlled the puck and a blistering two goal salvo killed the game off. Psurny got his second of the night at 48min 19sec and, just 16sec later Richie Bentham capped an impressive game for himself with the Phoenix sixth goal at 48min 35sec. With the score now 6-1 to the Phoenix the Bees called a timeout and decided to replace Annettes for Ambler, at the same time the Phoenix gave Fone his rest and brough El-Hage in for the remaining 10minutes or so. With the game winding down only one further goal came, and that was Psurny's hattrick goal. The final goal of the game timed at 53min 54sec.
Verdict: Given me impressions of the Bees, coming into the game, I was surprised by how far they fell below my expectations. The Bees we good, but I had the impression they were a tough cookie to beat this year. Masa and Smital, when they turn it on, are still a class act. But they didn't show enough sunday night at all. The Phoenix, on the other hand, were very impressive. In control for the majority of the game each player played well. Fone will be disappointed to loose the SO but very happy with the win.
Attendance: A good crowd in the dome, with some in fancy dress - including myself! I'll say around 1,100 in the Ice Dome.
Slough 5 Phoenix 7 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 7 Bees 1 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 7 Bees 1 - Bees Article
Phoenix 7 Bees 1 - MEN Article
The home game, while on paper the Phoenix should win, would not be easy. The Bees still have Smital and Masa, two of the best players in the EPL and have increased their muscle this year, early season reports have the Bees down as a much tougher team to play.
First Period: The game got underway and the Phoenix took control. Following on from a two goal/1 assist performance down in Slough, Andy McKinnie continued his recent scoring streak by netting the Phoenix first goal at 6min 57sec. McKinnie's goal capping a lovely flowing move up the ice from the Phoenix. Throughout this first period I was surprised by how poor the Bees were, those early season reports had obviously inflated my expectations of them. The Phoenix continued to dominate and the second goal was inevitable. The face off was down in the Bees zone, the puck went back to Schabel on the point who let rip with a gorgeous slap shot to the top right corner, lovely goal. The Phoenix finished the period strong with Psurny getting their third with just 10sec left on the clock.
Second Period: The Bees regrouped during the interval, it showed too! The second period was much more of a contest, the Bees were working harder and competing stronger for each possession. In fact it was the Bees who scored the next goal. A great bit of passing opened up some space and the puck found Lamey ghosting in on the back post to slot the puck home. At this point the Phoenix looked like they were playing in neutral and really needed to engage gear to win the game. Thankfully they did, got the next goal, to restore their three goal advantage. Ciaran Long scoring next at 32min 40sec. That would be the last scoring of the period, end of the 2nd 4-1 Phoenix.
Third Period: Just 20 minutes to go and the Phoenix came out strong. The second period resistance by the Bees seemed to disappear. The Phoenix controlled the puck and a blistering two goal salvo killed the game off. Psurny got his second of the night at 48min 19sec and, just 16sec later Richie Bentham capped an impressive game for himself with the Phoenix sixth goal at 48min 35sec. With the score now 6-1 to the Phoenix the Bees called a timeout and decided to replace Annettes for Ambler, at the same time the Phoenix gave Fone his rest and brough El-Hage in for the remaining 10minutes or so. With the game winding down only one further goal came, and that was Psurny's hattrick goal. The final goal of the game timed at 53min 54sec.
Verdict: Given me impressions of the Bees, coming into the game, I was surprised by how far they fell below my expectations. The Bees we good, but I had the impression they were a tough cookie to beat this year. Masa and Smital, when they turn it on, are still a class act. But they didn't show enough sunday night at all. The Phoenix, on the other hand, were very impressive. In control for the majority of the game each player played well. Fone will be disappointed to loose the SO but very happy with the win.
Attendance: A good crowd in the dome, with some in fancy dress - including myself! I'll say around 1,100 in the Ice Dome.
Slough 5 Phoenix 7 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 7 Bees 1 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 7 Bees 1 - Bees Article
Phoenix 7 Bees 1 - MEN Article
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