After the disappointment of loosing the
'War of the Roses' cup the Phoenix had to dust themselves down and get
ready for the opening weekend of the 2012/13 season. This year the opening
weekend would be a tough one away to Swindon, traditionally a place where
the Phoenix have struggled, then home to the Basingstoke Bison.
The away game in Swindon proved to be
another tight game, after going down 2-0 early in the game the Phoenix
fought back and tied the game 2-2. Overtime couldnt separate them so penalty
shots it was. New boy Psurny scored amongst the Phoenix shooters and the
Phoenix headed back north with a 3-2 win after penalty shots.
A wet sunday saw the Phoenix masses
assemble for the EPL campaign against a vastly different Bison team the
highlight of which, perhaps, was the debut EPL season for Stevie Lyle.
One of the best British goalies to take to the ice, it's a little strange
as to why he couldn't remain in the EIHL but im sure Bison fans don't care
a jot!
First Period: Off we go and what a difference
to last week. This was a hockey game! Games between the Phoenix/Bison have
always been good/competitive hockey games and good adverts for EPL hockey.
The early stages were faily even as both sides found their footing but,
as the period progressed the Phoenix began to dominate. In a theme that
would repeat throughout the Phoenix dominated possession but were restricted
to long shots which Lyle will save in his sleep. The Bison were working
very hard at keeping the hash marks clear and sweeping away the numerous
rebounds given by Lyle. The first goal came for the Bison, against the
run of play, after the Phoenix got into penalty trouble. After the Phoenix
had wasted a few PP opportunities it was somewhat embarrassing how quickly
the Bison scored on their first. Granted it was a 5 on 3 but the Bison
must have scored just 5 sec after the second Phoenix player went into the
box! The goalscorer was Greg Owen the goal coming at 13min 24sec. The rest
of the period saw the Phoenix press for an equalizer but none came.
Second Period: The second session was
much like the first, the Phoenix with all the possession and chances but
nothing clear cut and no goals! It was good to see the Phoenix playing
so well, and seeing Psurny show his wares, he is another brilliant find!,
but frustrating to see no clear chances come to the home side. The hashmarks
again were kept clear and the Phoenix struggled to get near and pick up
the rebounds coming from Lyle.
Third Period: The Phoenix had to score,
we had now gone 5 periods at home without scoring, you can imagine the
relief when the Phoenix did finally get on the board. At 43min 09sec the
Phoenix advanced down the left, Archer drops the puck back to McKenzie
who lets rip with a wicked shot through the 5 hole. Lyle completely screened
by Archer and the Bison D. As the game progressed and the Phoenix pushed
for the winner, the Bison would break home fans hearts and score their
second. Joe Greener scoring after 51min 03sec. A few more frustrating Phoenix
powerplays followed with not a hint of a goal and the clock wound down
to condemn the Phoenix to a loss.
Verdict: A much easier loss to take
this one, as it was a damn good game of hockey! On balance of play the
Bison didn't deserve to win but, they worked hard on D and Lyle stood on
his head. 45 shots on him and he only conceded one, he won the game for
the Bison. The Phoenix played well but it was concerning how we couldn't
get close to Lyle and pick up any rebounds. This was very much a winnable
game! Nevermind!
Attendance: About 1,100 in the Ice Dome
Phoenix 1 Bison 2 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 1 Bison 2 - Bison Article
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