Sorry for the big big delay in getting this game review to you all, there's no other excuse than me just being
lazy!
Anyhoo, Sunday saw the Jets come to the Ice Dome boosted by an expanding ex-Phoenix contingent, we all know Koulikov is the player-coach. In recent weeks Pavel Gomeniunk and Ciaran Long. Ciaran, a long time fan favourite of the Phoenix, had secured a new job and meant he had to leave. Big big loss for the Phoenix!
Sunday night, a big crowd and a difficult opponent, all the makings for a decent game of hockey!
First Period: Slough are a tricky team to play, seasoned EPL veterans they know every trick of the EPL. Certainly a team who enjoy the dark arts of the game. The Phoenix have, of late, been struggling with some up and down games. The first 20mins of the game the Phoenix managed to look settled and take control of the game. The first goal of the game came at 6min 04sec when Psurny scored, Barri McKenzie scored a lovely goal to double the Phoenix lead at 10min 15sec.
Second Period: Things went a bit mental in the second period, the usual Phoenix second period slump didn't happen. Slough had to come out and press the Phoenix hard. The ex Phoenix contingent would lead the fight back. Early in the second period Pavel Gomeniuk riffled a shot in from the blue line at 22min 40sec and, less than 3minutes later Ciaran Long popped up to tie the game. His goal coming at 25min 11sec. This fight back woke the Phoenix, and in a spectacular 5 minute period the Phoenix took back the game. Just after the half hour make Psurny stepped up and scored his second of the game at 32min 30sec. Ondrej Pozivil got the next goal at 36min 45sec, not a regular on the score sheet but he took his goal very well. James Archer got the Phoenix 5th goal at 37min 18sec and capped the Phoenix explosion in the second period.
Third Period: The Phoenix were exerting some great control over the game, Slough really racked up the dirty chippy play in the third period. In fact, I don't think iv'e seen a dirtier team in the EPL, they are masters at it! But, they get away with it, the EPL ref's just don't call any of it! The third period saw a few more goals, all of them on the powerplay. A sign of the ref's actually calling stuff. First up, Pozivil got his second of the game at 41min 41sec. Then Ciaran Long got his second against the Phoenix at 49min 16sec and, finally, Luke Boothroyd or, #bootherscoringmachine got the final goal at 52min 45sec. The Phoenix 7th goal capping a really fine performance from the Phoenix.
Verdict: A much needed win for the home team and valuable points against a rival and a competing team at the top of the table. The returning Phoenix boy's played damn hard and Ciaran will be happy with his performance but not the team. It was great to see him back in the Ice Dome, even if he was wearing the wrong colours!
Attendance: Like I said at the top a good crowd in the Ice Dome, i'll guess at 1,200 in the Ice Dome.
Phoenix 7 Slough 3 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 7 Slough 3 - Jets Article
Sunday, 17 February 2013
Saturday, 2 February 2013
Phoenix v Bracknell Bees 26th January Game Review
The EPL quest continues for the Phoenix with a double weekend versus the Bracknell Bees. Bracknell, like Peterborough the week before had yet to find a win on Altrincham Ice. I just hope that the Bees don't get that win! So well trudged off to the Ice Dome hoping for better fortunes for our Phoenix team!
First Period: With El-Hage once again backstopping the Phoenix play got under way with some early chances for both sides. Perhaps, learning from previous visits, the Bees set their stall out early to work hard and protect Ambler in goal. This meant the Phoenix had allot of possession but no clear cut chances on goal. Shots were getting through, but none good enough to test him. In some ways opposition clubs have figures out a good defencive setup when playing in Altrincham. The period progressed and the Phoenix began to get frustrated. The Bees offered little going forward other than Masa/Smital but the Phoenix own poor play wasn't helping. Sloppy passing and some of the most god awful play on the powerplay began to get the home fans worried.
Second Period: With a bit of concentration the Phoenix could well take the game but Bracknell proved they were a much improved team versus the one that got hammered at the Ice Dome previously. No matter how hard they tried the Phoenix were below par and nothing was happening. Bracknell then, over a 4 minute period, stole the game. A perfect example of a team weathering the storm only then to take the few chances presented to them. A couple of sloppy passes turned over the puck and, at 22min 56sec Smital scored the first goal for the visitors. Their second came at 26min 33sec through Martin Masa, in truth both of Bracknell's goals were brilliantly worked and well taken. The Phoenix huffed and puffed both no goals came for the rest of the period.
Third Period: With Bracknell two ahead the tension level rose in the Ice Dome as the Phoenix struggled more and more. Frustration in the stands was evident as the home fans feared another result like the Peterborough one the previous weekend. They tried and tried but nothing was working, as the period wore on it became more and more obvious the Phoenix were not going to score. So the game ended with the Phoenix suffering a poor home loss.
Verdict: A second poor poor performance from the Phoenix in a row, nothing got going. The passing was poor the powerplay I know you will have heard but, the Phoenix powerplay is beyond awful and, I wouldn't be surprised if its the least successful in the EPL. When Tony is on the ice its slow, predictable and doesn't work. The Phoenix were out of idea's and it showed. For me, the silence come the end of the game said it all, I don't think the fans could believe what they had just watched. Credit to the Bees though, they must have hurt after their lost last time in Altrincham, changed their play and got the result.
Attendance: A few big groups in, which I doubt we will see again sadly, I'll guess at 1,100 in the Ice Dome.
Phoenix 0 Bracknell 2 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 0 Bracknell 2 - Bees Article
Almost as if to right the wrongs of saturday nights game, the Phoenix travelled down to Bracknell for the return fixture and, this time, skated away with a 3-1 victory.
Bees 1 Phoenix 3 - Phoenix Article
Bees 1 Phoenix 3 - Bees Article
Bees 1 Phoenix 3 - Cheshire Today
Bees 1 Phoenix 3 - Bolton News
First Period: With El-Hage once again backstopping the Phoenix play got under way with some early chances for both sides. Perhaps, learning from previous visits, the Bees set their stall out early to work hard and protect Ambler in goal. This meant the Phoenix had allot of possession but no clear cut chances on goal. Shots were getting through, but none good enough to test him. In some ways opposition clubs have figures out a good defencive setup when playing in Altrincham. The period progressed and the Phoenix began to get frustrated. The Bees offered little going forward other than Masa/Smital but the Phoenix own poor play wasn't helping. Sloppy passing and some of the most god awful play on the powerplay began to get the home fans worried.
Second Period: With a bit of concentration the Phoenix could well take the game but Bracknell proved they were a much improved team versus the one that got hammered at the Ice Dome previously. No matter how hard they tried the Phoenix were below par and nothing was happening. Bracknell then, over a 4 minute period, stole the game. A perfect example of a team weathering the storm only then to take the few chances presented to them. A couple of sloppy passes turned over the puck and, at 22min 56sec Smital scored the first goal for the visitors. Their second came at 26min 33sec through Martin Masa, in truth both of Bracknell's goals were brilliantly worked and well taken. The Phoenix huffed and puffed both no goals came for the rest of the period.
Third Period: With Bracknell two ahead the tension level rose in the Ice Dome as the Phoenix struggled more and more. Frustration in the stands was evident as the home fans feared another result like the Peterborough one the previous weekend. They tried and tried but nothing was working, as the period wore on it became more and more obvious the Phoenix were not going to score. So the game ended with the Phoenix suffering a poor home loss.
Verdict: A second poor poor performance from the Phoenix in a row, nothing got going. The passing was poor the powerplay I know you will have heard but, the Phoenix powerplay is beyond awful and, I wouldn't be surprised if its the least successful in the EPL. When Tony is on the ice its slow, predictable and doesn't work. The Phoenix were out of idea's and it showed. For me, the silence come the end of the game said it all, I don't think the fans could believe what they had just watched. Credit to the Bees though, they must have hurt after their lost last time in Altrincham, changed their play and got the result.
Attendance: A few big groups in, which I doubt we will see again sadly, I'll guess at 1,100 in the Ice Dome.
Phoenix 0 Bracknell 2 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 0 Bracknell 2 - Bees Article
Almost as if to right the wrongs of saturday nights game, the Phoenix travelled down to Bracknell for the return fixture and, this time, skated away with a 3-1 victory.
Bees 1 Phoenix 3 - Phoenix Article
Bees 1 Phoenix 3 - Bees Article
Bees 1 Phoenix 3 - Cheshire Today
Bees 1 Phoenix 3 - Bolton News
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Saturday, 26 January 2013
Phoenix v Peterborough Phantoms 20th January Game Review
Last weekend saw the Phoenix take on the Basingstoke Bison and Peterborough Phantoms, two tough games where the Phoenix must try their best to remain on pace with the top two teams in the EPL. The Phoenix have yet to figure out the Bison and saturdays away game didn't see any surprises. The Bison getting the win and the Phoenix seeing Steve Fone injured.
With Fone out of the lineup the Phoenix went into sundays home game versus the Peterborough Phantoms with El-Hage between the pipes. The Phantoms had not previously secured a win on Phoenix ice.
First Period: The game began and both teams we searching each other our during the first few minutes. The first goal did come and, it was the Phantoms who scored it. At 4min 43sec Line had the puck and forced it through on goal, in a stroke of obscene fortune the puck bobbled up and down El-Hage's back and into the goal. If it is clear on Phoenix TV it'll be one of the jammiest goals you will ever see! But hey, they all count! Less than two minutes later the Phoenix were on level terms through Psurny, adding to his impressive tally, the goal timed at 6min 38sec. The game continued and became quite a tight messy affair. Usually the Phoenix are able to take control in home games but, maybe due to tiredness or, more likely, the Phantoms hard work this wasn't the case. One more goal came in the period and it was the Phoenix who scored it, amazingly, on the powerplay! Bentham, this time, scoring at 14min 01sec.
Second Period: The second period continued where the first left off, the game being very tight with neither side able to stamp their authority on it. The Phantoms goal was being peppered with shots, but the Phantoms also had their chances. El-Hage proving to be up to the task so far in the game. Around the halfway mark of the period two goals were scored. The Phantoms were first to level the scores with a goal at 31min 14sec through Graham. Phoenix came back quickly and scored another powerplay goal at 33min exactly through Psurny. No further goals were scored in the second period.
Third Period: The third progressed and both teams began to tire. Peterborough, once again, scored the levelling goal through Glowa at 45min 48sec on a well worked powerplay. With the scores tied both teams tried for the winner but neither could find a way through each goalie. The full 60 mins ended with a tied scoreline.
Overtime: The 4 on 4 period began and the Phoenix quickly went on the powerplay. What followed was a frustrating two minutes for the home faithful as the Phoenix struggled to create a meaningful chance. As the Phantoms returned to full strength Ferrara would break home fan hearts and give the Phantoms their first win in the Ice Dome ever. The winning goal coming at 63min 10sec.
Verdict: First off, well done Peterborough! The Phoenix looked tired and out of ideas at times and, in truth, it was a below par performance. Maybe all the energy was taken during the previous nights game in Basingstoke? Even so the Phoenix should have enough quality to beat the Phantoms on home ice. What makes it even worse, this was another game where the Phoenx could have capitalised on a Bison slip but didn't! A poor game really and one I hope the Phoenix can move on from quickly!
Attendance: A decent crowd in with a fair few groups, i'll guess at 1,100.
Final Thought: Sunday's game was the first where Phoenix fans could purchase finals weekend tickets. To date the Phoenix had an allocation of 322 tickets spread over two blocks. According to the club this was a strict allocation. Tickets were on sale for two intermissions during the game and in that time, 369 were sold. Bearing in mind the Phoenix took over 500 fans to last seasons finals weekend, 322 was never going to be enough! I will be interested to hear how the EPL board meeting goes this week and if Neil has been able to secure more seats! As finals weekend didn't sell out last season, I dont know why clubs are not allocated the number of seats they have previously sold, would seem the simple way of doing things to me!
Phoenix 3 Peterborough 4 AOT - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 3 Peterborough 4 AOT - Phantoms Article
Phoenix 3 Peterborough 4 AOT - MEN Article
With Fone out of the lineup the Phoenix went into sundays home game versus the Peterborough Phantoms with El-Hage between the pipes. The Phantoms had not previously secured a win on Phoenix ice.
First Period: The game began and both teams we searching each other our during the first few minutes. The first goal did come and, it was the Phantoms who scored it. At 4min 43sec Line had the puck and forced it through on goal, in a stroke of obscene fortune the puck bobbled up and down El-Hage's back and into the goal. If it is clear on Phoenix TV it'll be one of the jammiest goals you will ever see! But hey, they all count! Less than two minutes later the Phoenix were on level terms through Psurny, adding to his impressive tally, the goal timed at 6min 38sec. The game continued and became quite a tight messy affair. Usually the Phoenix are able to take control in home games but, maybe due to tiredness or, more likely, the Phantoms hard work this wasn't the case. One more goal came in the period and it was the Phoenix who scored it, amazingly, on the powerplay! Bentham, this time, scoring at 14min 01sec.
Second Period: The second period continued where the first left off, the game being very tight with neither side able to stamp their authority on it. The Phantoms goal was being peppered with shots, but the Phantoms also had their chances. El-Hage proving to be up to the task so far in the game. Around the halfway mark of the period two goals were scored. The Phantoms were first to level the scores with a goal at 31min 14sec through Graham. Phoenix came back quickly and scored another powerplay goal at 33min exactly through Psurny. No further goals were scored in the second period.
Third Period: The third progressed and both teams began to tire. Peterborough, once again, scored the levelling goal through Glowa at 45min 48sec on a well worked powerplay. With the scores tied both teams tried for the winner but neither could find a way through each goalie. The full 60 mins ended with a tied scoreline.
Overtime: The 4 on 4 period began and the Phoenix quickly went on the powerplay. What followed was a frustrating two minutes for the home faithful as the Phoenix struggled to create a meaningful chance. As the Phantoms returned to full strength Ferrara would break home fan hearts and give the Phantoms their first win in the Ice Dome ever. The winning goal coming at 63min 10sec.
Verdict: First off, well done Peterborough! The Phoenix looked tired and out of ideas at times and, in truth, it was a below par performance. Maybe all the energy was taken during the previous nights game in Basingstoke? Even so the Phoenix should have enough quality to beat the Phantoms on home ice. What makes it even worse, this was another game where the Phoenx could have capitalised on a Bison slip but didn't! A poor game really and one I hope the Phoenix can move on from quickly!
Attendance: A decent crowd in with a fair few groups, i'll guess at 1,100.
Final Thought: Sunday's game was the first where Phoenix fans could purchase finals weekend tickets. To date the Phoenix had an allocation of 322 tickets spread over two blocks. According to the club this was a strict allocation. Tickets were on sale for two intermissions during the game and in that time, 369 were sold. Bearing in mind the Phoenix took over 500 fans to last seasons finals weekend, 322 was never going to be enough! I will be interested to hear how the EPL board meeting goes this week and if Neil has been able to secure more seats! As finals weekend didn't sell out last season, I dont know why clubs are not allocated the number of seats they have previously sold, would seem the simple way of doing things to me!
Phoenix 3 Peterborough 4 AOT - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 3 Peterborough 4 AOT - Phantoms Article
Phoenix 3 Peterborough 4 AOT - MEN Article
Saturday, 19 January 2013
Phoenix v Guildford Flames 12th January Game Review
Last weekend, the game up for viewing in
the Ice Dome, was an important one versus the Guildford Flames. A saturday
night game saw a big crowd come to Altrincham, including a large away following,
to watch 1st v 3rd. One thing you can count on is, games against the Flames
are blumin good ones to watch! The game saw the Phoenix at full strength
and we all settled in.
First Period: Right from the off the game exploded into life with some great end to end hockey. No matter which side of the divide you were on, the game was entertaining! Both Lee and Fone in goal were proving up to the task to with some early saves to prevent go ahead goals. The first goal did come, and came for the Phoenix. McKinne was fed the puck down the left wing and, as he entered the Flames zone, unleashed a laser of a shot to Lee's top right corner. Such an accurate shot Lee had no chance! The first goal timed at 14min 54sec. The period continued with both sides pressing, the Phoenix with most of the possession but the Flames with the better quality chances. The Flames are an impressive team to watch, I don't think there is a better team on the transition from defensive zone to attacking opportunity.
Second Period: The second continued as the first left off, but the Phoenix were quick to extend their lead. At 22min 58sec Psurny got his first goal of the night. What happened next was amazing....the Phoenix scored a powerplay goal! Going on the advantage the Phoenix were able to move the puck around the perimeter of the zone with speed. When the puck made it to the right wing it was passed up to Boothroyd who was closing in on Lee, he unleased a lovely slapshot which went straight for the top right corner, timed 30min 46sec. It was right in my eye line and could not have been more accurate even if Crosby tried! Exactly three minutes later the Phoenix did it again, at 33min 46sec the puck began its movement only to find its way to Pozivil's stick for another slapshot and the Phoenix 4th goal. At this point the Flames called a timeout to regroup. Going into the second intermission the Phoenix were 4-0 up but not clear. The Flames are too good to not score!
Third Period: Phoenix got the perfect start in the third period, Psurny grabbed a second goal just 40sec into the session to give the Phoenix an impressive 5-0 advantage. The home faithful were in the stratosphere about a minute later when the home team scored again. At 41min 57sec Flaten fired the puck on the net only for Rick Skeene to put it past his own keeper. I can't remember if it was after the 5th or 6th goal but Guildford changed netminder. With the score now 6-0 the pressure on the Phoenix eased, but Guildford are a team that cannot be counted out. The final goal of the game came for the Flames and, in an effort to atone for his earlier mistake, it was Skeene who scored it, timed 45min 37sec. The rest of the period wound down and the Phoenix secured an impressive victory against the Flames.
Verdict: Brilliant game, brilliant result for the home team and fans. The Flames have hammered the Phoenix down in Guildford more than once so it was nice to dish out the punishment for once! I remember commenting on the Phoenix podcast, when asked about MOM. you couldn't pick out one player who shone, the whole team were excellent. If the Phoenix could re-create that performance every game we would be league champs!
Attendance: As said up at the top it was a good crowd in the Ice Dome, i'll guess at 1,300.
Phoenix 6 Guildford 1 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 6 Guildford 1 - Flames Article
Phoenix 6 Guildford 1 - MEN Article
Phoenix 6 Guildford 1 - Cheshire Today
Telford 1 Phoenix 6 - Phoenix Article
First Period: Right from the off the game exploded into life with some great end to end hockey. No matter which side of the divide you were on, the game was entertaining! Both Lee and Fone in goal were proving up to the task to with some early saves to prevent go ahead goals. The first goal did come, and came for the Phoenix. McKinne was fed the puck down the left wing and, as he entered the Flames zone, unleashed a laser of a shot to Lee's top right corner. Such an accurate shot Lee had no chance! The first goal timed at 14min 54sec. The period continued with both sides pressing, the Phoenix with most of the possession but the Flames with the better quality chances. The Flames are an impressive team to watch, I don't think there is a better team on the transition from defensive zone to attacking opportunity.
Second Period: The second continued as the first left off, but the Phoenix were quick to extend their lead. At 22min 58sec Psurny got his first goal of the night. What happened next was amazing....the Phoenix scored a powerplay goal! Going on the advantage the Phoenix were able to move the puck around the perimeter of the zone with speed. When the puck made it to the right wing it was passed up to Boothroyd who was closing in on Lee, he unleased a lovely slapshot which went straight for the top right corner, timed 30min 46sec. It was right in my eye line and could not have been more accurate even if Crosby tried! Exactly three minutes later the Phoenix did it again, at 33min 46sec the puck began its movement only to find its way to Pozivil's stick for another slapshot and the Phoenix 4th goal. At this point the Flames called a timeout to regroup. Going into the second intermission the Phoenix were 4-0 up but not clear. The Flames are too good to not score!
Third Period: Phoenix got the perfect start in the third period, Psurny grabbed a second goal just 40sec into the session to give the Phoenix an impressive 5-0 advantage. The home faithful were in the stratosphere about a minute later when the home team scored again. At 41min 57sec Flaten fired the puck on the net only for Rick Skeene to put it past his own keeper. I can't remember if it was after the 5th or 6th goal but Guildford changed netminder. With the score now 6-0 the pressure on the Phoenix eased, but Guildford are a team that cannot be counted out. The final goal of the game came for the Flames and, in an effort to atone for his earlier mistake, it was Skeene who scored it, timed 45min 37sec. The rest of the period wound down and the Phoenix secured an impressive victory against the Flames.
Verdict: Brilliant game, brilliant result for the home team and fans. The Flames have hammered the Phoenix down in Guildford more than once so it was nice to dish out the punishment for once! I remember commenting on the Phoenix podcast, when asked about MOM. you couldn't pick out one player who shone, the whole team were excellent. If the Phoenix could re-create that performance every game we would be league champs!
Attendance: As said up at the top it was a good crowd in the Ice Dome, i'll guess at 1,300.
Phoenix 6 Guildford 1 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 6 Guildford 1 - Flames Article
Phoenix 6 Guildford 1 - MEN Article
Phoenix 6 Guildford 1 - Cheshire Today
Telford 1 Phoenix 6 - Phoenix Article
Friday, 11 January 2013
Phoenix v MK Lightning 6th January Game Review
Another visit of the MK Lightning to the Ice Dome and another good game in store. MK are a team that can play some good hockey but are more than willing to indulge in the darker side of the game if needed. So, a seasoned EPL team really! Most of the time games between the two sides can be real hockey spectacles with some very talented players on both rosters. As good as each team is, they tend to struggle in each other's rinks. On to the game, the Phoenix were still without Robert Schnabel but could finally welcome Liam Chong to the ice.
First Period: MK were resting Stephen Wall so it was Mettam and Fone who started between the pipes. MK started the game strongly, hitting the post twice but, it would be the Phoenix who got on the board first. James Archer scoring after just 1min 43sec. The early goal settled the Phoenix and MK so both teams began to play some great end to end hockey. Even in the early stages, there were a few PP opportunities for both sides. The MK powerplay looked very strong, they were quick and moved the puck around the zone with skill. Sadly they kept coming up against a hard working Phoenix D and Steve Fone in some great form. The Phoenix extended their lead, much to everyone's relief, on the powerplay. Luke Boothroyd continuing his fine scoring form with his goal timed at 16min 26sec. We then got a reminder as to how potent MK can be. Around a minute later and MK had got themselves back on the board, Scoring at 17min 32sec through Blaz Emersic....quality player that guy!
Second Period: The Phoenix were leading 2-1 at the start of the second period and the period carried on as the first did. When these two teams meet and, the game does not boil over, they can be a joy to watch. The Phoenix can, usually, dominate games at the Ice Dome but this one against MK was a great contest. End to end action with two goalies playing their best. The period wore on with no goals to be seen but, that would change towards the period end. With the puck in the MK zone Pozivil was found on the back post to score the Phoenix 3rd goal at 38min 12sec.
Third Period: MK, down 3-1, needed a quick start to the third period, and they got it! Just 13 seconds into the period and Tverdek scored, what great timing for the away side. A poor one to concede, especially as it was a certain Mr Hand who gave away the puck! Any thoughts the Phoenix had of running away with the game were blown out the window with that early goal. With that out the way the game got back to the end to end action we had seen in the first two sessions. The Phoenix were able to re-establish their two goal cushion when Tony Hand, perhaps to atone for his earlier error, stepped up from the blue line and blasted a slapshot through Mettam and into the MK goal. MK began to press for a goal and, with a minute to go pulled Mettam from the net. Thankfully, for the Phoenix faithful, the Phoenix got the puck to Flaten who scored an empty net goal at 59min 19sec. With the buzzer sounding soon after the Phoenix won the game 5-2.
Verdict: Games against MK can be tricky, they have many seasoned EPL performers and know who to win at this level. That being said, I think the Phoenix are slightly stronger and, I would expect us to win our home games versus MK. That being said, it was a great game to watch, so much end to end action with both sides creating chances.
Attendance: The attendance guessing game continues, i'll say 1,000 in.
Final thought: As was announced at the start of the game this would be Ciaran Long's last game in Phoenix colours. The young lad had just landed his 'dream job' after a 3 year search and the Phoenix would not stand in his way. Ciaran will be missed and leaves the Phoenix having played 82 games and amassing 28 goals and 19 assists. We will miss his hard work, physical play and never say die attitude. Ciaran leaves the Phoenix and has signed for the Slough Jets joining up with Slava Koulikov.
Phoenix 5 MK 2 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 5 MK 2 - MEN Article
Phoenix 5 MK 2 - Cheshire Today
First Period: MK were resting Stephen Wall so it was Mettam and Fone who started between the pipes. MK started the game strongly, hitting the post twice but, it would be the Phoenix who got on the board first. James Archer scoring after just 1min 43sec. The early goal settled the Phoenix and MK so both teams began to play some great end to end hockey. Even in the early stages, there were a few PP opportunities for both sides. The MK powerplay looked very strong, they were quick and moved the puck around the zone with skill. Sadly they kept coming up against a hard working Phoenix D and Steve Fone in some great form. The Phoenix extended their lead, much to everyone's relief, on the powerplay. Luke Boothroyd continuing his fine scoring form with his goal timed at 16min 26sec. We then got a reminder as to how potent MK can be. Around a minute later and MK had got themselves back on the board, Scoring at 17min 32sec through Blaz Emersic....quality player that guy!
Second Period: The Phoenix were leading 2-1 at the start of the second period and the period carried on as the first did. When these two teams meet and, the game does not boil over, they can be a joy to watch. The Phoenix can, usually, dominate games at the Ice Dome but this one against MK was a great contest. End to end action with two goalies playing their best. The period wore on with no goals to be seen but, that would change towards the period end. With the puck in the MK zone Pozivil was found on the back post to score the Phoenix 3rd goal at 38min 12sec.
Third Period: MK, down 3-1, needed a quick start to the third period, and they got it! Just 13 seconds into the period and Tverdek scored, what great timing for the away side. A poor one to concede, especially as it was a certain Mr Hand who gave away the puck! Any thoughts the Phoenix had of running away with the game were blown out the window with that early goal. With that out the way the game got back to the end to end action we had seen in the first two sessions. The Phoenix were able to re-establish their two goal cushion when Tony Hand, perhaps to atone for his earlier error, stepped up from the blue line and blasted a slapshot through Mettam and into the MK goal. MK began to press for a goal and, with a minute to go pulled Mettam from the net. Thankfully, for the Phoenix faithful, the Phoenix got the puck to Flaten who scored an empty net goal at 59min 19sec. With the buzzer sounding soon after the Phoenix won the game 5-2.
Verdict: Games against MK can be tricky, they have many seasoned EPL performers and know who to win at this level. That being said, I think the Phoenix are slightly stronger and, I would expect us to win our home games versus MK. That being said, it was a great game to watch, so much end to end action with both sides creating chances.
Attendance: The attendance guessing game continues, i'll say 1,000 in.
Final thought: As was announced at the start of the game this would be Ciaran Long's last game in Phoenix colours. The young lad had just landed his 'dream job' after a 3 year search and the Phoenix would not stand in his way. Ciaran will be missed and leaves the Phoenix having played 82 games and amassing 28 goals and 19 assists. We will miss his hard work, physical play and never say die attitude. Ciaran leaves the Phoenix and has signed for the Slough Jets joining up with Slava Koulikov.
Phoenix 5 MK 2 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 5 MK 2 - MEN Article
Phoenix 5 MK 2 - Cheshire Today
Sunday, 6 January 2013
Phoenix v Bracknell Bees 30th December Game Review
Prior to the visit of the Bees The Angry Budgie went off to Sheffield for a bit of a sporting day. Firstly I went to Sheffield United v Hartlepool which, despite the Blades being 1st in the division and Hartlepool being bottom, resulted in a 3-2 win for the away side. Disappointing, but hey ho the Phoenix will win later right? Nope, a collective team fail ensured the Steeldogs would win 8-4. So a crappy day sporting wise!
Perhaps because of that game, and/or giving him a rest but, El-Hage would start in goal for the Phoenix, facing him Ambler in the Bees net.
First Period: The Phoenix made a slow start and, for those fans who made the trip to Sheffield, many had shades of that night. The Bees capitalized on their hosts lackluster start and scored a great goal through Lack at 2min 46sec. Thankfully that sparked the Phoenix who went on to own the first period. The equiliser came at 6min 33sec when James Archer scored. The Phoenix, then capitalised on a powerplay, having seen recent homes games this marked a nice change! Derek Campbell continuing his impressive form got the PP marker at 9min 15sec. James Archer got his second of the game at 11min 38sec when he was on hand to tap in the back post to cap a great, flowing, up ice move. Tony Hand would score the Phoenix 4th of the game and end an excellent first period, scoring at 16min 50sec.
Second Period: The Phoenix continued to press the game and were rewarded with their 5th goal half way through the second session. Barri McKenzie got the puck around the Phoenix blue line and began his run up ice. After making it through 3 Bees players he scored his goal at 31min 32sec. This would be the only goal of the period as the Phoenix looked to close out the game.
Third Period: As the third period began the Bees upped their effort and ensure they were not wiped out completely. Martin Masa scored early into the period at 41min 10sec and, at the halfway mark, Lack got his second of the game at 50min 50sec to make the score 5-3 Phoenix. The Phoenix were in no mood to be charitable and shut the Bees down. The only further goal came at 56min 07sec when Derek Campell got the Phoenix 6th and final goal of the night.
Verdict: The game was a great response to the bad loss in Sheffield. it also capped a run of 6 games in 11 days. The Phoenix were clinical at times but coped well with the Bees. I felt sorry for Ambler in the Bees net, the stats won't be kind to him but, in truth, he was hung out to dry by the team in front! Ambler is a good goalie to have behind a hard working team but not good enough to face an entire team by himself!
Attendance: The holiday season boosted the numbers again, i'll say around 1,200 in the Ice Dome.
Phoenix 6 Bracknell 3 - MEN Article
Phoenix 6 Bracknell 3 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 6 Bracknell 3 - Bees Article
Perhaps because of that game, and/or giving him a rest but, El-Hage would start in goal for the Phoenix, facing him Ambler in the Bees net.
First Period: The Phoenix made a slow start and, for those fans who made the trip to Sheffield, many had shades of that night. The Bees capitalized on their hosts lackluster start and scored a great goal through Lack at 2min 46sec. Thankfully that sparked the Phoenix who went on to own the first period. The equiliser came at 6min 33sec when James Archer scored. The Phoenix, then capitalised on a powerplay, having seen recent homes games this marked a nice change! Derek Campbell continuing his impressive form got the PP marker at 9min 15sec. James Archer got his second of the game at 11min 38sec when he was on hand to tap in the back post to cap a great, flowing, up ice move. Tony Hand would score the Phoenix 4th of the game and end an excellent first period, scoring at 16min 50sec.
Second Period: The Phoenix continued to press the game and were rewarded with their 5th goal half way through the second session. Barri McKenzie got the puck around the Phoenix blue line and began his run up ice. After making it through 3 Bees players he scored his goal at 31min 32sec. This would be the only goal of the period as the Phoenix looked to close out the game.
Third Period: As the third period began the Bees upped their effort and ensure they were not wiped out completely. Martin Masa scored early into the period at 41min 10sec and, at the halfway mark, Lack got his second of the game at 50min 50sec to make the score 5-3 Phoenix. The Phoenix were in no mood to be charitable and shut the Bees down. The only further goal came at 56min 07sec when Derek Campell got the Phoenix 6th and final goal of the night.
Verdict: The game was a great response to the bad loss in Sheffield. it also capped a run of 6 games in 11 days. The Phoenix were clinical at times but coped well with the Bees. I felt sorry for Ambler in the Bees net, the stats won't be kind to him but, in truth, he was hung out to dry by the team in front! Ambler is a good goalie to have behind a hard working team but not good enough to face an entire team by himself!
Attendance: The holiday season boosted the numbers again, i'll say around 1,200 in the Ice Dome.
Phoenix 6 Bracknell 3 - MEN Article
Phoenix 6 Bracknell 3 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 6 Bracknell 3 - Bees Article
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Saturday, 5 January 2013
Phoenix v Telford Tigers 27th December Game Review
With Christmas done and dusted for another year it was time for the lunatics (fans) to assemble once again in a damn freezing Ice Rink in Altrincham. Tonight's victims, err team, was the Telford Tigers. A team who, being 10th in the league, should be a nailed on 2 points for the Phoenix but, as I have found out on a few away games, seem able to put one over the Phoenix every now and then. Plus, in Declan Ryan, they have themselves another Ben Bowns!
A large crowd, possibly the biggest of the season, filled the Dome and a good representation from the Tigers fans helped create a great pre-game atmosphere.
First Period: Just like games against the Steeldogs, early goals are essential against the Tigers. Even without Ryan in the lineup (absent through illness) the Tigers can be a difficult, park the bus, type of team to beat. There were many who were relieved it was the Phoenix who scored first. Psurny adding to his impressive tally with the first goal scored at 5min 37sec. The Tigers hit back straight away when new import Jaroslav Kruzik got them on the board at 8min 21sec. Thankfully, for us Phoenix fans, that goal woke up the Phoenix offence. The Phoenix engaged gear and really took the game by the scruff of the neck. Michael Psurny completed a wonderful natural hattrick with two further goals at 9min 13sec and 14min 39sec. Tony Hand then capped off an excellent first period with the Phoenix 4th goal at 16min 19sec.
Second Period: After a great first period it was up to the Phoenix to close out the game now. So many times the Phoenix have got into good leads against teams like Telford only to let them back in. The second showed the Phoenix could close down a team and secure the win. Pozivil got the Phoenix going in the second period when he ghosted round to the back post to tap in a lovely goal at 23min 14sec. Telford showed they could still hit twine when Selwood scored at 24min ??sec. I don't know the exact time as, only a few seconds later Tom Duggan scored the Phoenix 6th goal. Flaten was next up to get a share of the spoils as he scored at 27min 40sec. Then new guy Barri McKenzie opened his scoring account with a goal at 36min 21sec.
Third Period: With the score now 8-2 to the Phoenix the game and atmosphere fell at this point. The game was won, the only question was, would the Phoenix (Tony Hand) look to improve their goal difference or, not embarrass the opposition? Halfway through the period the Phoenix got number 9 when Luke Boothroyd scored a power play goal at 49min exactly. With the game winding down it was Tony Hand himself who would score the Phoenix 10th goal at 58min 47sec.
Verdict: The Phoenix finally ran up the scoreboard when they had the chance. The Tigers could have made this game difficult but, due to illness, lost too many key players to challenge for the full 60 minutes. The Phoenix were professional and ruthless at times and sent the large crowd home happy.
Attendance: The christmas season was good for the Phoenix, i'd guess at 1,300 in the Ice Dome.
Phoenix 10 Telford 2 - MEN Article
Phoenix 10 Telford 2 - Phoenix Article
A large crowd, possibly the biggest of the season, filled the Dome and a good representation from the Tigers fans helped create a great pre-game atmosphere.
First Period: Just like games against the Steeldogs, early goals are essential against the Tigers. Even without Ryan in the lineup (absent through illness) the Tigers can be a difficult, park the bus, type of team to beat. There were many who were relieved it was the Phoenix who scored first. Psurny adding to his impressive tally with the first goal scored at 5min 37sec. The Tigers hit back straight away when new import Jaroslav Kruzik got them on the board at 8min 21sec. Thankfully, for us Phoenix fans, that goal woke up the Phoenix offence. The Phoenix engaged gear and really took the game by the scruff of the neck. Michael Psurny completed a wonderful natural hattrick with two further goals at 9min 13sec and 14min 39sec. Tony Hand then capped off an excellent first period with the Phoenix 4th goal at 16min 19sec.
Second Period: After a great first period it was up to the Phoenix to close out the game now. So many times the Phoenix have got into good leads against teams like Telford only to let them back in. The second showed the Phoenix could close down a team and secure the win. Pozivil got the Phoenix going in the second period when he ghosted round to the back post to tap in a lovely goal at 23min 14sec. Telford showed they could still hit twine when Selwood scored at 24min ??sec. I don't know the exact time as, only a few seconds later Tom Duggan scored the Phoenix 6th goal. Flaten was next up to get a share of the spoils as he scored at 27min 40sec. Then new guy Barri McKenzie opened his scoring account with a goal at 36min 21sec.
Third Period: With the score now 8-2 to the Phoenix the game and atmosphere fell at this point. The game was won, the only question was, would the Phoenix (Tony Hand) look to improve their goal difference or, not embarrass the opposition? Halfway through the period the Phoenix got number 9 when Luke Boothroyd scored a power play goal at 49min exactly. With the game winding down it was Tony Hand himself who would score the Phoenix 10th goal at 58min 47sec.
Verdict: The Phoenix finally ran up the scoreboard when they had the chance. The Tigers could have made this game difficult but, due to illness, lost too many key players to challenge for the full 60 minutes. The Phoenix were professional and ruthless at times and sent the large crowd home happy.
Attendance: The christmas season was good for the Phoenix, i'd guess at 1,300 in the Ice Dome.
Phoenix 10 Telford 2 - MEN Article
Phoenix 10 Telford 2 - Phoenix Article
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