The season marches on and waits for now one, the Phoenix weekend saw a trip along the M62 to visit the Hull Pirates and the most versatile arena in the country. This before welcoming the Flames in the latest instalment of the pyron derby.
Saturdays away trip saw a clinical Phoenix race out to a 6-0 lead into the third period, the Pirates would get a consolation goal but the Phoenix would head back with the two points. Possibly securing their playoff hopes too.
http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2744/phoenix-claim-clinical-win-hull
Two points in the bag, the weekend was already a good one for the Phonix. With our season going the way it is, to get 50% of the points available will do for me! Plus, the last time we played the Flames we stole the win so, you never know! What would be certain would be an entertaining game. Both teams lined up on the blue line with similar numbers actually but, the Flames quality across the roster was evident. This would, again, be a tough game for the Phoenix to get some points.
First Period: The game opened with speed, as they always do! The Phoenix would then fall foul of some questionable officiating calls, Martin Baranek was called for tripping which gave the Flames the advantage. The games first goal followed on the resulting powerplay when Ozolins was found free in acres of space on the back post, with about half the goal free, he lit the lamp at 4min 33sec. The Phoenix fought back with Stan Gron getting a few chances close to Richard Ullberg but sadly not able to convert.
Second Period: Phoenix were on the board early in the second period when Phil Hamer intercepted the puck and released Trent Hope who unleashed an awesome shot to score at 24min 28sec. The game continued to swing from side to side and, sadly for the Phoenix, the questionable officials continued to baffle the home fans and Phoenix players. Flames would re-take the lead on another powerplay opportunity when Jez Lundin fired home 4 seconds into the powerplay at 25min 41sec. Midway through the period the Flames were given a penalty shot, probably a fair call to be honest. Ozolins with the chance and was denied by Fone with an excellent pad save. Phoenix clambered back into the game and began to force their own chances, the highlight being a post hit by James Neil.
Third Period: The score was 2-1 Guildford so plenty of time for the Phoenix to get back into the game. That hope was quickly extinguished when the Flames opened up a two goal lead at 41min 39sec when Tom Duggan scored. Satek offered some hope when he scored off a feed from Stan Gron at 43min 14sec. With 10min to go the Flames sealed the game. Two quick goals from Andy McKinney at 50min 13sec and 51min 57sec saw the game won. Janis Ozolins would get his second of the night on a breakaway goal at 56min 58sec to make it 6-2 Guildford.
Verdict: It was disappointing to see the game slip away so much in the third period despite all the hard work in the first 40mins. That being said, the Flames were good for the win. The strength in depth meant they could roll strong lines across the board than the Phoenix. Plus they were more clinical than the Phoenix, chances were there for the home side but, they werent being put away. Had Gron had more luck he could have had a hattrick on his own. With the win in Hull the night before, it wasnt a catastrophic loss, disappointing but not the end of the world!
http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2745/phoenix-burnt-late-flames
http://www.guildfordflames.com/february_14th_v_manchester_phoenix___league
Showing posts with label Guildford Flames. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Guildford Flames. Show all posts
Thursday, 18 February 2016
Monday, 21 September 2015
Phoenix Rolling - Guildford Flames 20/09/15
After the Phoenix perfect opening weekend the season would face a huge reality check the weekend just gone. The Phoenix came up against two clubs who would be challengers for the EPL title. Saturday saw the Phoenix take a trip down south to take on the Basingstoke Bison then head back to Deeside to take on the Guildford Flames. Two clubs with bigger rosters than the Phoenix and two tough games. The Phoenix have always struggled a little in Basinstoke but the return, on home ice, the Phoenix would look to beat the Flames in the first installment of the #PyroDerby.
The weekends preparations were not helped when news emerged that MecaGron would be sidelined through injury for the foreseeable future. This is where the knife edge nature of the Phoenix roster would fall down. The team are already a short benched team, take out one of your main scoring threats that puts the team really behind the 8 ball! But, thems the cards your dealt. I wont go into the game in detail for two reasons, 1) I wasn't there and 2) head over to Banners on the Wall and Anthony will give you an in depth rundown of the game. Suffice to say the short bench, plus another injury sustained during the game meant the Phoenix chronically short bench could not cope. The Phoenix left Basingstoke with a 6-2 loss.
Back in Deeside on the sunday news emerged of Ben Wood's injury, having taken a hard hit in Basingstoke the night before, Ben was left with a sore shoulder which would keep him out the game. Two players down, 4 if you include the two Deeside youngsters signed on 2-way deals who, were also out through injury. Coupled with the Flames strength in depth I will admit I was not feeling hopeful about the game. Big big thanks must go out to two Dragons (Deeside) senior players who answered the call and suited up to help the Phoenix out. So, James Parsons and Simon Furnival to volunteer and come to play an EPL game with no training with the Phoenix at all, massive thanks to you and the Deeside Dragons!
First Period: The game began without much structure to it, much of the play was very scrappy with neither side able to take control of the game. Guildford were able to pin most of the play in the Phoenix zone but, thanks to hard working defence and Fone in ninja mode, the Flames rarely came close to a clear cut chance in the opening stages. The Flames pressure did begin to build and a breakthrough was made on the powerplay. With Trent Hope in the penalty box on a tripping call, Flames went on the PP at 7min 16sec. After setting up in the zone the Flames began to move the puck around and, after just 33sec made the breakthrough. Steve Fone made the initial save on the play, then a 2nd and 3rd save but the Flames perseverance delivered a goal on the 4th attempt. After Fone made the 3rd stop, his rebound fell to Piatak unmarked on the back post to score. As the period wound down the next incident of note was a rather amusing penalty taken by Andy McKinney. Mark Thomas made a fantastic, heavy, hit behind Fone's goal which Andy took exception too. After the play was blown dead, McKinney and Thomas skated away having words before McKinney dropped his gloves. Thomas just giggled, turned away, and skated back to the bench. McKinney, dropping the gloves a little early and earning himself a 2+10 for incitement. Flames went into the break just a goal to the good despite outshooting the Phoenix 2-to-1!
Second Period: Throughout the first period and into the second, it became obvious the Phoenix were playing to a particular plan. Accepting the shorter bench, the Phoenix were allowing the Flames puck possession, then working very hard to clear the ice in front of Fone. As the Phoenix continued to soak up the pressure the Flames began to get more and more frustrated. Small errors began creeping into the game and the Phoenix started to get a few breakaway chances. Mark Thomas turned quarterback in a remarkable 5 minute period at the mid point of the game, which saw the Phoenix take the lead. His first assist saw James Archer released who danced through the Flames defence to score past Wall at 29min 49sec. The second, Robin Kovar had sat in the penalty box for a 2min tripping call, upon his release, Thomas floated a beautiful pass inbetween the Flames D men for Kovar to latch onto and skate in on Wall alone. Robin making no mistake with his finish putting the Phoenix into the lead at 34min 17sec.
Third Period: The Phoenix did grow into the game more in the third period but, Flames did still control the number of chances created but, they still could not put the puck in the net. The Phoenix were now very comfortable in soaking up the pressure and looking to counter on the break. The only goal of the game came to the Phoenix in, and i'll have to quote Ben Knight on this, possibly the most bizare goal he has ever seen. I will admit I did not see the goal as I was noting down a shot. All I heard was the crowd erupt from across the ice. A goal you will need to watch Phoenix TV for I think! Gareth O'Flaherty scoring the Phoenix third goal at 42min 40sec. The Phoenix D contunued to hold and frustrate the Flames who could not make headway back into the game at all. Into the last two minutes the Flames pulled Wall for the extra attacker but could not make the breakthrough. Phoenix holding on for a memorable win!
Verdict: I will admit, going into sundays game, I did not have the Phoenix down for a win. I thought we could compete for periods 1 & 2 but the third we would tire and let slip the game. How wrong could I have been. This was such a statement type of win, almost as if the team just accepted the numerical disadvantage but in no way would that stop them. There was so much guts and determination during those 60mins I think it surprised the Flames as well as myself. Guildford may have expected an easier game due to their extra numbers but, quickly became frustrated and their discipline and sharpness cost them. Huge win for the Phoenix and many many many big smiles around the rink after the final buzzer!
http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2672/phoenix-defeated-basingstoke
http://www.basingstokegazette.co.uk/sport/13771803.REPORT___Basingstoke_Bison_6_2_Manchester_Phoenix/
http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2673/phoenix-battle-flames-take-win#close
http://www.guildfordflames.com/september_20th_v_manchester_phoenix___league_and_cup
The weekends preparations were not helped when news emerged that MecaGron would be sidelined through injury for the foreseeable future. This is where the knife edge nature of the Phoenix roster would fall down. The team are already a short benched team, take out one of your main scoring threats that puts the team really behind the 8 ball! But, thems the cards your dealt. I wont go into the game in detail for two reasons, 1) I wasn't there and 2) head over to Banners on the Wall and Anthony will give you an in depth rundown of the game. Suffice to say the short bench, plus another injury sustained during the game meant the Phoenix chronically short bench could not cope. The Phoenix left Basingstoke with a 6-2 loss.
Back in Deeside on the sunday news emerged of Ben Wood's injury, having taken a hard hit in Basingstoke the night before, Ben was left with a sore shoulder which would keep him out the game. Two players down, 4 if you include the two Deeside youngsters signed on 2-way deals who, were also out through injury. Coupled with the Flames strength in depth I will admit I was not feeling hopeful about the game. Big big thanks must go out to two Dragons (Deeside) senior players who answered the call and suited up to help the Phoenix out. So, James Parsons and Simon Furnival to volunteer and come to play an EPL game with no training with the Phoenix at all, massive thanks to you and the Deeside Dragons!
First Period: The game began without much structure to it, much of the play was very scrappy with neither side able to take control of the game. Guildford were able to pin most of the play in the Phoenix zone but, thanks to hard working defence and Fone in ninja mode, the Flames rarely came close to a clear cut chance in the opening stages. The Flames pressure did begin to build and a breakthrough was made on the powerplay. With Trent Hope in the penalty box on a tripping call, Flames went on the PP at 7min 16sec. After setting up in the zone the Flames began to move the puck around and, after just 33sec made the breakthrough. Steve Fone made the initial save on the play, then a 2nd and 3rd save but the Flames perseverance delivered a goal on the 4th attempt. After Fone made the 3rd stop, his rebound fell to Piatak unmarked on the back post to score. As the period wound down the next incident of note was a rather amusing penalty taken by Andy McKinney. Mark Thomas made a fantastic, heavy, hit behind Fone's goal which Andy took exception too. After the play was blown dead, McKinney and Thomas skated away having words before McKinney dropped his gloves. Thomas just giggled, turned away, and skated back to the bench. McKinney, dropping the gloves a little early and earning himself a 2+10 for incitement. Flames went into the break just a goal to the good despite outshooting the Phoenix 2-to-1!
Second Period: Throughout the first period and into the second, it became obvious the Phoenix were playing to a particular plan. Accepting the shorter bench, the Phoenix were allowing the Flames puck possession, then working very hard to clear the ice in front of Fone. As the Phoenix continued to soak up the pressure the Flames began to get more and more frustrated. Small errors began creeping into the game and the Phoenix started to get a few breakaway chances. Mark Thomas turned quarterback in a remarkable 5 minute period at the mid point of the game, which saw the Phoenix take the lead. His first assist saw James Archer released who danced through the Flames defence to score past Wall at 29min 49sec. The second, Robin Kovar had sat in the penalty box for a 2min tripping call, upon his release, Thomas floated a beautiful pass inbetween the Flames D men for Kovar to latch onto and skate in on Wall alone. Robin making no mistake with his finish putting the Phoenix into the lead at 34min 17sec.
Third Period: The Phoenix did grow into the game more in the third period but, Flames did still control the number of chances created but, they still could not put the puck in the net. The Phoenix were now very comfortable in soaking up the pressure and looking to counter on the break. The only goal of the game came to the Phoenix in, and i'll have to quote Ben Knight on this, possibly the most bizare goal he has ever seen. I will admit I did not see the goal as I was noting down a shot. All I heard was the crowd erupt from across the ice. A goal you will need to watch Phoenix TV for I think! Gareth O'Flaherty scoring the Phoenix third goal at 42min 40sec. The Phoenix D contunued to hold and frustrate the Flames who could not make headway back into the game at all. Into the last two minutes the Flames pulled Wall for the extra attacker but could not make the breakthrough. Phoenix holding on for a memorable win!
Verdict: I will admit, going into sundays game, I did not have the Phoenix down for a win. I thought we could compete for periods 1 & 2 but the third we would tire and let slip the game. How wrong could I have been. This was such a statement type of win, almost as if the team just accepted the numerical disadvantage but in no way would that stop them. There was so much guts and determination during those 60mins I think it surprised the Flames as well as myself. Guildford may have expected an easier game due to their extra numbers but, quickly became frustrated and their discipline and sharpness cost them. Huge win for the Phoenix and many many many big smiles around the rink after the final buzzer!
http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2672/phoenix-defeated-basingstoke
http://www.basingstokegazette.co.uk/sport/13771803.REPORT___Basingstoke_Bison_6_2_Manchester_Phoenix/
http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2673/phoenix-battle-flames-take-win#close
http://www.guildfordflames.com/september_20th_v_manchester_phoenix___league_and_cup
Friday, 27 February 2015
Phoenix Rolling - 22nd February Guildford Flames
Last sunday saw the last home instalment of the #PyroDerby with the Guildford Flames arriving, albeit a little late, to the Ice Dome. Flames were coming into this game in second place and on a 7 game winning run. Phoenix, while playing better, were still not finding a consistent run. That being said, games between the two sides are always good fun and a great watch. So, after a slight delay, a large crowd took their seats to enjoy some hockey.
First Period: Phoenix got off to a great start by controlling the game and keeping Hadfield under constant pressure. The Phoenix had a number of early chances through breakaway's. Frankie Bakrlik coming close early on when he was put through on goal. Then, after the 7min mark, Bakrlik was put through once again and, after the earlier sighter, made no mistake second time round. Slotting home a lovely goal, timed at 7min 33sec. Phoenix continued to dominate the period, the Flames were eking out their own chances but were finding Fone in top form. Despite the dominance the period would end with the scores level. After some good work by the Flames in the corner the puck found its way to the net with no-one reacting. It was Longstaff who reacted first and banked the puck in off Fone's skate to level the game. The Flames goal coming at 18min 42sec.
Second Period: The Phoenix train kept rolling in the second piling more and more pressure on Hadfield and the Flames defence. Flames working hard to keep the Phoenix out and the Phoenix were limiting the clear chances for the Flames. The period would see only one goal, it came for the home side as the Phoenix took the lead once again. The Phoenix third line has been a highlight this second half of the season, their hard work and tenacity, perhaps, not getting their rewards when they should. The only goal of the period came for the third line, after some great work by Walker and Graham, Bobby Chamberlain capped off the move with the goal. Time at 33min 01sec.
Third Period: Began close but, around the halfway mark in the period, the game exploded into life. Guildford levelled the game once again when Danny Meyers scored a superb powerplay goal at 51min 11sec to tie the game. That situation only lasted 50sec until the Phoenix re-took the lead. Bobby Chamberlain scored his second of the night with assists from Kovar and Thompson, goal coming at 51min 01sec. Another highlight reel goal followed from the Phoenix new scoring machine, Joe Graham. Joe has really improved over the year and, his new found confidence is showing. Graham scoring the Phoenix 4th goal at 54min 12sec. The late arrival and the blitz in the third period began to take their toll on the Flames as they began to tire. So, a 5th goal followed on the powerplay. Robin Kovar getting his name on the scoresheet at 57min 02sec. The period ended with the Phoenix domination underlined, outshooting the Flames 22-8 in the final session!
Verdict: Superb performance from the Phoenix, dominating for the majority of the game against the second best team in the EPL. Its games and performances such as this that offer a glimpse of what this season could have been for the Phoenix. Tambo mentioned, off air on the podcast, that the Phoenix have lost 65ish games to injury, that's an incredible stat! Still, going into the playoffs and, the Cup final against Telford, the Phoenix is rising! Performances are improving and, Captain Boothroyd is edging closer to a return to the ice.
Attendance: Big crowd in the ice dome for a top game, 1,200 in.
Phoenix 5 Guildford 2 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 5 Guildford 2 - Flames Article
Phoenix 5 Guildford 2 - Get Surrey
Phoenix TV:
First Period: Phoenix got off to a great start by controlling the game and keeping Hadfield under constant pressure. The Phoenix had a number of early chances through breakaway's. Frankie Bakrlik coming close early on when he was put through on goal. Then, after the 7min mark, Bakrlik was put through once again and, after the earlier sighter, made no mistake second time round. Slotting home a lovely goal, timed at 7min 33sec. Phoenix continued to dominate the period, the Flames were eking out their own chances but were finding Fone in top form. Despite the dominance the period would end with the scores level. After some good work by the Flames in the corner the puck found its way to the net with no-one reacting. It was Longstaff who reacted first and banked the puck in off Fone's skate to level the game. The Flames goal coming at 18min 42sec.
Second Period: The Phoenix train kept rolling in the second piling more and more pressure on Hadfield and the Flames defence. Flames working hard to keep the Phoenix out and the Phoenix were limiting the clear chances for the Flames. The period would see only one goal, it came for the home side as the Phoenix took the lead once again. The Phoenix third line has been a highlight this second half of the season, their hard work and tenacity, perhaps, not getting their rewards when they should. The only goal of the period came for the third line, after some great work by Walker and Graham, Bobby Chamberlain capped off the move with the goal. Time at 33min 01sec.
Third Period: Began close but, around the halfway mark in the period, the game exploded into life. Guildford levelled the game once again when Danny Meyers scored a superb powerplay goal at 51min 11sec to tie the game. That situation only lasted 50sec until the Phoenix re-took the lead. Bobby Chamberlain scored his second of the night with assists from Kovar and Thompson, goal coming at 51min 01sec. Another highlight reel goal followed from the Phoenix new scoring machine, Joe Graham. Joe has really improved over the year and, his new found confidence is showing. Graham scoring the Phoenix 4th goal at 54min 12sec. The late arrival and the blitz in the third period began to take their toll on the Flames as they began to tire. So, a 5th goal followed on the powerplay. Robin Kovar getting his name on the scoresheet at 57min 02sec. The period ended with the Phoenix domination underlined, outshooting the Flames 22-8 in the final session!
Verdict: Superb performance from the Phoenix, dominating for the majority of the game against the second best team in the EPL. Its games and performances such as this that offer a glimpse of what this season could have been for the Phoenix. Tambo mentioned, off air on the podcast, that the Phoenix have lost 65ish games to injury, that's an incredible stat! Still, going into the playoffs and, the Cup final against Telford, the Phoenix is rising! Performances are improving and, Captain Boothroyd is edging closer to a return to the ice.
Attendance: Big crowd in the ice dome for a top game, 1,200 in.
Phoenix 5 Guildford 2 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 5 Guildford 2 - Flames Article
Phoenix 5 Guildford 2 - Get Surrey
Phoenix TV:
Wednesday, 26 November 2014
Phoenix Rolling - Double Trouble 15/16 November
Better late than never with the hockey reviews hey?
Last weekend saw the Phoenix in a cup/league home double header and, the sunday game, was also a Groupon night. Saturday the Phoenix took on the Solway Sharks at the Ice Dome which saw the return of Ian Bowie and Richie Bentham to the Ice Dome. Guildford Flames were then the visitors for sunday night in a league encounter which would offer the Phoenix the chance to build on their recent league turnaround. The visit of the Flames, in the Pyro Derby, would see yet another ex-Phoenix player make his first return to the Dome in Andy McKinnie. Flames, more and more, becoming the Phoenix B team!
As there are two games to review I will dispense with the usual period by period review and give you the facts and an overview of each game.
So, up first, the Cup Crossover competition, saturday night against the Solway Sharks:
Period 1:
Phoenix, 6.33 Psurny
Sharks, 7.47 Fulton
Phoenix, 8.19 Chamberlain
Sharks, 8.41 Bowie
Period 2:
Phoenix, 20.23 Burlin
Phoenix, 28.04 Watkins
Phoenix, 31.46 Wood
Phoenix, 36.40 Walker
Period 3:
Phoenix, 44.27 Chamberlain
Phoenix DPG 45.06 Chamberlain
Phoenix, 45.46 Dickinson
Phoenix, 56.20 Psurny
The Sharks came out and worked hard during the first period and the scoreline after the first 20 was representative of that. However, the next 40min there were no further surprises. The Phoenix controlled the game and ran up the score with the second and third lines getting some reward on the scoreboard for their efforts. So no major surprises in the game, it was good to see Richie Bentham again and, playing at NIHL level he did look a cut above his team-mates. Good luck to you Richie!
Phoenix 10 Solway 2 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 10 Solway 2 - Solway Article
The second home game of the weekend saw the Flames come north to a packed Ice Dome (see panorama on my twitter feed) for another installment of the Pyro Derby. With Andy McKinnie moving south the, ex-Phoenix contingent now playing for Guildford now numbers 4, even so a warm welcome was offered and off we went!
Period 1:
Phoenix, 7.23 Psurny
Period 2:
Flames, 25.55 Huppe
Phoenix, 27.57 Psurny
Period 3:
Phoenix, 47.39 Archer
Flames, 49.13 Hemmings
Flames, 49.23 Kvetan
Phoenix, 58.40 Thompson
Phoenix ENG, 59.59 Psurny
This was another good performance from the Phoenix, they worked so hard closing Guildford down all over the ice. The Flames didn't have much of a plan B to counter it. It was great to see the efforts from the Bison game were being applied again and getting results. Michal Psurny was back in goal scoring form and also pleasing to see James Archer scoring after his long layoff. There were some worries when the Flames brought it back to 3-3 after two very very fortunate goals. So the relief on the ice and in the stands when Shaun Thompson got the 4th was incredible. The players and big crowd erupted! This is another game to watch on Phoenix TV no doubt about it!
Phoenix 5 Guildford 3 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 5 Guildford 3 - Flames Article
Phoenix TV:
Sorry for the truncated nature of this weeks post, hopefully normal service will be resumed next week!
Last weekend saw the Phoenix in a cup/league home double header and, the sunday game, was also a Groupon night. Saturday the Phoenix took on the Solway Sharks at the Ice Dome which saw the return of Ian Bowie and Richie Bentham to the Ice Dome. Guildford Flames were then the visitors for sunday night in a league encounter which would offer the Phoenix the chance to build on their recent league turnaround. The visit of the Flames, in the Pyro Derby, would see yet another ex-Phoenix player make his first return to the Dome in Andy McKinnie. Flames, more and more, becoming the Phoenix B team!
As there are two games to review I will dispense with the usual period by period review and give you the facts and an overview of each game.
So, up first, the Cup Crossover competition, saturday night against the Solway Sharks:
Period 1:
Phoenix, 6.33 Psurny
Sharks, 7.47 Fulton
Phoenix, 8.19 Chamberlain
Sharks, 8.41 Bowie
Period 2:
Phoenix, 20.23 Burlin
Phoenix, 28.04 Watkins
Phoenix, 31.46 Wood
Phoenix, 36.40 Walker
Period 3:
Phoenix, 44.27 Chamberlain
Phoenix DPG 45.06 Chamberlain
Phoenix, 45.46 Dickinson
Phoenix, 56.20 Psurny
The Sharks came out and worked hard during the first period and the scoreline after the first 20 was representative of that. However, the next 40min there were no further surprises. The Phoenix controlled the game and ran up the score with the second and third lines getting some reward on the scoreboard for their efforts. So no major surprises in the game, it was good to see Richie Bentham again and, playing at NIHL level he did look a cut above his team-mates. Good luck to you Richie!
Phoenix 10 Solway 2 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 10 Solway 2 - Solway Article
The second home game of the weekend saw the Flames come north to a packed Ice Dome (see panorama on my twitter feed) for another installment of the Pyro Derby. With Andy McKinnie moving south the, ex-Phoenix contingent now playing for Guildford now numbers 4, even so a warm welcome was offered and off we went!
Period 1:
Phoenix, 7.23 Psurny
Period 2:
Flames, 25.55 Huppe
Phoenix, 27.57 Psurny
Period 3:
Phoenix, 47.39 Archer
Flames, 49.13 Hemmings
Flames, 49.23 Kvetan
Phoenix, 58.40 Thompson
Phoenix ENG, 59.59 Psurny
This was another good performance from the Phoenix, they worked so hard closing Guildford down all over the ice. The Flames didn't have much of a plan B to counter it. It was great to see the efforts from the Bison game were being applied again and getting results. Michal Psurny was back in goal scoring form and also pleasing to see James Archer scoring after his long layoff. There were some worries when the Flames brought it back to 3-3 after two very very fortunate goals. So the relief on the ice and in the stands when Shaun Thompson got the 4th was incredible. The players and big crowd erupted! This is another game to watch on Phoenix TV no doubt about it!
Phoenix 5 Guildford 3 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 5 Guildford 3 - Flames Article
Phoenix TV:
Sorry for the truncated nature of this weeks post, hopefully normal service will be resumed next week!
Wednesday, 12 March 2014
Phoenix v Guildford Flames 8th March
The Phoenix came into their second 3 game weekend in some good form as the race for the title really heats up! The Flames had dropped away a little leaving the Phoenix and Bison the favourites to duke it out for the league crown. The second tough weekend for the Phoenix began with a trip to Peterborough to take on the Phantoms before, returning home to face the Flames then a sunday away day to the resurgent Telford Tigers. When chasing a league title the Phoenix don't have a good record in Peterborough. On this occasion the Phoenix would come away empty handed again, the Phantoms skating to a 6-4 win. The Phoenix do have one more trip to Peterborough before the end of the season, I only hope the fate of the title is decided before then!
Phantoms 6 Phoenix 4 - Phoenix Article
Phantoms 6 Phoenix 4 - Phantoms Article
With one of the games in hand played in Peterborough, the Phoenix faced the Guildford Flames before playing the second game in hand at Telford on sunday. The Flames game on saturday would be a cracker, as they usually are between the two sides but, with the added carrot's of vital league points and the opportunity to put the Flames further out of the running. A large crowd turned up and off we went.
First Period: The game began at quite a pace with both sides creating chances and speeding about the ice. The Phoenix had most of the puck in the early stages but were not getting many/if any quality shots in on Mark Lee. Even the first period would make Phoenix TV viewing essential. The Flames would get the scoring started when Opatovsky stepped out the box, picked up a looping puck through centre ice, exchanged a one-two with Melicherik to put the puck past a prone Fone. The goal really was fantastic and great to watch, even though it was the visitors who scored it! That was the only goal of the period, while the Phoenix were behind, they had done enough to suggest they could get back in the game.
Second Period: The second period saw the Phoenix frustrated, having lots of the puck just wasn't turning into chances. The Flames playing a disciplined road game which kept the home side out. Phoenix did finally get going on the powerplay when Bakrlik unleashed a canon of a shot to leave Lee no chance, the Phoenix on the board at 26min 04sec. Parity only lasted around 3 minutes when the Flames capitalised on some lax defending to re-take the lead at 29min 11sec through Hemmings. The Phoenix tried hard through the latter half of the period but could not find a way through.
Third Period: A big effort was needed in the third period and, it couldn't have started worse for the Phoenix! Just 53sec into the period former Phoenix man Kristoffersson put the Flames 3-1 up. 2 goals back would be tough and, it was easily one of those, title challenge rests on the next 19 minutes type of moments! Thankfully, the Phoenix got going just as the Flames discipline deserted them. On the powerplay the Phoenix got one back at 44min 36sec through Michael Psurny who had, up until that point, looked a little quiet. Kristoffersson hit back with another for the Glames about 30sec later the restore the 2 goal advantage, his goal at 45min 03sec. A big effort was needed, the crowd were up for it, creating one of the best atmospheres I think I have ever experienced at the Ice Dome. This lifted the home side and, again on the powerplay, Frankie Bakrlik scored to reduce the deficit, his goal at 46min 43sec. The Phoenix momentum continued to build as did the noise, the roof almost blew off at 47min 57sec when Bakrlik scored again. If the roof didnt blow off then, it did with 3 minutes to go. Once more on the Powerplay, with Kvetan in for a stupid high sticks penalty, Robin Kovar scored a beut of a goal at 57min 24sec to put the Phoenix ahead. The Ice Dome exploded as the home fans saw the potential of this result. With the Bison losing a win here would put the Phoenix clear at the top of the table. The noise level rose as the seconds ticked by until the final buzzer went. Phoenix win 5-4.
Verdict: It makes a difference when your team wins a game like this but, what a game! Fans of both sides said it was an epic. The game, the noise, the importance of the win all added up to a night to remember. The Phoenix had to dig deep to get back in this one but deserved the points in the end. The Flames will wonder how they didn't get anything from it but, quite simply, it was their frequent trips to the sin bin which did it! What a game! Tune in to Phoenix TV you won't be disappointed!
Attendance: Really good crowd in the Ice Dome, i'll say 1,400 in.
Phoenix 5 Flames 4 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 5 Flames 4 - Flames Article
Phoenix TV, a good one to watch:
)
The weekend was completed with the Phoenix making the short trip to Telford. Another tough game in an already tough weekend. The Phoenix dug deep again and stayed in front throughout the game, heading back north with a 5-4 win and a clear 4 point lead at the top of the EPL table.
)
Tigers 4 Phoenix 5 - Tigers Article
Tigers 4 Phoenix 5 - Phoenix Article
Tigers 4 Phoenix 5 - Shropshire Star
Phantoms 6 Phoenix 4 - Phoenix Article
Phantoms 6 Phoenix 4 - Phantoms Article
With one of the games in hand played in Peterborough, the Phoenix faced the Guildford Flames before playing the second game in hand at Telford on sunday. The Flames game on saturday would be a cracker, as they usually are between the two sides but, with the added carrot's of vital league points and the opportunity to put the Flames further out of the running. A large crowd turned up and off we went.
First Period: The game began at quite a pace with both sides creating chances and speeding about the ice. The Phoenix had most of the puck in the early stages but were not getting many/if any quality shots in on Mark Lee. Even the first period would make Phoenix TV viewing essential. The Flames would get the scoring started when Opatovsky stepped out the box, picked up a looping puck through centre ice, exchanged a one-two with Melicherik to put the puck past a prone Fone. The goal really was fantastic and great to watch, even though it was the visitors who scored it! That was the only goal of the period, while the Phoenix were behind, they had done enough to suggest they could get back in the game.
Second Period: The second period saw the Phoenix frustrated, having lots of the puck just wasn't turning into chances. The Flames playing a disciplined road game which kept the home side out. Phoenix did finally get going on the powerplay when Bakrlik unleashed a canon of a shot to leave Lee no chance, the Phoenix on the board at 26min 04sec. Parity only lasted around 3 minutes when the Flames capitalised on some lax defending to re-take the lead at 29min 11sec through Hemmings. The Phoenix tried hard through the latter half of the period but could not find a way through.
Third Period: A big effort was needed in the third period and, it couldn't have started worse for the Phoenix! Just 53sec into the period former Phoenix man Kristoffersson put the Flames 3-1 up. 2 goals back would be tough and, it was easily one of those, title challenge rests on the next 19 minutes type of moments! Thankfully, the Phoenix got going just as the Flames discipline deserted them. On the powerplay the Phoenix got one back at 44min 36sec through Michael Psurny who had, up until that point, looked a little quiet. Kristoffersson hit back with another for the Glames about 30sec later the restore the 2 goal advantage, his goal at 45min 03sec. A big effort was needed, the crowd were up for it, creating one of the best atmospheres I think I have ever experienced at the Ice Dome. This lifted the home side and, again on the powerplay, Frankie Bakrlik scored to reduce the deficit, his goal at 46min 43sec. The Phoenix momentum continued to build as did the noise, the roof almost blew off at 47min 57sec when Bakrlik scored again. If the roof didnt blow off then, it did with 3 minutes to go. Once more on the Powerplay, with Kvetan in for a stupid high sticks penalty, Robin Kovar scored a beut of a goal at 57min 24sec to put the Phoenix ahead. The Ice Dome exploded as the home fans saw the potential of this result. With the Bison losing a win here would put the Phoenix clear at the top of the table. The noise level rose as the seconds ticked by until the final buzzer went. Phoenix win 5-4.
Verdict: It makes a difference when your team wins a game like this but, what a game! Fans of both sides said it was an epic. The game, the noise, the importance of the win all added up to a night to remember. The Phoenix had to dig deep to get back in this one but deserved the points in the end. The Flames will wonder how they didn't get anything from it but, quite simply, it was their frequent trips to the sin bin which did it! What a game! Tune in to Phoenix TV you won't be disappointed!
Attendance: Really good crowd in the Ice Dome, i'll say 1,400 in.
Phoenix 5 Flames 4 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 5 Flames 4 - Flames Article
Phoenix TV, a good one to watch:
)
The weekend was completed with the Phoenix making the short trip to Telford. Another tough game in an already tough weekend. The Phoenix dug deep again and stayed in front throughout the game, heading back north with a 5-4 win and a clear 4 point lead at the top of the EPL table.
)
Tigers 4 Phoenix 5 - Tigers Article
Tigers 4 Phoenix 5 - Phoenix Article
Tigers 4 Phoenix 5 - Shropshire Star
Saturday, 4 January 2014
Phoenix v Guildford Flames 22nd December
The last weekend of games before christmas saw the Phoenix make the 'wonderful' journey to Peterborough saturday night. It has been a tumultuous time for the Phantoms recently. Coach sacked, Slava Koulikov coming in from Slough, bringing in a few players from the Hangar, some players leaving. So the best or worst time to play them? It would turn out to be a tough night for the Phoenix but, a night wich saw the away team grind out a shootout win. Worrying for Phoenix, an injury to Bakrlik saw him leave the game early.
Sunday saw current EPL champions the Guildford Flames come to the Ice Dome for their second visit of the season. The game would also be the second on the current Groupon offer so a larger crowd came to the Ice Dome. Guildford were suffering from a few injuries but, so were the Phoenix. Despite warming up Frankie Bakrlik did not ice for the game.
First Period: With the Dome rocking the puck dropped on the top of the table clash. Both teams had the prize of being number one at christmas at the end of the game. The first period saw a close chess like game from both teams, each getting some chances in on the goalies but nothing clear cut. Both Lee and Fone were keeping all early chances at bay. The officiating was, shall we say, questionable! For both teams in fact! We had a four man system in place but, as usual, that did not seem to improve the game!
Second Period: With an unusual goaless first period the second got off to a good start for the home side. With the Phoenix on the powerplay the home side set up in the Flames zone moving the puck around. With Hand on the puck, Boothroyd ghosted round the back of the Guildford box to the far post to tap in, un-challenged. Phoenix getting the first goal at 23min 54sec. The goal really ignited the atmosphere in this Pyro derby and the Ice Dome started rocking. The Phoenix started to exert some control in the game and extended their lead 4 minutes later. Michal Psurny getting the Phoenix second at 27min 26sec. Phoenix continued to control the game, with Duggan the most notable performer for the Flames. With 30sec to go in the period Robin Kovar capped off an impressive second stanza for the home team.
Third Period: 3-0 with one to go is a good position to be in but, you cannot count the Flames out. While they were missing Kristoffersson and Huppe there was still more than enough talent on that bench to get back into the game. The next goal would be crucial and, it was the Phoenix who got it. James Archer scoring a neat powerplay goal after some precise passing. The 4th goal coming at 48min 22sec. The Phoenix extended their lead soon after, you have to watch Phoenix TV for this one! Robin Kovar broke down the left win, held off a Flames player and slotted the puck past Lee for a beut of a goal at 49min 44sec. Flames heads visibly dropped and the game was done. The Phoenix had to work hard still to keep the Flames out, in an effort to give Fone the big SO! Robert Schnabel capped off an impressive victory with a booming slapshot from the blue line at 52min 01sec.
Verdict: Big crowd, big performance and a big win! Phoenix will be number one for Christmas! While the Flames bench was depleted that takes nothing away from a superb Phoenix performance. This will be a game the players and fans will savour!
Attendance: Biggest of the season probably, i'll guess at 1,800 in the Ice Dome.
Phoenix 6 Guildford 0 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 6 Guildford 0 - Flames Article
Phoenix 6 Guildford 0 - MEN
Phoenix 6 Guildford 0 - Sky Sports
Phoenix 6 Guildford 0 - Get Surrey
Sunday saw current EPL champions the Guildford Flames come to the Ice Dome for their second visit of the season. The game would also be the second on the current Groupon offer so a larger crowd came to the Ice Dome. Guildford were suffering from a few injuries but, so were the Phoenix. Despite warming up Frankie Bakrlik did not ice for the game.
First Period: With the Dome rocking the puck dropped on the top of the table clash. Both teams had the prize of being number one at christmas at the end of the game. The first period saw a close chess like game from both teams, each getting some chances in on the goalies but nothing clear cut. Both Lee and Fone were keeping all early chances at bay. The officiating was, shall we say, questionable! For both teams in fact! We had a four man system in place but, as usual, that did not seem to improve the game!
Second Period: With an unusual goaless first period the second got off to a good start for the home side. With the Phoenix on the powerplay the home side set up in the Flames zone moving the puck around. With Hand on the puck, Boothroyd ghosted round the back of the Guildford box to the far post to tap in, un-challenged. Phoenix getting the first goal at 23min 54sec. The goal really ignited the atmosphere in this Pyro derby and the Ice Dome started rocking. The Phoenix started to exert some control in the game and extended their lead 4 minutes later. Michal Psurny getting the Phoenix second at 27min 26sec. Phoenix continued to control the game, with Duggan the most notable performer for the Flames. With 30sec to go in the period Robin Kovar capped off an impressive second stanza for the home team.
Third Period: 3-0 with one to go is a good position to be in but, you cannot count the Flames out. While they were missing Kristoffersson and Huppe there was still more than enough talent on that bench to get back into the game. The next goal would be crucial and, it was the Phoenix who got it. James Archer scoring a neat powerplay goal after some precise passing. The 4th goal coming at 48min 22sec. The Phoenix extended their lead soon after, you have to watch Phoenix TV for this one! Robin Kovar broke down the left win, held off a Flames player and slotted the puck past Lee for a beut of a goal at 49min 44sec. Flames heads visibly dropped and the game was done. The Phoenix had to work hard still to keep the Flames out, in an effort to give Fone the big SO! Robert Schnabel capped off an impressive victory with a booming slapshot from the blue line at 52min 01sec.
Verdict: Big crowd, big performance and a big win! Phoenix will be number one for Christmas! While the Flames bench was depleted that takes nothing away from a superb Phoenix performance. This will be a game the players and fans will savour!
Attendance: Biggest of the season probably, i'll guess at 1,800 in the Ice Dome.
Phoenix 6 Guildford 0 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 6 Guildford 0 - Flames Article
Phoenix 6 Guildford 0 - MEN
Phoenix 6 Guildford 0 - Sky Sports
Phoenix 6 Guildford 0 - Get Surrey
Monday, 14 October 2013
Phoenix v Guildford Flames 13th October
The weekend just gone saw the Phoenix unbeaten start put under its sternest test yet. After going a perfect 8 and 0 the Phoenix had a weekend double header against, last seasons EPL Champions and the current 2nd placed team, the Guildford Flames. The Flames, as @jonthatcher pointed out, the Phoenix B team now contains many former Phoenix alumni:
Curtis Huppe
Marcus Kristoffersson
Andrew Sharp
Dean Holland
Tom Duggan
Games between the two sides are eagerly anticipated as, both teams set out to play hockey. There is physicality but the hockey comes first. Both teams will play the game at speed, with skill, and for the full 60 minutes. I know I look forward to them! The first game of the weekend would see the Phoenix take to the Spectrum ice in Guildford. The game sounded like another corker, despite the low score in the end. It had, almost everything, a late penalty shot missed by the Phoenix and, a late late winner from a former Phoenix favourite. Duggan with the late goal to break Phoenix heats. The game finishing 3-2 Guildford.
Off we went to the Ice Dome for the return fixture in Altrincham. Some were nervous, I wasn't to be honest! I knew Phoenix/Flames games were entertaining and hockey would take the priority. I am ok losing to a team who wins by playing damn good hockey and, with Guildford, you know that's what you are going to get! Obviously I hoped we would win, I thought we could given how strong the team is this year but, you never know!
First Period: After a warm welcome back for Kristoffersson and Duggan the game got underway at its customary frenetic pace! The strength in depth on the Flames bench is something scary, three very strong lines can be iced and any team, ourselves included, have to be at their best. Thankfully the home side were and, while not dominating the game as they had so far this season, were able to compete with the Flames. Both sides played hard and some of the hockey on show was fantastic. The Phoenix took the lead at 6min 02sec when Tony Hand found some space and fired a low shot through Hadfield's 5-hole. This definitely fired up the Flames, who then began to pressure the Phoenix net. Guildford began to dominate the game and, were it not for some sloppy effort in front of goal, they would have been a few goals up. Duggan and Kristoffersson guilty of wasting some great chances. The Flames did get on the board and even up the game at 13min 18sec when Campbel scored finally getting the puck past Fone. Guildford continued to have the better chances but, the Phoenix were able to hold on and go into the interval tied at 1.
Second Period: The Phoenix needed to find their gears to get back into the game and to impose themselves on home ice. The break did the Phoenix good and, after getting back onto the Ice early were raring to go. The opening exchanges were relatively even again and, as a result, the two sides traded goals early in the period. Phoenix scored first through McKinnie with a great top corner finish at 21min 22sec, the joy was short-lived however, as under a minute later the Flames equalised...again! Former Phoenix player Tom Duggan with the goal at 22min 09sec. In truth it was a great goal from the Flames. Duggan was found bursting into the Phoenix zone and then lifted the puck, on his back hand, over Fone into the roof of the net. While the Phoenix were steadily edging the period the Flames would take their first lead of the game. Another former Phoenix man, Dean Holland scored the Flames go-ahead goal at 26min 57sec. The goal really snapped the Phoenix into gear as the goal provoked an un-answered three goal haul for the home side. Michal Psurny tied things up at 27min 55sec. Then, after the officials had finally realised there were two teams on the ice and called a penalty on the Flames, the Phoenix got a powerplay goal. The Flames were protecting the hash marks very well and Boother was taking some punishment in front of goal. Even so, he took a pass and, even with a heft check, managed to do a spin-o-rama, shoot, and find the bottom right corner. The goal put the Phoenix back in front, timed at 32min 51sec. With the scores at 4-3 the Phoenix scored again with 52 sec left on the clock, almost the perfect time to score. Robin Kovar getting the Phoenix 5th at 39min 08sec.
Third Period: The score 5-3, 20 minutes to go, this game was far from over. The late goal in the second was a massive boost for the Phoenix but, as fans across the EPL will know, Guildford are stacked with fire-power. Two goals would not be un-achievable for the Flames! The third began and the Phoenix kept on their improving form from the second period. They were able to compete and edge the play against the Flames, when the Flames did get chances they found Fone in top form. Both sides were still missing the odd chance which would usually be put away. The next goal would be crucial *ding* (taken from the hockey cliche book). The goal came for the home side and the Phoenix made it 6-3 at 50min 13sec when Michal Psurny got his second of the game. With the passing of each minute the noise began to rise as the home fans began to countdown the time with excitement. Guildford would act the villain one more time when Marcus Kristoffersson scored their 4th of the night at 56min 52sec, This years Phoenix team is made of sterner stuff when compared with vintage 12/13. Last years team could have succumbed to the pressure but not this years variety. There is much more resolve and determination in these boys. The game was sealed with two minutes to go when Psurny got his hat trick goal at 58min 05sec. That would be the last goal of the game and the Phoenix held on for the win!
Verdict: As mentioned at the beginning of this post, Phoenix/Flames games are anticipated highly by both fan bases and, this past weekend did not disappoint. If you have the time, make sure you look out for the highlights packages for both games this weekend. Some of the hockey played in Altrincham was fantastic! Guildford showed their awesome power in the first and were un-lucky not to have taken a lead into the first intermission. The new levels of determination from the Phoenix is a big reason why they couldn't! In fact with the Phoenix having the better of the second/third periods the scoreline in the end was a fair reflection. Tony managed to keep a lid on Bakrlik despite the intense provocation from the Flames. The Phoenix penalty kill performed very well and did not concede while, the powerplay unit made use of their one opportunity. In the end a hard fought and deserved win which keeps the Phoenix at the top of the pile.
Attendance: A good crowd came to watch the fun, i'll say about 1,200 in the Ice Dome.
Phoenix 7 Guildford 4 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 7 Guildford 4 - Flames Article
Curtis Huppe
Marcus Kristoffersson
Andrew Sharp
Dean Holland
Tom Duggan
Games between the two sides are eagerly anticipated as, both teams set out to play hockey. There is physicality but the hockey comes first. Both teams will play the game at speed, with skill, and for the full 60 minutes. I know I look forward to them! The first game of the weekend would see the Phoenix take to the Spectrum ice in Guildford. The game sounded like another corker, despite the low score in the end. It had, almost everything, a late penalty shot missed by the Phoenix and, a late late winner from a former Phoenix favourite. Duggan with the late goal to break Phoenix heats. The game finishing 3-2 Guildford.
Off we went to the Ice Dome for the return fixture in Altrincham. Some were nervous, I wasn't to be honest! I knew Phoenix/Flames games were entertaining and hockey would take the priority. I am ok losing to a team who wins by playing damn good hockey and, with Guildford, you know that's what you are going to get! Obviously I hoped we would win, I thought we could given how strong the team is this year but, you never know!
First Period: After a warm welcome back for Kristoffersson and Duggan the game got underway at its customary frenetic pace! The strength in depth on the Flames bench is something scary, three very strong lines can be iced and any team, ourselves included, have to be at their best. Thankfully the home side were and, while not dominating the game as they had so far this season, were able to compete with the Flames. Both sides played hard and some of the hockey on show was fantastic. The Phoenix took the lead at 6min 02sec when Tony Hand found some space and fired a low shot through Hadfield's 5-hole. This definitely fired up the Flames, who then began to pressure the Phoenix net. Guildford began to dominate the game and, were it not for some sloppy effort in front of goal, they would have been a few goals up. Duggan and Kristoffersson guilty of wasting some great chances. The Flames did get on the board and even up the game at 13min 18sec when Campbel scored finally getting the puck past Fone. Guildford continued to have the better chances but, the Phoenix were able to hold on and go into the interval tied at 1.
Second Period: The Phoenix needed to find their gears to get back into the game and to impose themselves on home ice. The break did the Phoenix good and, after getting back onto the Ice early were raring to go. The opening exchanges were relatively even again and, as a result, the two sides traded goals early in the period. Phoenix scored first through McKinnie with a great top corner finish at 21min 22sec, the joy was short-lived however, as under a minute later the Flames equalised...again! Former Phoenix player Tom Duggan with the goal at 22min 09sec. In truth it was a great goal from the Flames. Duggan was found bursting into the Phoenix zone and then lifted the puck, on his back hand, over Fone into the roof of the net. While the Phoenix were steadily edging the period the Flames would take their first lead of the game. Another former Phoenix man, Dean Holland scored the Flames go-ahead goal at 26min 57sec. The goal really snapped the Phoenix into gear as the goal provoked an un-answered three goal haul for the home side. Michal Psurny tied things up at 27min 55sec. Then, after the officials had finally realised there were two teams on the ice and called a penalty on the Flames, the Phoenix got a powerplay goal. The Flames were protecting the hash marks very well and Boother was taking some punishment in front of goal. Even so, he took a pass and, even with a heft check, managed to do a spin-o-rama, shoot, and find the bottom right corner. The goal put the Phoenix back in front, timed at 32min 51sec. With the scores at 4-3 the Phoenix scored again with 52 sec left on the clock, almost the perfect time to score. Robin Kovar getting the Phoenix 5th at 39min 08sec.
Third Period: The score 5-3, 20 minutes to go, this game was far from over. The late goal in the second was a massive boost for the Phoenix but, as fans across the EPL will know, Guildford are stacked with fire-power. Two goals would not be un-achievable for the Flames! The third began and the Phoenix kept on their improving form from the second period. They were able to compete and edge the play against the Flames, when the Flames did get chances they found Fone in top form. Both sides were still missing the odd chance which would usually be put away. The next goal would be crucial *ding* (taken from the hockey cliche book). The goal came for the home side and the Phoenix made it 6-3 at 50min 13sec when Michal Psurny got his second of the game. With the passing of each minute the noise began to rise as the home fans began to countdown the time with excitement. Guildford would act the villain one more time when Marcus Kristoffersson scored their 4th of the night at 56min 52sec, This years Phoenix team is made of sterner stuff when compared with vintage 12/13. Last years team could have succumbed to the pressure but not this years variety. There is much more resolve and determination in these boys. The game was sealed with two minutes to go when Psurny got his hat trick goal at 58min 05sec. That would be the last goal of the game and the Phoenix held on for the win!
Verdict: As mentioned at the beginning of this post, Phoenix/Flames games are anticipated highly by both fan bases and, this past weekend did not disappoint. If you have the time, make sure you look out for the highlights packages for both games this weekend. Some of the hockey played in Altrincham was fantastic! Guildford showed their awesome power in the first and were un-lucky not to have taken a lead into the first intermission. The new levels of determination from the Phoenix is a big reason why they couldn't! In fact with the Phoenix having the better of the second/third periods the scoreline in the end was a fair reflection. Tony managed to keep a lid on Bakrlik despite the intense provocation from the Flames. The Phoenix penalty kill performed very well and did not concede while, the powerplay unit made use of their one opportunity. In the end a hard fought and deserved win which keeps the Phoenix at the top of the pile.
Attendance: A good crowd came to watch the fun, i'll say about 1,200 in the Ice Dome.
Phoenix 7 Guildford 4 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 7 Guildford 4 - Flames Article
Thursday, 13 June 2013
Steady Eddies Return
After the excitement of the Phoenix first re-building announcement the Phoenix followed that up by announcing two returning Brit's to the roster. Captain fantastic and goal scoring machine Luke Boothroyd and hard man winger James Archer. Both players were always likely to return to the Phoenix but, especially in Boothroyd's case, there is always the worry the club will lose them to the EIHL.
Forward - James Archer
Despite a bit of a slow start James ended the 12-13 season with his highest season points tally with the Phoenix and, one of the highest in his career. He is not a flashy player or overly skillful but he packs one hell of a punch. Difficult to move off the puck, James has a good hockey mind to get in the right place at the right time. His 12/13 season finished with a point per game average, pretty good for a second line winger. Ideally I would like to see him edge up that average in the coming year.
Defence - Luke Boothroyd
Captain fantastic, returns for a 6th season with the Phoenix and, possibly, 5th as captain. One of the solid rocks in the EPL Luke gives the Phoenix such a cool/calm head on the blue line. Partnered with Schanbel he formed an impressive pairing. Not only known for his defencive abilities, 12/13 marked Luke out as being a danger on the powerplay. Intelligent with the puck Luke had a career year last year and really proved he could be one of the few Brit EPL players who could handle the step up to the EIHL.
So that's three forwards (four including Sir Toe Knee) and one defenceman announced so far. While there is a long way to go in terms of roster building, the Phoenix are looking good so far.
The time between this announcement and the writing of this blog post, the joy has been tempered somewhat by the news Tom Duggan will not be returning to the Phoenix for a fourth season. He was announced as a Guildford Flames player for the 13/14 season
I am gutted Tom has left but, as someone said on one of the hockey forums, 'he was only ever on loan at the Phoenix while at university up here' so, with his last exam completed I guess it was a matter of time before his return south. Tom has been a consistent performer for the Phoenix and definitely a player who plays for the badge on the front rather than the name on the back. Thanks for all your efforts Tom, you will always be welcome in Altrincham.
Forward - James Archer
Despite a bit of a slow start James ended the 12-13 season with his highest season points tally with the Phoenix and, one of the highest in his career. He is not a flashy player or overly skillful but he packs one hell of a punch. Difficult to move off the puck, James has a good hockey mind to get in the right place at the right time. His 12/13 season finished with a point per game average, pretty good for a second line winger. Ideally I would like to see him edge up that average in the coming year.
Defence - Luke Boothroyd
Captain fantastic, returns for a 6th season with the Phoenix and, possibly, 5th as captain. One of the solid rocks in the EPL Luke gives the Phoenix such a cool/calm head on the blue line. Partnered with Schanbel he formed an impressive pairing. Not only known for his defencive abilities, 12/13 marked Luke out as being a danger on the powerplay. Intelligent with the puck Luke had a career year last year and really proved he could be one of the few Brit EPL players who could handle the step up to the EIHL.
So that's three forwards (four including Sir Toe Knee) and one defenceman announced so far. While there is a long way to go in terms of roster building, the Phoenix are looking good so far.
The time between this announcement and the writing of this blog post, the joy has been tempered somewhat by the news Tom Duggan will not be returning to the Phoenix for a fourth season. He was announced as a Guildford Flames player for the 13/14 season
I am gutted Tom has left but, as someone said on one of the hockey forums, 'he was only ever on loan at the Phoenix while at university up here' so, with his last exam completed I guess it was a matter of time before his return south. Tom has been a consistent performer for the Phoenix and definitely a player who plays for the badge on the front rather than the name on the back. Thanks for all your efforts Tom, you will always be welcome in Altrincham.
Tuesday, 16 April 2013
Phoenix rise from the Flames to win Finals weekend!
'The Phoenix had, against the best team in the land, won the final dance of the season'
Re-wind about 24 hours and those same fans were filing into the Coventry SkyDome to watch the second semi-final of the day between the Basingstoke Bison and the Manchester Phoenix. Earlier in the day, the league winners, the Guildford Flames, had come through their encounter with the MK Lightning. The Flames did what title winning sides can do, win while not playing their best. Standing in the way of the Phoenix meeting them in Sunday's final were the Basingstoke Bison. A team the Phoenix had only beaten once this season and a team with possibly the league’s best goalie between the pipes.
On the flip side, the Phoenix could go into this game with little to lose. Most people in the arena would expect the Bison to win. So there was little expectation for us Phoenix fan's. Personally I thought we had a chance, but a small one. All would depend on the mood of the Bison goalie and what Manchester Phoenix would turn up. A fully fit, for once, Phoenix squad took the ice and took the game to the Bison. Scoring the first goal, I think, surprised a lot of people. The game was a close affair, the Phoenix played some good hockey and the game remained close throughout. After a 5 minute overtime session that produced no goals we went to the lottery of a penalty shootout. At this point I must admit to giving up a little bit. There was no way we could get past Lyle in the Bison goal on penalty shots? Surely? The first round saw each team score twice so extra shooters were needed. Phoenix went first through James Archer, attacking the goal at the far end from us Phoenix fans, James went up ice, deked and as Lyle slid across, time seemed to slow. After what felt like an age the red light went on, we all jumped up and exploded with delight, we knew that the Bison had to score or we were in the final. The Bison player/coach Doug Sheppherd would take the crucial shot. He attacks the goal right in-front of us, comes in, puts a fake on Fone in our goal and lifts the puck...........clang..........the puck hits the plexi behind the goal....no goal....no goal. Phoenix are through to the final and we all went mad!
Sunday saw many a sore head come back for the final. The Phoenix second appearance at the final game in as many years. This time, our lads would take on the league winners. Guildford Flames are the big spenders of our hockey league and as a result have strength in depth like no other. We are allowed 4 'import' players, Guildford have 5 and some of the top British players in this country. On paper the Flames have the obvious advantage but, one thing in our favour, the Flames like to play hockey. In games of proper hockey the Phoenix always have a chance! It would be tough but, the Phoenix had a great chance of securing a different outcome to that final 12 months ago.
In the run up to the game it was obvious that, every supporter in the arena, bar Guildford fans, wanted the Phoenix to win. 'Anyone but Guildford, anyone but Guildford la laa laa laa' was the chant. Which gave us a great feeling, we had all the support, we just hoped our guys could put on a show now!
Against the Guildford Flames, the Phoenix always bring out their best. These games are great adverts for Ice Hockey in this country and the final was no different. From the first puck drop both sides went at the game fast and strong. From the early exchanges the Phoenix were edging the play. Even surprising the Flames are how hard they came playing. To win the trophy the Phoenix really needed to score first and they did, on the power play too! The arena erupted as the Phoenix fans at one end went mad. The teams captain Luke Boothroyd ghosted round the back of the play to be found open for a back post tap in. Great goal! The Phoenix continued to press and forecheck the Flames while not allowing a goal. By the end of the first session the Phoenix were ahead 1-0.
The Phoenix carried on their great form and struck hard in the second period with James Archer scoring a fantastic breakaway effort, then the Phoenix scored a real heart breaker for the Flames. A short handed effort from Barri McKenzie.
Flames needed a quick start to the third and they got it, scoring just 40 seconds into the period. Us Phoenix fans started looking at each other with some nerves hoping this was not the start of a comeback! We needn't have worried! A perfect reply to the Flames goal, the Phoenix scored another shorthanded effort. Tony Hand skating in was passed the puck and, just around the faceoff spot unleashed a howitzer of a slapshot high above Mark Lee (Guildford goalie) right shoulder. In a rare show of emotions from Tony he jumped up into the plexi in front of us. We all knew how big that goal was! To make things even better, Phoenix standout import forward Michal Psurny scored and exact replica of Hand's earlier effort to make it 5-1 Phoenix. This is when we really believed and, despite the Flames pulling a goal back, with the clock running down the team and fans alike began to revel in victory. When the final buzzer went we all went mad. 10 years or the Phoenix, so many times the bridesmaids or the nearly men, the Phoenix had done it and won their first playoff trophy.
The feeling after the game and in the pub's after was of shock, after so many years we had actually done it, actually won! We were all just relaxing and smiling. Sad that the 2012/13 EPL season had now ended but, what a way for it to end! I only hope the pictures show how much fun we had!
Thanks must go to Richard Allen, official Phoenix photographer for the pictures!
Saturday, 9 March 2013
Phoenix v Guildford Flames EPL Cup 2nd Leg 2nd March Game Review
Last Saturday saw the 2nd leg of the EPL Cup semi-final between the Phoenix and Flames, up in Manchester we were getting ready for another edition of the Pyro Derby. The score from the first leg was 6-4 Flames which, given the Phoenix squad at the time, was a damn good effort. Two goals were doable for the Phoenix but, it would take a massive effort to overcome the men from Guildford.
First Period: A smaller than expected crowd turned out for saturday night's game but those in attendance, make some noise! The game got underway, Lee in net for Guildford and Jazzy in net for the Phoenix. The play was no different to others in the Pyro derby, end to end, quality hockey, with the Phoenix shading it just about. With the Phoenix slowly taking the game the first goal game as a right sucker punch. You could feel the collective sigh in the Phoenix faithful when Huppe scored through Jazzy's 5-hole to put the Flames ahead. Most people in the Dome, myself included, knew it would be tough, the Flames getting the first goal? That mountain was looking damn high right about now. The team, to give them credit, didn't loose heart, they regrouped and took the game to Guildford searching for their first goal.
Second Period: The Phoenix had to wait until the second session to get themselves onto the scoreboard. They did it with a bang too and, in doing so, re-invigorated the home crowd. Pozivil got the first at 24min 22sec then, when Guildford helpfully picked up a penalty, the Phoenix took the lead at 24min 50sec'ish when Psurny scored. This reduced the overall deficit to one goal. From here on the two teams began to trade goals. Flames scored on the powerplay through Nathan Rempel midway through the second session. The Phoenix were working hard but, just couldn't get that daylight with the Flames on the overall scores.
Third Period: All square on the night, Flames ahead by two, one 20min session to go. The Phoenix upped the work rate and Guildford sat back to absorb all the pressure, hitting Phoenix on the break. Which is all they had to do to be fair, Lee was doing his usual standing on his head routine and the usual histrionics. Phoenix went ahead through James Archer at 42min 26sec, the Phoenix then pressed for another goal. But Guildford would score again to ease their worries. Rempel again netting at 50min 44sec. The Phoenix would set up a barnstorming finish when Psurny scored another powerplay goal at 55min 19sec. The Phoenix pressed and pressed but couldn't make the breakthrough. Finalscore 4-3 Phoenix on the night but 8-9 on aggregate.
Verdict: Gutted to have come so close but lost but, massive credit to the Phoenix. They had been struggling for form recently but really came out and owned the game. Guildford are a quality quality team though and never let the game get too far ahead of them. They will do well and will probably win the cup against the Jets. The Phoenix though, can hold their heads high, it was a great performance and one to take into sunday night's game versus the Bison.
Attendance: Not the best crowd, conversely sunday night's game was expected to be a sell-out! Ill guess at 800 in the Ice Dome.
Phoenix 4 Guildford 3 (8-9) - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 4 Guildford 3 (8-9) - Flames Article
First Period: A smaller than expected crowd turned out for saturday night's game but those in attendance, make some noise! The game got underway, Lee in net for Guildford and Jazzy in net for the Phoenix. The play was no different to others in the Pyro derby, end to end, quality hockey, with the Phoenix shading it just about. With the Phoenix slowly taking the game the first goal game as a right sucker punch. You could feel the collective sigh in the Phoenix faithful when Huppe scored through Jazzy's 5-hole to put the Flames ahead. Most people in the Dome, myself included, knew it would be tough, the Flames getting the first goal? That mountain was looking damn high right about now. The team, to give them credit, didn't loose heart, they regrouped and took the game to Guildford searching for their first goal.
Second Period: The Phoenix had to wait until the second session to get themselves onto the scoreboard. They did it with a bang too and, in doing so, re-invigorated the home crowd. Pozivil got the first at 24min 22sec then, when Guildford helpfully picked up a penalty, the Phoenix took the lead at 24min 50sec'ish when Psurny scored. This reduced the overall deficit to one goal. From here on the two teams began to trade goals. Flames scored on the powerplay through Nathan Rempel midway through the second session. The Phoenix were working hard but, just couldn't get that daylight with the Flames on the overall scores.
Third Period: All square on the night, Flames ahead by two, one 20min session to go. The Phoenix upped the work rate and Guildford sat back to absorb all the pressure, hitting Phoenix on the break. Which is all they had to do to be fair, Lee was doing his usual standing on his head routine and the usual histrionics. Phoenix went ahead through James Archer at 42min 26sec, the Phoenix then pressed for another goal. But Guildford would score again to ease their worries. Rempel again netting at 50min 44sec. The Phoenix would set up a barnstorming finish when Psurny scored another powerplay goal at 55min 19sec. The Phoenix pressed and pressed but couldn't make the breakthrough. Finalscore 4-3 Phoenix on the night but 8-9 on aggregate.
Verdict: Gutted to have come so close but lost but, massive credit to the Phoenix. They had been struggling for form recently but really came out and owned the game. Guildford are a quality quality team though and never let the game get too far ahead of them. They will do well and will probably win the cup against the Jets. The Phoenix though, can hold their heads high, it was a great performance and one to take into sunday night's game versus the Bison.
Attendance: Not the best crowd, conversely sunday night's game was expected to be a sell-out! Ill guess at 800 in the Ice Dome.
Phoenix 4 Guildford 3 (8-9) - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 4 Guildford 3 (8-9) - Flames Article
Thursday, 21 February 2013
Phoenix v Guildford Flames 17th February Game Review
The Phoenix current form is poor, theres now two ways about it! The current run has coincided with the head coach leaving to handle team GB, a long injury to Flaten and a long period of continuing absence for Phoenix number 1 goalie Steve Fone. For the past month or so El-Hage has been standing in and, considering he is a young backup goalie, he is working damn hard. Sadly all those circumstances has seen the Phoenix on a run of form rivalling the Telford Tigers at the foot of the EPL.
Perhaps, given all that, the Flames are the last team you would want to be facing but, at the same time they are the best. They are a team the loves to play hockey and, given how strong they are they would force the Phoenix to play their best from the first puck drop. This game fell slap bang in the middle of the school holidays which helped swell the crowd to the biggest of the season. Here's hoping the performance on the ice would match!
First Period: The crowd were in fine form and the game opened to some great noise from the stands. The hockey on the ice was up to the usual Pyro derby standards too. Great end to end action, Lee in the Flames net in fine form as the Phoenix pressed for the opener. The Flames would be the first to light the lamp though, Huppe broke into the Flames zone and, possibly the first time since he was thrust into the starters position El-Hage made a mistake. Allowed a gap to appear under his stick and Huppe gratefully slotted home. First goal timed at 3min 55sec. The game progressed, thankfully the early Flames goal didn't dishearten the Phoenix and they were back on level terms at 9min 21sec when Psurny scored. The period went on and both sides exchanged chances but no further goals.
Second Period: The Phoenix went into the first intermission on the powerplay, something this blog has moaned about in the past. Phoenix got the best start to the third period they could get. Cycling the puck round the boards, Boothroyd ghosted towards the back post and, after being found by Hand, scored in the empty net. His goal on the powerplay coming just 24 seconds into the period. The Phoenix continued to work hard and the Flames did their bit in the game. The Flames were dangerous on the break and looked to exploit the inexperienced El-Hage in goal. The Flames would take advantage of this and wrest control of the game from the Phoenix. Milos Melicherik scored the flames second to tie the game at 32min 51sec. Then Longstaff, was allowed time to bring the puck out from behind the goal, turn, and fire a shot past El-Hage, definitely a goal he will want back. The go ahead goal coming at 37min 20sec. Going into the second break Flames lead 3 goals to 2.
Third Period: The Phoenix had to press in the third period whilst also being mindful not to leave El-Hage out to dry. The Phoenix pressed and began to dominate the play, no clear chances on Lee came though and the period wore on. The big crowd was still in the game and worked to get the Phoenix fired up and score the goal. As time ticked by the Phoenix pressed and pressed, but the Flames would score the last, and most deflating goal, of the game. Heading into the final minute Kvetan had the puck and fired a hard clearance up ice, which hit the plexi behind El-Hage, only for it to bounce back and into the Phoenix net off El-Hage's back. So unfortunate and, in all my years of watching/playing Ice Hockey, I have only ever seen that type of goal scored twice! The final goal coming at 59min 10sec.
Verdict: Gutted to lose but, well done to the Flames they worked hard for the win the Phoenix, equally, did their bit. A point would have been deserved, definitely not the last goal though! This game brought the best out of the Phoenix and they were mightily unlucky to come from the game with a big fat zero. The big crowd was awesome too, I had two groups of newbies there and both, despite the result, are hooked and can't wait to come back.
Attendance: I've been reliably informed it was the biggest crowd of the season, looked it too. Im going to say around 1,800 in the Ice Dome.
Phoenix 2 Flames 4 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 2 Flames 4 - Flames Article
Perhaps, given all that, the Flames are the last team you would want to be facing but, at the same time they are the best. They are a team the loves to play hockey and, given how strong they are they would force the Phoenix to play their best from the first puck drop. This game fell slap bang in the middle of the school holidays which helped swell the crowd to the biggest of the season. Here's hoping the performance on the ice would match!
First Period: The crowd were in fine form and the game opened to some great noise from the stands. The hockey on the ice was up to the usual Pyro derby standards too. Great end to end action, Lee in the Flames net in fine form as the Phoenix pressed for the opener. The Flames would be the first to light the lamp though, Huppe broke into the Flames zone and, possibly the first time since he was thrust into the starters position El-Hage made a mistake. Allowed a gap to appear under his stick and Huppe gratefully slotted home. First goal timed at 3min 55sec. The game progressed, thankfully the early Flames goal didn't dishearten the Phoenix and they were back on level terms at 9min 21sec when Psurny scored. The period went on and both sides exchanged chances but no further goals.
Second Period: The Phoenix went into the first intermission on the powerplay, something this blog has moaned about in the past. Phoenix got the best start to the third period they could get. Cycling the puck round the boards, Boothroyd ghosted towards the back post and, after being found by Hand, scored in the empty net. His goal on the powerplay coming just 24 seconds into the period. The Phoenix continued to work hard and the Flames did their bit in the game. The Flames were dangerous on the break and looked to exploit the inexperienced El-Hage in goal. The Flames would take advantage of this and wrest control of the game from the Phoenix. Milos Melicherik scored the flames second to tie the game at 32min 51sec. Then Longstaff, was allowed time to bring the puck out from behind the goal, turn, and fire a shot past El-Hage, definitely a goal he will want back. The go ahead goal coming at 37min 20sec. Going into the second break Flames lead 3 goals to 2.
Third Period: The Phoenix had to press in the third period whilst also being mindful not to leave El-Hage out to dry. The Phoenix pressed and began to dominate the play, no clear chances on Lee came though and the period wore on. The big crowd was still in the game and worked to get the Phoenix fired up and score the goal. As time ticked by the Phoenix pressed and pressed, but the Flames would score the last, and most deflating goal, of the game. Heading into the final minute Kvetan had the puck and fired a hard clearance up ice, which hit the plexi behind El-Hage, only for it to bounce back and into the Phoenix net off El-Hage's back. So unfortunate and, in all my years of watching/playing Ice Hockey, I have only ever seen that type of goal scored twice! The final goal coming at 59min 10sec.
Verdict: Gutted to lose but, well done to the Flames they worked hard for the win the Phoenix, equally, did their bit. A point would have been deserved, definitely not the last goal though! This game brought the best out of the Phoenix and they were mightily unlucky to come from the game with a big fat zero. The big crowd was awesome too, I had two groups of newbies there and both, despite the result, are hooked and can't wait to come back.
Attendance: I've been reliably informed it was the biggest crowd of the season, looked it too. Im going to say around 1,800 in the Ice Dome.
Phoenix 2 Flames 4 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 2 Flames 4 - Flames 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
Thursday, 18 October 2012
Phoenix v Guildford Flames 14th October Game Review
Last weekend was a pretty big one for the Phoenix in the early stages of this EPL season. An away/home double header against last seasons EPL champions. Games between the two clubs are always damn good entertainment and there is some real quality hockey played. For these weekends I would always want at least two points, preferably a home win. Anything more is a bonus.
The game down in Guildford was a surprise, the Phoenix came away with a 4-2 win with the last one being an ENG. Going into the game the Flames were suffering from a bit of a wobble in terms of form so, perhaps, the Phoenix caught them at the right time! Sundays home game would see one of two things, the Phoenix would grind out another win for a brilliant 4 point weekend or, the Flames would subject the Phoenix to a backlash and restore parity in the weekend. The latter having happened before!
Highlights of the Flames v Phoenix game:
So, sunday rolls round and it's off to the Ice Dome for the #PyroDerby!
First Period: As has become the norm for games against the Flames the opening was tight, fast and end to end. With Fone and Lee called upon early to prevents goals going in. Both sides were playing some flowing hockey that would convert any newbie into a hockey fan. Just listen to the podcast for the guy who was attending his first game! Games like these will often be decided on a slip or mistake and the first goal came from one. I think it was Schnabel down on the boards in the Flames zone who coughed up the puck and the Flames broke down ice. Some lovely passing saw the puck find Huppe who unleashed a beautiful one time to beat Fone. This goal would be the only of the period, despite the Phoenix applying heavy pressure to the Flames goal.
Second Period: The game started to heat up (pun intended) in the second period, and most of the chances were falling to the Phoenix as they worked to get on level terms. The first Phoenix goal did come and fell to Scott McKenzie at 26min 38sec, the goal a deserved reward for his hard work in the game. Less than 4 minutes later the Phoenix took the lead. Psurny adding to his tally and early season form with a goal at 30min 32sec. The Flames, once again, proved their quality when Rempel leveled the game to ensure the Phoenix didn't take the game in the second session. Both goals came from lapses in Phoenix concentration which, no doubt, Tony Hand will be disappointed with.
Third Period: The third period resumed as both sides went in search of the winner. Mark Lee and Stephen Fone were both putting in stellar performances to keep the puck out, you could argue Lee was having to do more work but, he was still keeping the puck out. The Phoenix kept up the pressure and were rewarded at 47min 11sec when Psurny got his second of the game. With the Phoenix ahead and the clock winding down the Flames began to up their intensity. They became more physical and began to try a few more risky plays for the leveler With less than a minute to go they would snatch a dramatic equalizer when Hemmings forced the puck past Fone to tie the game with 54 seconds to go.
Overtime: The 4 on 4 period included a penalty kill for the Phoenix with Schnabel in the box. Despite a few hairy moments the Phoenix managed to kill off the penalty and exert some of their own pressure. With a fortunate bounce the Phoenix attacked and Flaten was found free on goal and scored the winner. The Ice Dome erupted and the Phoenix completed a brilliant 4 point weekend over the Flames.
Verdict: What a game, any newbie in last night will be hooked! The game was fast, skilful, end to end and, more importantly, a quality hockey game between two title challenging sides. The Flames will be disappointed to come out of this weekend dropping 3 points to a title rival. How important they could be come the seasons end. The Phoenix played their best hockey sunday night, Psurny and Flaten continue to impress and the rest of the team are really catching form now.
Attendance: Flames games tend to bring extra fans through the door so I will say around 1,100 in.
Guildford 2 Phoenix 4 - Phoenix Article
Guildford 2 Phoenix 4 - Flames Article
Phoenix 4 Guildford 3 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 4 Guildford 3 - Flames Article
The game down in Guildford was a surprise, the Phoenix came away with a 4-2 win with the last one being an ENG. Going into the game the Flames were suffering from a bit of a wobble in terms of form so, perhaps, the Phoenix caught them at the right time! Sundays home game would see one of two things, the Phoenix would grind out another win for a brilliant 4 point weekend or, the Flames would subject the Phoenix to a backlash and restore parity in the weekend. The latter having happened before!
Highlights of the Flames v Phoenix game:
So, sunday rolls round and it's off to the Ice Dome for the #PyroDerby!
First Period: As has become the norm for games against the Flames the opening was tight, fast and end to end. With Fone and Lee called upon early to prevents goals going in. Both sides were playing some flowing hockey that would convert any newbie into a hockey fan. Just listen to the podcast for the guy who was attending his first game! Games like these will often be decided on a slip or mistake and the first goal came from one. I think it was Schnabel down on the boards in the Flames zone who coughed up the puck and the Flames broke down ice. Some lovely passing saw the puck find Huppe who unleashed a beautiful one time to beat Fone. This goal would be the only of the period, despite the Phoenix applying heavy pressure to the Flames goal.
Second Period: The game started to heat up (pun intended) in the second period, and most of the chances were falling to the Phoenix as they worked to get on level terms. The first Phoenix goal did come and fell to Scott McKenzie at 26min 38sec, the goal a deserved reward for his hard work in the game. Less than 4 minutes later the Phoenix took the lead. Psurny adding to his tally and early season form with a goal at 30min 32sec. The Flames, once again, proved their quality when Rempel leveled the game to ensure the Phoenix didn't take the game in the second session. Both goals came from lapses in Phoenix concentration which, no doubt, Tony Hand will be disappointed with.
Third Period: The third period resumed as both sides went in search of the winner. Mark Lee and Stephen Fone were both putting in stellar performances to keep the puck out, you could argue Lee was having to do more work but, he was still keeping the puck out. The Phoenix kept up the pressure and were rewarded at 47min 11sec when Psurny got his second of the game. With the Phoenix ahead and the clock winding down the Flames began to up their intensity. They became more physical and began to try a few more risky plays for the leveler With less than a minute to go they would snatch a dramatic equalizer when Hemmings forced the puck past Fone to tie the game with 54 seconds to go.
Overtime: The 4 on 4 period included a penalty kill for the Phoenix with Schnabel in the box. Despite a few hairy moments the Phoenix managed to kill off the penalty and exert some of their own pressure. With a fortunate bounce the Phoenix attacked and Flaten was found free on goal and scored the winner. The Ice Dome erupted and the Phoenix completed a brilliant 4 point weekend over the Flames.
Verdict: What a game, any newbie in last night will be hooked! The game was fast, skilful, end to end and, more importantly, a quality hockey game between two title challenging sides. The Flames will be disappointed to come out of this weekend dropping 3 points to a title rival. How important they could be come the seasons end. The Phoenix played their best hockey sunday night, Psurny and Flaten continue to impress and the rest of the team are really catching form now.
Attendance: Flames games tend to bring extra fans through the door so I will say around 1,100 in.
Guildford 2 Phoenix 4 - Phoenix Article
Guildford 2 Phoenix 4 - Flames Article
Phoenix 4 Guildford 3 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 4 Guildford 3 - Flames Article
Tuesday, 17 April 2012
A true Rollercoaster - EPL Finals Weekend 2012
As I write this im still exhausted from
a roller coaster weekend in Coventry! The weekend truly had it all, the
high's and low's, great times and not so great times. For me the weekend
has been one of the best finals weekends ive had in hockey. Great games
to watch, great banter and great friends to share the experiences with.
So, without much further delay, here's my spiel and guff covering the four
days of finals weekend!
Friday Myself, my better half and parents arrived in a sunny Coventry just after 3pm and quickly settled into our hotel. After grabbing some food a quick run round Coventry's finest (cough cough) shopping establishments we descended on the Old Windmill pub which, for the weekend, would become the Phoenix pub! It was great catching up with fellow Phoenix fan's and discussing how we thought saturday would pan out, and chatting with rival fans trying to decided who they would support. That night in the Windmill truly shows why hockey is a sport unique in this country.
Saturday After filling up on the hotel's all you can eat breakfast it was a short walk down to the Windmill for the first Phoenix Podcast live show. Taking over the front room Ben, ably assisted by producer Alex took to the helm for the show. Broadcasting across the world to over 250 people apparently, the show was well put together and good fun to be on. Myself, My Russell (off of Banners on the Wall), Tambo and others chatted through nearly 2hrs of show discussing the EPL and the showpiece finals weekend. With the show finally done and dusted it was time for everyone to decamp to the SkyDome for semi final number one.
Flames v Jets In my finals pre-view blog last week I picked the Flames to win this. With the SkyDome packed to the rafters EPL finals weekend got off to a noisy bang. During the first 30seconds an incident happened that would, ultimately, affect the Flames and their chances in this semi-final. With a Slough attack Mark Lee made a save from the advancing Jets attacker. As the attacker skated across Lee, Lee seemed to twist and fall down injured. A long period of treatment followed, but it was clear Lee could take no further part in the game. He was stretcher off and Hadfield was in the play the game. Quite an introduction for the backup netminder! This change didn't seem to hurt the Flames as they settled into their game and finished the first period 2-0 up.
From the second period onwards the Flames sat back and invited the Jets to come into the game, this would be their undoing. As the Jets confidence grew so did their goal threat. It felt like the Flames switched off and the Jets got right back into the game and took the lead and never looked back. i remember thinking, if I were a Flames fan, I would be so disappointed at how my team lost that game. Well on top but then completely switching off, obviously losing Lee so early didn't help, the Flames are good enough to cope! So, Slough through to the final, who would join them?
Phoenix v Steeldogs With nerves rising through the first semi-final it was time for the Phoenix to take on the Steeldogs. In my preview blog I couldn't call this as games between us have been tight feisty affairs. The game lived up to the hype and was a fantastic barn burner and a great one for the neutral. The Phoenix opened up the first period with a lot of physicality which surprised the Steeldogs. For the first and second period the Phoenix were on top and, at one point, were 5-2 up. The end of the second period saw the flashpoint which unleashed the pent up frustration in the game. A slash by Cingel on Morgan started the bench clearance with numerous scuffles. Payette was trying to start on everyone, Ciran Long bit and took on the big making taking him to the ice, much to the pleasure of most in the stands.
Sadly after the scuffle and going into the third period the lead didn't last and in the final period the Steeldogs score twice in 30seconds to tie the game and force overtime. The extra session couldn't produce a winner with both Fone and Bowns pulling off superb saves to keep their teams in the game. This semi final would be decided by a penalty shootout and, this is where Payette's ego lost the tie for me. The Phoenix went with Faith, Koulikov and Long the Dogs, Ozolins, G Wood and Payette. For me, G Wood and Payette are not good enough for penalty shots, Ozolins is a no brainer but, I think, G Wood and Payette's selection smacks of 'I want to score the winner against my old club'. Ozolins scored for Sheffield, Faith for Phoenix and, predictably G Wood and Payette failed to convert. Sudden death penalty shots followed and Bebris missed for Sheffield and Wallace, attacking the goal in front of the 520 strong Phoenix faithful roofed the puck to send the fans into jubilation and the Phoenix into their first final in their history.
Saturday night was party night! After grabbing some food the Phoenix fans descended on the Windmill and packed it full. Much drinking, banter and singing was had until the wee small hours where those fans headed for bed in anticipation for the big day that lay ahead.
Sunday Finals day! A day the Phoenix faithful had not experienced before! The big game was at 4pm and was preceded by the under 18's final between the Guildford Phoenix and Sheffield Steelhawks. Unfortunately I missed most of this game, getting into the SkyDome for the start of the third period. From what I saw Sheffield were the better team, they seemed better drilled and just had the extra skill. They won the cup but I cant remember the score! There wasn't much time before the final so most stayed in the SkyDome to drink in the pre game buildup!
Phoenix v Jets The final, the biggest game of the season for the Phoenix and a chance to end the season with some silverware. The game got underway and, even from a Phoenix fan perspective, the Phoenix were struggling. I imagine it was a cocktail of nerves and the semi final against Sheffield, but the Phoenix looked off the pace and things were just not clicking straight away. Passes were off and we just couldn't set up in the Slough zone. The Jets, looking more refreshed and used to the situation, were quickly 2-0 up. Credit to the Phoenix the end of the first period saw the score at 2-1 Slough.
As the game continued the Jets continued to have the upper hand, through the second into the third period it was obvious the Phoenix tank was dry. We couldn't match Slough at all. As the clock wound down to the Jets eventual win the Phoenix faithful made one last push to salute their club and the fans sung their hearts out. The final buzzer went and the dream was over, it would be runners up medals this time! One final salute between the players and fans followed as the curtain fell on the 2011/12 EPL season. Disappointed but proud the Phoenix faithful left the stands to contemplate the off season.
A group of around 50 Phoenix fans waited outside the SkyDome to give each and every Phoenix player a heartfelt send off, it was only what was deserved. Having given their all during the season and for it to come up short this time, they deserved our thanks. Each one was sang onto the bus and many a tear was shed. After grabbing some food there was time for one more question, To the Windmill?
For one last time a group of us took up a table in the Windmill to reflect on the weekend and the season and, with pride, salute our team for one last time.
Monday All that was left to do was have one last breakfast and pack up to head north on the M6 back to Cheshire and turn our attention to the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Hockey in the UK was done and dusted, but the 2011/12 hockey season still has a few twists and turns left. Anyway, I hope you all enjoyed the Coventry weekend as much as I did, it was one of the best yet!
Here's to a quick summer and the 2012/13 season!
Friday Myself, my better half and parents arrived in a sunny Coventry just after 3pm and quickly settled into our hotel. After grabbing some food a quick run round Coventry's finest (cough cough) shopping establishments we descended on the Old Windmill pub which, for the weekend, would become the Phoenix pub! It was great catching up with fellow Phoenix fan's and discussing how we thought saturday would pan out, and chatting with rival fans trying to decided who they would support. That night in the Windmill truly shows why hockey is a sport unique in this country.
Saturday After filling up on the hotel's all you can eat breakfast it was a short walk down to the Windmill for the first Phoenix Podcast live show. Taking over the front room Ben, ably assisted by producer Alex took to the helm for the show. Broadcasting across the world to over 250 people apparently, the show was well put together and good fun to be on. Myself, My Russell (off of Banners on the Wall), Tambo and others chatted through nearly 2hrs of show discussing the EPL and the showpiece finals weekend. With the show finally done and dusted it was time for everyone to decamp to the SkyDome for semi final number one.
Flames v Jets In my finals pre-view blog last week I picked the Flames to win this. With the SkyDome packed to the rafters EPL finals weekend got off to a noisy bang. During the first 30seconds an incident happened that would, ultimately, affect the Flames and their chances in this semi-final. With a Slough attack Mark Lee made a save from the advancing Jets attacker. As the attacker skated across Lee, Lee seemed to twist and fall down injured. A long period of treatment followed, but it was clear Lee could take no further part in the game. He was stretcher off and Hadfield was in the play the game. Quite an introduction for the backup netminder! This change didn't seem to hurt the Flames as they settled into their game and finished the first period 2-0 up.
From the second period onwards the Flames sat back and invited the Jets to come into the game, this would be their undoing. As the Jets confidence grew so did their goal threat. It felt like the Flames switched off and the Jets got right back into the game and took the lead and never looked back. i remember thinking, if I were a Flames fan, I would be so disappointed at how my team lost that game. Well on top but then completely switching off, obviously losing Lee so early didn't help, the Flames are good enough to cope! So, Slough through to the final, who would join them?
Phoenix v Steeldogs With nerves rising through the first semi-final it was time for the Phoenix to take on the Steeldogs. In my preview blog I couldn't call this as games between us have been tight feisty affairs. The game lived up to the hype and was a fantastic barn burner and a great one for the neutral. The Phoenix opened up the first period with a lot of physicality which surprised the Steeldogs. For the first and second period the Phoenix were on top and, at one point, were 5-2 up. The end of the second period saw the flashpoint which unleashed the pent up frustration in the game. A slash by Cingel on Morgan started the bench clearance with numerous scuffles. Payette was trying to start on everyone, Ciran Long bit and took on the big making taking him to the ice, much to the pleasure of most in the stands.
Sadly after the scuffle and going into the third period the lead didn't last and in the final period the Steeldogs score twice in 30seconds to tie the game and force overtime. The extra session couldn't produce a winner with both Fone and Bowns pulling off superb saves to keep their teams in the game. This semi final would be decided by a penalty shootout and, this is where Payette's ego lost the tie for me. The Phoenix went with Faith, Koulikov and Long the Dogs, Ozolins, G Wood and Payette. For me, G Wood and Payette are not good enough for penalty shots, Ozolins is a no brainer but, I think, G Wood and Payette's selection smacks of 'I want to score the winner against my old club'. Ozolins scored for Sheffield, Faith for Phoenix and, predictably G Wood and Payette failed to convert. Sudden death penalty shots followed and Bebris missed for Sheffield and Wallace, attacking the goal in front of the 520 strong Phoenix faithful roofed the puck to send the fans into jubilation and the Phoenix into their first final in their history.
Saturday night was party night! After grabbing some food the Phoenix fans descended on the Windmill and packed it full. Much drinking, banter and singing was had until the wee small hours where those fans headed for bed in anticipation for the big day that lay ahead.
Sunday Finals day! A day the Phoenix faithful had not experienced before! The big game was at 4pm and was preceded by the under 18's final between the Guildford Phoenix and Sheffield Steelhawks. Unfortunately I missed most of this game, getting into the SkyDome for the start of the third period. From what I saw Sheffield were the better team, they seemed better drilled and just had the extra skill. They won the cup but I cant remember the score! There wasn't much time before the final so most stayed in the SkyDome to drink in the pre game buildup!
Phoenix v Jets The final, the biggest game of the season for the Phoenix and a chance to end the season with some silverware. The game got underway and, even from a Phoenix fan perspective, the Phoenix were struggling. I imagine it was a cocktail of nerves and the semi final against Sheffield, but the Phoenix looked off the pace and things were just not clicking straight away. Passes were off and we just couldn't set up in the Slough zone. The Jets, looking more refreshed and used to the situation, were quickly 2-0 up. Credit to the Phoenix the end of the first period saw the score at 2-1 Slough.
As the game continued the Jets continued to have the upper hand, through the second into the third period it was obvious the Phoenix tank was dry. We couldn't match Slough at all. As the clock wound down to the Jets eventual win the Phoenix faithful made one last push to salute their club and the fans sung their hearts out. The final buzzer went and the dream was over, it would be runners up medals this time! One final salute between the players and fans followed as the curtain fell on the 2011/12 EPL season. Disappointed but proud the Phoenix faithful left the stands to contemplate the off season.
A group of around 50 Phoenix fans waited outside the SkyDome to give each and every Phoenix player a heartfelt send off, it was only what was deserved. Having given their all during the season and for it to come up short this time, they deserved our thanks. Each one was sang onto the bus and many a tear was shed. After grabbing some food there was time for one more question, To the Windmill?
For one last time a group of us took up a table in the Windmill to reflect on the weekend and the season and, with pride, salute our team for one last time.
Monday All that was left to do was have one last breakfast and pack up to head north on the M6 back to Cheshire and turn our attention to the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Hockey in the UK was done and dusted, but the 2011/12 hockey season still has a few twists and turns left. Anyway, I hope you all enjoyed the Coventry weekend as much as I did, it was one of the best yet!
Here's to a quick summer and the 2012/13 season!
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