Phoenix faced the Bees in Altrincham just a couple of days following their English Challenge Cup 1st leg defeat to the Telford Tigers. Since that game the big piece of news broke that. Red Hockey, owners of the Telford Tigers, had bought a 49% stake in the Bracknell Bees. It's great news for Bees fans, after much speculation throughout the season, this brings stability and longevity to the Bees. Much as I , and others, disagree with one owner owning more than one club. Wayne Scholes must be complemented for putting his money where his mouth is! Security for the Bees means a more stable EPL.
Bees come to the Ice Dome for only their second visit of the season, which, is quickly followed by their third and last visit this coming weekend. Rooted to the foot of the table the Bees have struggled all season but, have claimed some scalps and, thanks to the Bees academy, have some genuine talent and future prospects! That stand-out prospect being Ivan Antonov. This is his first full season in the EPL and, the 17 year old has 39 points from 42 games, outstanding! Perhaps he has a future in Telford? Makes you wonder about the link up?
Anyway, onto the game, despite the Phoenix struggles this season, a home game against the Bees should be seen as a win for the Phoenix.
First Period: The puck dropped and off we went, it had been such a long time since the Phoenix last played the Bees, I though the Phoenix would win but I couldn't remember the matchup against the Bees. On the Ice the Bees were excellent, very quick, great passing between their players, perhaps just a little rusty and not polished enough to really capitalise on all their chances. Having said that, it was the Bees who lit the lamp first, just after the 10min mark the Bees swept up the Ice and the excellent Ivan Antonov scored past Ryan, the puck took ages to cross the line but they all count, goal timed at 10min 53sec. The Phoenix began to edge ahead in the game and control the puck, that effort and control was finally rewarded when Bobby Chamberlain scored at 16min 49sec. The goal given to Bobby after he banked the puck in off a Bees defender.
Second Period: This period really was, to borrow cliche, a period of two halves! The Phoenix came out roaring in the first half, taking just 15 seconds Bakrlik and Kovar took the puck and, almost, buldozed their way to a goal. Frankie taking the puck up the ice to feed Kovar and give the Phoenix their first lead. The home team extended that lead less than three minutes later when Adam Walker tipped a Ben Wood shot to score the Phoenix third. The goal coming at 22min 51sec. Despite the Phoenix continuing to retain the puck, the Bees sharpened their wits and hit right back. Matt Towalski scored at 23min 58sec and then, just 36sec later Hubacek equalised and, 13sec after that Lukas Smital had given the away side the lead. A very disappointing end to the period where the Phoenix had gone from a position of strength to trailing the game. A big team talk needed in the intermission!
Third Period: The Phoenix came out in the third with a purpose and, on the powerplay, they levelled the scores. With the Phoenix PP unit on the ice the puck found its way to Robin Kovar who scored, timed at 46min 34sec. The Bees then hit penalty trouble which really derailed their chances in the game. Waller picked up a 2 min boarding penalty, followed by Scott Spearing getting a 2+10 game misconduct for checking to the head plus an additional game misconduct resulting in him being thrown from the game. Lukas Smital was the next to lose his wrag, talking his way off the ice with a 10min misconduct penalty. Not the wisest of choices when you are the player coach. Jan Bendik then picked up a 2min hooking penalty. It was on this penalty that the Phoenix scored their 5th goal and took the lead. Frantisek Bakrlik unleashing a monster of a shot for the winner. The goal timed at 58min 91sec. Jan Bendik also picked up a 10min misconduct penalty at the same time.
Verdict: A tight win for the Phoenix and one where they made the most of taking their chances. Not the best performance but they got the job done. The Bees were much improved and, they really do have some excellent young prospects. It was their discipline that cost them in the game. Having three players chucked out in one period, one being your play coach was not the best thing to do!
Attendance: A good crowd in the Ice Dome, i'll guess at 1,300.
Phoenix 5 Bracknell 4 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 5 Bracknell 4 - Bees Article
Phoenix TV:
Showing posts with label Lukas Smital. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Lukas Smital. Show all posts
Saturday, 21 March 2015
Tuesday, 16 December 2014
Phoenix Rolling 7th December Bracknell Bees
The Phoenix season continued with the men from Altrincham making the simple trip down to Swindon to take on the Wildcats saturday night. The weekend would be rounded off by the Phoenix welcoming the Bracknell Bees to the Ice Dome. The Wildcats are a tricky team to play, especially on their home ice. With Lyle in goal the Wildcats are an excellent defensive team, and with Hoog no returning for the start of the season, its been Aaron Nell and import forward Tomasz Malasinski leading the way. Although in recent weeks the Wildcats have 'done a Guildford' and re-signed Jonas Hoog as their 5th import.
Wildcats 4 Phoenix 2 - Phoenix Article
Wildcats 4 Phoenix 2 - Wildcats Article
Phoenix were still without starting netminder Steve Fone and overall the game looked to have been quite even. Phoenix lost Bakrlik to a high stick penalty and it seemed to fall a part soon after. The Wildcats running our 4-2 victors. Check out this weeks Below Average Sports Cast as im sure, Swindon correspondent Scuttsy will fill us in on the game!
Sunday night saw the Bees come to Altrincham, currently the Bracknell Bees sit at the foot of the EPIHL table through a combination of injuries and a number of important players leaving. Current Phoenix Shaun Thompson being one of them and influential, and top point scorer, player coach Lukas Smital out through injury. When you look at their roster and poinst so far, when you loose your top scorer, the rest of the roster is not putting up great numbers. So you can see why they are where they are in the table. Ivan Antonov and Radek Hubacek the only other players in double figures so far this season.
The game would also see the debut for Gareth O'Flaherty, in Phoenix colours for the first time this season the Phoenix have Gareth on a two-way deal with the Coventry Blaze. Not icing for the Phoenix were Bobby Chamberlain and Jack Watkins. Off we went to the Ice Dome and, despite their league placing, I think the Bees now beat Guildford in the 'fancy bus' stakes! Perhaps the budget is being spent in the wrong place?
First Period: In front of a big crowd, swelled by Groupon first timers, the teams took to the ice for the first puck drop. From the first whistle the Phoenix controlled the game and were on top. The home side would put up an impressive 23 shots in the first period alone. Despite sporading attacks by the Bees, it was no surprise when the home side took the lead. A Frankie Bakrlik shot was tipped infront of Mettam by Archer to give the Phoenix the lead at 4min 44sec on the powerplay. Archer has found himself a role sat in front of the net, especially on powerplays and, a good few of his recent goals have come this way. Phoenix continued to attach the Bees and a second goal came with just 12sec left on the clock. Again on the powerplay the Phoenix worked the puck around the boards back to Bakrlik on the point. With time to wind up, Bakrlik unleashed one of his monster slapshots which went through Mettam and into the net. Mettam got a glove hand to it but, the sheer power carried the puck into the net.
Second Period: After going behind the Bees re-grouped and came out with a bit more effort in the second period. Getting a few more chances the Bees found Ryan in good form in the Phoenix net. With the Phoenix controlling possession it would be possible to catch Ryan cold but, the Phoenix netminder was up to the task. The next goal came for the home side at the half hour mark when Frankie Bakrlik got his second of the night at 29min 59sec from Neal and Kovar, Robin would get his reward for some hard work by getting on the score sheet himself with a goal, time at 36min 28sec, Bakrlik and Thompson with the helpers. The rest of the period settled down as the game looked to be out of Bracknell's reach at this point.
Third Period: Phoenix began the third period in control and increased the margin when Kovar scored a very neat back post goal, his second of the night at 43min 28sec. As the period wore on the Phoenix were still creating chances and it was #Bootherscoringmachine would would increase the lead to 6 at 51min 59sec. Taking the puck in from the corner Boothroyd roofed the puck over Mettam for a superb solo goal. The game was killed off just 29 seconds later when Sir Toe Knee of Hand fired in the Phoenix 7th of the night at 52min 28sec.
Verdict: With a big crowd in full of newbies it was important for the Phoenix to get the win. With a poor Bees side in opposition they did just that, an important two points, especially after loosing in Swindon the night before. Not a pretty win by any means but, the scoreline and some of the hits will impress the newbies, the rest of us knowing the result was more important. Difficult to see any other position than 9th for the Bees this season. Not much going on for them, with Smital off the ice. More surprising for me was seeing Towalski on the ice for the Bees, and being kept quiet. Towalski is a top top player, someone i'd love to see in Phoenix colours.
Attendance: Big crowd in the Ice Dome, i'll gues at 1,850
Phoenix 7 Bees 0 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 7 Bees 0 - Bees Article
Phoenix TV:
Wildcats 4 Phoenix 2 - Phoenix Article
Wildcats 4 Phoenix 2 - Wildcats Article
Phoenix were still without starting netminder Steve Fone and overall the game looked to have been quite even. Phoenix lost Bakrlik to a high stick penalty and it seemed to fall a part soon after. The Wildcats running our 4-2 victors. Check out this weeks Below Average Sports Cast as im sure, Swindon correspondent Scuttsy will fill us in on the game!
Sunday night saw the Bees come to Altrincham, currently the Bracknell Bees sit at the foot of the EPIHL table through a combination of injuries and a number of important players leaving. Current Phoenix Shaun Thompson being one of them and influential, and top point scorer, player coach Lukas Smital out through injury. When you look at their roster and poinst so far, when you loose your top scorer, the rest of the roster is not putting up great numbers. So you can see why they are where they are in the table. Ivan Antonov and Radek Hubacek the only other players in double figures so far this season.
The game would also see the debut for Gareth O'Flaherty, in Phoenix colours for the first time this season the Phoenix have Gareth on a two-way deal with the Coventry Blaze. Not icing for the Phoenix were Bobby Chamberlain and Jack Watkins. Off we went to the Ice Dome and, despite their league placing, I think the Bees now beat Guildford in the 'fancy bus' stakes! Perhaps the budget is being spent in the wrong place?
First Period: In front of a big crowd, swelled by Groupon first timers, the teams took to the ice for the first puck drop. From the first whistle the Phoenix controlled the game and were on top. The home side would put up an impressive 23 shots in the first period alone. Despite sporading attacks by the Bees, it was no surprise when the home side took the lead. A Frankie Bakrlik shot was tipped infront of Mettam by Archer to give the Phoenix the lead at 4min 44sec on the powerplay. Archer has found himself a role sat in front of the net, especially on powerplays and, a good few of his recent goals have come this way. Phoenix continued to attach the Bees and a second goal came with just 12sec left on the clock. Again on the powerplay the Phoenix worked the puck around the boards back to Bakrlik on the point. With time to wind up, Bakrlik unleashed one of his monster slapshots which went through Mettam and into the net. Mettam got a glove hand to it but, the sheer power carried the puck into the net.
Second Period: After going behind the Bees re-grouped and came out with a bit more effort in the second period. Getting a few more chances the Bees found Ryan in good form in the Phoenix net. With the Phoenix controlling possession it would be possible to catch Ryan cold but, the Phoenix netminder was up to the task. The next goal came for the home side at the half hour mark when Frankie Bakrlik got his second of the night at 29min 59sec from Neal and Kovar, Robin would get his reward for some hard work by getting on the score sheet himself with a goal, time at 36min 28sec, Bakrlik and Thompson with the helpers. The rest of the period settled down as the game looked to be out of Bracknell's reach at this point.
Third Period: Phoenix began the third period in control and increased the margin when Kovar scored a very neat back post goal, his second of the night at 43min 28sec. As the period wore on the Phoenix were still creating chances and it was #Bootherscoringmachine would would increase the lead to 6 at 51min 59sec. Taking the puck in from the corner Boothroyd roofed the puck over Mettam for a superb solo goal. The game was killed off just 29 seconds later when Sir Toe Knee of Hand fired in the Phoenix 7th of the night at 52min 28sec.
Verdict: With a big crowd in full of newbies it was important for the Phoenix to get the win. With a poor Bees side in opposition they did just that, an important two points, especially after loosing in Swindon the night before. Not a pretty win by any means but, the scoreline and some of the hits will impress the newbies, the rest of us knowing the result was more important. Difficult to see any other position than 9th for the Bees this season. Not much going on for them, with Smital off the ice. More surprising for me was seeing Towalski on the ice for the Bees, and being kept quiet. Towalski is a top top player, someone i'd love to see in Phoenix colours.
Attendance: Big crowd in the Ice Dome, i'll gues at 1,850
Phoenix 7 Bees 0 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 7 Bees 0 - Bees Article
Phoenix TV:
Tuesday, 1 April 2014
Phoenix v Bracknell Bees 30th March
With the regular season done and dusted, an Championship title won, it was time for the Phoenix to turn their attention to defending their Coventry crown. As with last season the Phoenix faced a quarter final match-up with the Bracknell Bees. While on paper the tie would look to be one sided, we are talking about 1st vs 8th here, playoff hockey is a whole other animal. In essence, league placings aside, this was 120mins of hockey to make the final dance. The Phoenix do have a good record against the Bees but, the Berkshire side are capable of a result. The first leg down at The Hive was a tough and close affair with the Bees edging the odd goal in 5 to bring a slender advantage back north.
Bees 3 Phoenix 2 - Phoenix Article
Bees 3 Phoenix 2 - Bees Article
Bees 3 Phoenix 2 - Messenger News
The Phoenix faithful, and a fair contingent from Bracknell made their final trip to Altrincham for the second leg. For the Bees, coach trouble meant that a good proportion of those visiting Bees fans never made it to the Ice Dome sadly. As a giant champions banner was unveiled the puck dropped on the final 60mins of hockey in Altrincham for the 13/14 season.
First Period: The game got underway and the Bees were immediately on the front foot. The first five minutes passed with the visitors dominating possession and chances. It was impressive stuff but, Fone was standing tall and giving the Phoenix a chance to settle into the game and wrest control back. Gradually they did so and began to apply more pressure to Mettam in the Bees net. The Phoenix, while controlling most of the period, did look a little tight and nervy. Not too surprising given they had a goal to make up. Plus the Bees hard working defence keeping them at bay. The Bees tactic of defence with the odd breakaway was working but also risky. How long could their defence last under the pressure?
Second Period: The answer was over half of the game. The second picked up where the first left off with the Phoenix increasing the pressure on Mettam and the short benched Bracknell D. In a bit of good fortune for the home side a bounce of the puck evaded a Bracknell defencemen to fall onto the stick of Psurny, Breaking free he went in alone on Mettam and pulled off a lovely deke to spread Mettam and slide the puck through the smallest of gaps, goal timed at 34min 04sec. Game level and the flood gates opened! Just over two minutes later the home fans were celebrating again when, on the powerplay, an absolutely awesome shot from Bakrlik lit the lamp, his stormer coming at 36min 24sec. I still don't think Mettam has seen it! The Phoenix second period domination continued when, around a minute later Joe Graham found himself free in front of Mettam and cooly lifted the puck past the Bees stopper. The Phoenix third coming at 37min 26sec. The period ended with the Phoenix 3-0 up on the night and 5-3 up overall.
Third Period: Having seen their previous tactic blown to pieces in the second period, the Bees had to come out and press hard. This opened up the game and we really got some great hockey to watch. Phoenix extended their lead when Tony Hand scored the 4th on the night at 46min 24sec. The period reached its halfway point and the Bees began to ratchet up their pressure, it was that or risk seeing their season end sooner rather than later. The Bees made their breakthrough when, serial aggitator Galazzi, scored the Bees first goal. The Bees breakthrough coming at 51min 41sec. This sparked a goal filled last 8-9 minutes of the game where the two teams traded goals. With the Phoenix on the powerplay James Archer scored at 54min 59sec. Just about 80sec later the Bees grabbed another through Strycek, his goal at 56min 17sec. Then about 70sec after that Bakrlik got his second of the game, scoring at 57min 33sec. The last goal and the Bees short bench looked to have sealed the game, the clock wound down and the final buzzer went, breaking Bees hearts and sending the Phoenix to Coventry. Final score on the night 6-2 and 8-6 overall.
Verdict: A tense game early on but a superb second period blew it open and in the Phoenix favour. The early stages were perfect for the Bees, soaking up the pressure. But, when the breakthrough came the Bees struggled to adapt and get back into it. It was always going to be a tough tie but, I was always confident over 120mins of hockey, the Phoenix would have the quality to make it to the final 4.
Attendance: A little disappointing actually, still a good crowd but down on last weeks crowd. I'll guess at around 1,000 in the Ice Dome.
Phoenix 6 Bees 3 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 6 Bees 3 - Bees Article
Phoenix 6 Bees 3 - Local Berkshire
Phoenix 6 Bees 3 - Get Reading
Phoenix 6 Bees 3 - Bracknell News
Phoenix Coventry weekend preview!
Phoenix TV:
Bees 3 Phoenix 2 - Phoenix Article
Bees 3 Phoenix 2 - Bees Article
Bees 3 Phoenix 2 - Messenger News
The Phoenix faithful, and a fair contingent from Bracknell made their final trip to Altrincham for the second leg. For the Bees, coach trouble meant that a good proportion of those visiting Bees fans never made it to the Ice Dome sadly. As a giant champions banner was unveiled the puck dropped on the final 60mins of hockey in Altrincham for the 13/14 season.
First Period: The game got underway and the Bees were immediately on the front foot. The first five minutes passed with the visitors dominating possession and chances. It was impressive stuff but, Fone was standing tall and giving the Phoenix a chance to settle into the game and wrest control back. Gradually they did so and began to apply more pressure to Mettam in the Bees net. The Phoenix, while controlling most of the period, did look a little tight and nervy. Not too surprising given they had a goal to make up. Plus the Bees hard working defence keeping them at bay. The Bees tactic of defence with the odd breakaway was working but also risky. How long could their defence last under the pressure?
Second Period: The answer was over half of the game. The second picked up where the first left off with the Phoenix increasing the pressure on Mettam and the short benched Bracknell D. In a bit of good fortune for the home side a bounce of the puck evaded a Bracknell defencemen to fall onto the stick of Psurny, Breaking free he went in alone on Mettam and pulled off a lovely deke to spread Mettam and slide the puck through the smallest of gaps, goal timed at 34min 04sec. Game level and the flood gates opened! Just over two minutes later the home fans were celebrating again when, on the powerplay, an absolutely awesome shot from Bakrlik lit the lamp, his stormer coming at 36min 24sec. I still don't think Mettam has seen it! The Phoenix second period domination continued when, around a minute later Joe Graham found himself free in front of Mettam and cooly lifted the puck past the Bees stopper. The Phoenix third coming at 37min 26sec. The period ended with the Phoenix 3-0 up on the night and 5-3 up overall.
Third Period: Having seen their previous tactic blown to pieces in the second period, the Bees had to come out and press hard. This opened up the game and we really got some great hockey to watch. Phoenix extended their lead when Tony Hand scored the 4th on the night at 46min 24sec. The period reached its halfway point and the Bees began to ratchet up their pressure, it was that or risk seeing their season end sooner rather than later. The Bees made their breakthrough when, serial aggitator Galazzi, scored the Bees first goal. The Bees breakthrough coming at 51min 41sec. This sparked a goal filled last 8-9 minutes of the game where the two teams traded goals. With the Phoenix on the powerplay James Archer scored at 54min 59sec. Just about 80sec later the Bees grabbed another through Strycek, his goal at 56min 17sec. Then about 70sec after that Bakrlik got his second of the game, scoring at 57min 33sec. The last goal and the Bees short bench looked to have sealed the game, the clock wound down and the final buzzer went, breaking Bees hearts and sending the Phoenix to Coventry. Final score on the night 6-2 and 8-6 overall.
Verdict: A tense game early on but a superb second period blew it open and in the Phoenix favour. The early stages were perfect for the Bees, soaking up the pressure. But, when the breakthrough came the Bees struggled to adapt and get back into it. It was always going to be a tough tie but, I was always confident over 120mins of hockey, the Phoenix would have the quality to make it to the final 4.
Attendance: A little disappointing actually, still a good crowd but down on last weeks crowd. I'll guess at around 1,000 in the Ice Dome.
Phoenix 6 Bees 3 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 6 Bees 3 - Bees Article
Phoenix 6 Bees 3 - Local Berkshire
Phoenix 6 Bees 3 - Get Reading
Phoenix 6 Bees 3 - Bracknell News
Phoenix Coventry weekend preview!
Phoenix TV:
Tuesday, 4 March 2014
Phoenix v Bracknell Bees 23rd February
The Phoenix welcomed the Bracknell Bees to the Altrincham Ice Dome and hoped to disrupt the Phoenix quest for a second EPL title. The Bees visits to Altrincham have, generally, been fruitless but this EPL season has seen the Bees claim their first win on Phoenix ice. With the season now nearing it's end the Phoenix will be keep to send the Bees back south with no points.
First Period: Off we went and the Phoenix looked to take the early initiative. The Phoenix have to start taking games by the scruff of the neck early as visiting teams have found success by frustrating the Phoenix and keeping the scores close long into the game. The Bees do carry a threat going forward so they can never be totally written off. The home side did score the first goal, Robin Kovar continuing his purple patch scoring at 10min 04sec. The Bees came right back with some sustained pressure of their own, pressure which finally told when Smital brought the two sides level at 14min 47sec. Just under two minutes later the Phoenix restored their lead through Tony Hand, his goal coming at 16min 21sec. Battle recommenced but no further goals were scored in the period.
Second Period: The second period was much more evenly contested with both goalies putting in a good show to stop some good scoring chances. The second was not completely bereft of scoring, the Phoenix lit the lamp first just after the half hour mark. James Archer scored again at 32min 07sec on the powerplay after some good work by the PP unit. The Bees hit right back when their own PP unit capitalised with the extra man when Rounding scored a controversial goal. The build up to the goal saw allot of traffic around Stephen Fone and, when the puck crossed the goal line there was clearly a Bees player in the crease behind Fone. Im not expert in the rules but, I thought, man in the crease meant no goal? Controversy aside the goal stood and by the buzzer, the Phoenix lead 3-2.
Third Period: With the business end of the season upon us the Phoenix really took the game in the third period. Every single point was now vital as the Phoenix shared top spot with the Bison. Just 49sec into the period the Phoenix took the lead through Robin Kovar. The Phoenix upped the pressure and by the mid point of the period, had won the game. Andy McKinnie kept up his great contribution from the third line with the Phoenix 5th goal at 48min 54 sec then, about a minute later Frantisek Bakrlik got the Phoenix 6th and winner.
Verdict: Potentially a tricky game for the Phoenix, the Bees are a tough team to beat. Thankfully the Phoenix dealt ok with the Bees top line and were able to get some goals early to retain control of the game. The third period was the icing on the cake as the Phoenix ran out deserved winners.
Attendance: Good crowd in the Ice Dome, 1,200.
Phoenix 6 Bees 2 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 6 Bees 2 - The Bolton News
First Period: Off we went and the Phoenix looked to take the early initiative. The Phoenix have to start taking games by the scruff of the neck early as visiting teams have found success by frustrating the Phoenix and keeping the scores close long into the game. The Bees do carry a threat going forward so they can never be totally written off. The home side did score the first goal, Robin Kovar continuing his purple patch scoring at 10min 04sec. The Bees came right back with some sustained pressure of their own, pressure which finally told when Smital brought the two sides level at 14min 47sec. Just under two minutes later the Phoenix restored their lead through Tony Hand, his goal coming at 16min 21sec. Battle recommenced but no further goals were scored in the period.
Second Period: The second period was much more evenly contested with both goalies putting in a good show to stop some good scoring chances. The second was not completely bereft of scoring, the Phoenix lit the lamp first just after the half hour mark. James Archer scored again at 32min 07sec on the powerplay after some good work by the PP unit. The Bees hit right back when their own PP unit capitalised with the extra man when Rounding scored a controversial goal. The build up to the goal saw allot of traffic around Stephen Fone and, when the puck crossed the goal line there was clearly a Bees player in the crease behind Fone. Im not expert in the rules but, I thought, man in the crease meant no goal? Controversy aside the goal stood and by the buzzer, the Phoenix lead 3-2.
Third Period: With the business end of the season upon us the Phoenix really took the game in the third period. Every single point was now vital as the Phoenix shared top spot with the Bison. Just 49sec into the period the Phoenix took the lead through Robin Kovar. The Phoenix upped the pressure and by the mid point of the period, had won the game. Andy McKinnie kept up his great contribution from the third line with the Phoenix 5th goal at 48min 54 sec then, about a minute later Frantisek Bakrlik got the Phoenix 6th and winner.
Verdict: Potentially a tricky game for the Phoenix, the Bees are a tough team to beat. Thankfully the Phoenix dealt ok with the Bees top line and were able to get some goals early to retain control of the game. The third period was the icing on the cake as the Phoenix ran out deserved winners.
Attendance: Good crowd in the Ice Dome, 1,200.
Phoenix 6 Bees 2 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 6 Bees 2 - The Bolton News
Wednesday, 4 January 2012
Phoenix v Bracknell Bees 2nd January Game Review
The first game of 2012 was preceded by a trip to MK for the Phoenix on the 30th December:
MK 1 Phoenix 4 - Phoenix Article
MK 1 Phoenix 4 - CB Sport
The Phoenix came into this game on the back of a three game winning run, the Bees are an improved side this year. Mainly through the acquisitions of Masa and Smital from Guildford. Despite this, this game should be one the Phoenix look to win every night. So far in the EPL the Bees have played the Phoenix 7 times and are yet to register a point. As ever, records are there to be broken!
First Period: The game began, much like many against the Bees in Altrincham do, with lots of Phoenix pressure, and little for the Bees. Despite being camped in the Bees zone the Phoenix could not find an early way past Carl Ambler in net, Ambler playing out of his skin and seeing the puck like a football. The Bees were not completely shutout in the period, Martin Masa and Lukas Smital lead their charge and carved out a few chances of their own. If one stat could show the domination, the Phoenix had 17 shots on goal during the period. Credit to the Bees they kept the Phoenix mainly to the outside and swept up any rebounds quickly.
Second Period: The home crowd were stunned when the Bees took the lead just 66sec into the period when Scott Spearing, who some thought should not even be on the ice, scored. This was a goal I think Foney will want back. The Phoenix re-doubled their efforts and continued their domination of the game. Thankfully the breakthrough was made just after the half hour mark. A shot by Faith was tipped by Koulikov to bring the Phoenix level scoring at 32min 38sec. Just 4 minutes later the Phoenix took the lead when Spelda unleashed a rocket from the blue line, Ambler had no chance. The Phoenix went into the second intermission 2-1 up, had it not been for Ambler the Phoenix could have been out of sight!
Third Period: The Phoenix pressure continued in the third period, the theme continued with Ambler in amazing form. The Phoenix could not complain with the number of chances they were getting, but none seemed to be of good enough quality. The chances were not being taken, and in true storybook fashion, what happens when a team leading 2-1 fails to take its chances? That's right, the opposition equalise! Lukas Smital getting the game levelling goal after excellent hard work on the boards, he fired past Fone who had no clue where the puck was! No further goals came and, like Sheffield before, the game was headed for an extra session.
Overtime: The OT period started and the Phoenix blasted out the blocks, going straight to the Bees zone the Phoenix pressured the net and, just 36 seconds into the OT period the puck was cycled round to Koulikov who blasted the puck past Ambler, Giving the Phoenix the 3-2 victory.
Verdict: A strange game, utter domination from the Phoenix, and yet it was a hard ground out type of win. In reality, had it not been for the heroics from Ambler in goal this game could have seen double figures from the Phoenix. The only downside for me, was the wasted opportunities. Had the Phoenix been playing a Slough or Guildford the result could well have been different!
Attendance: Not quite the same bumper crowd as against Sheffield but a good one none-the-less, i'll guess at around 1,200 in.
Phoenix 3 Bracknell 2 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 3 Bracknell 2 - CB Sport
Phoenix 3 Bracknell 2 - Bees Article
MK 1 Phoenix 4 - Phoenix Article
MK 1 Phoenix 4 - CB Sport
The Phoenix came into this game on the back of a three game winning run, the Bees are an improved side this year. Mainly through the acquisitions of Masa and Smital from Guildford. Despite this, this game should be one the Phoenix look to win every night. So far in the EPL the Bees have played the Phoenix 7 times and are yet to register a point. As ever, records are there to be broken!
First Period: The game began, much like many against the Bees in Altrincham do, with lots of Phoenix pressure, and little for the Bees. Despite being camped in the Bees zone the Phoenix could not find an early way past Carl Ambler in net, Ambler playing out of his skin and seeing the puck like a football. The Bees were not completely shutout in the period, Martin Masa and Lukas Smital lead their charge and carved out a few chances of their own. If one stat could show the domination, the Phoenix had 17 shots on goal during the period. Credit to the Bees they kept the Phoenix mainly to the outside and swept up any rebounds quickly.
Second Period: The home crowd were stunned when the Bees took the lead just 66sec into the period when Scott Spearing, who some thought should not even be on the ice, scored. This was a goal I think Foney will want back. The Phoenix re-doubled their efforts and continued their domination of the game. Thankfully the breakthrough was made just after the half hour mark. A shot by Faith was tipped by Koulikov to bring the Phoenix level scoring at 32min 38sec. Just 4 minutes later the Phoenix took the lead when Spelda unleashed a rocket from the blue line, Ambler had no chance. The Phoenix went into the second intermission 2-1 up, had it not been for Ambler the Phoenix could have been out of sight!
Third Period: The Phoenix pressure continued in the third period, the theme continued with Ambler in amazing form. The Phoenix could not complain with the number of chances they were getting, but none seemed to be of good enough quality. The chances were not being taken, and in true storybook fashion, what happens when a team leading 2-1 fails to take its chances? That's right, the opposition equalise! Lukas Smital getting the game levelling goal after excellent hard work on the boards, he fired past Fone who had no clue where the puck was! No further goals came and, like Sheffield before, the game was headed for an extra session.
Overtime: The OT period started and the Phoenix blasted out the blocks, going straight to the Bees zone the Phoenix pressured the net and, just 36 seconds into the OT period the puck was cycled round to Koulikov who blasted the puck past Ambler, Giving the Phoenix the 3-2 victory.
Verdict: A strange game, utter domination from the Phoenix, and yet it was a hard ground out type of win. In reality, had it not been for the heroics from Ambler in goal this game could have seen double figures from the Phoenix. The only downside for me, was the wasted opportunities. Had the Phoenix been playing a Slough or Guildford the result could well have been different!
Attendance: Not quite the same bumper crowd as against Sheffield but a good one none-the-less, i'll guess at around 1,200 in.
Phoenix 3 Bracknell 2 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 3 Bracknell 2 - CB Sport
Phoenix 3 Bracknell 2 - Bees Article
Wednesday, 26 October 2011
Phoenix v Bracknell Bees 23rd October Game Review
Bracknell have come into this season pumped up, a new team, a new budget, and two of Guildford's most potent ever players. The Bees are a better team by far this year and can no longer be taken for granted. The major upgrade came in the form of Martin Masa and Lukas Smital who came to the Bees from the Flames. Two players who seem to go everywhere together, and two very good players. These two have the ability to win games on their own, they will help the Bees convert many more games into wins this year!
Saturday saw the Phoenix make the journey down the M6 and M5 to Swindon to take on another, much improved team. The Jet's took Bracknells dynamic duo Pinc and Cesky and hope they will do for them, what Masa/Smital will do for Bracknell! Despite taking the lead the Phoenix struggled in Swindon and lost the game 4-2. A disappointing result, even with their improvements the Phoenix still have enough skill to win!
Anyway, onto Sunday and the chance for the Phoenix to right those wrongs and avoid a weekend whitewash!
First Period: The Phoenix took to the ice without injured defenceman Jaroslav Spelda, in his absence his spot on the blue line has been filled by Ben Wood, slotting back into his usual D role. The home side got off to the best possible start when Juraj Faith continue his hot scoring streak netting after just 64seconds. The early delight of scoring would have the shine taken off a little when Bracknell leveled the scores on the 3 minute mark scoring through Thomson. With each side trying to settle down and into their rhythm as soon as possible the Phoenix continued to create the early chances. The Phoenix got the go ahead goal on 5min 52sec through Stephen Wallace who, like Faith, is enjoying a rich vein of form at the moment. The Phoenix second line has been our best performers over recent weeks, that fact underlined by another goal for that group. This time Koulikov got the goal after 16min 02sec, a shot from the far wing on goal, possibly deflecting in of a Bracknell player.
Second Period: Like the first period, the Phoenix got off to another flyer. Their fourth goal coming at 21min 43sec, and again it was Faith who scored early. This made the scores 4-1 and, in typical Phoenix style, this is where the team eased off! With the talent Bracknell have it should come as no surprise, dear reader, that they hauled themselves back into the game. Their second of the night came at 31min 06 on the powerplay through Peter Jasik. Then, just over 2 minutes later, the Bees were within a goal. Lukas Smital scored the Bees 3rd at 33min 17sec. This stirred the Phoenix back into life and the period finished 4-3 Phoenix.
Third Period: So a good first period, a sleepy second, what would happen in the third? Thankfully it looked like Tony's interval chat had an effect and the Phoenix came back out with purpose. They worked hard to contain the Bees and go in search of another goal. That goal would come, and to much delight, a reward for the hard working third line. Tom Duggan scoring the Phoenix 5th at 50min 33sec. With the scores 5-3 the Phoenix looked to close out the game and with the Bees tiring the game ended with a victory for the Phoenix.
Verdict: 40 minutes of good hockey out of 60 may be ok against teams like the Bees, but against the likes of the Jets/MK and Guildford that won't be enough. It was pleasing to see the overall performance tonight, the Phoenix had been in a little bit of a slump and this game showed the fight/desire is still there. I genuinely could not have picked a MOM there were a few candidates! The other main positive I can take out of the game was a reward, finally, for the third line. They work so hard every shift without, necessarily, getting any reward. Tom's goal will do them the world of good! What's also good to see is Faith's form continuing on an upward trend. Hopefully this will silence some of the doubters!
Attendance: Another solid crowd in the Dome, i'll say 1,200 in.
Phoenix 5 Bracknell 3 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 5 Bracknell 3 - Bracknell Article
Phoenix 5 Bracknell 3 - CB Sport
Saturday saw the Phoenix make the journey down the M6 and M5 to Swindon to take on another, much improved team. The Jet's took Bracknells dynamic duo Pinc and Cesky and hope they will do for them, what Masa/Smital will do for Bracknell! Despite taking the lead the Phoenix struggled in Swindon and lost the game 4-2. A disappointing result, even with their improvements the Phoenix still have enough skill to win!
Anyway, onto Sunday and the chance for the Phoenix to right those wrongs and avoid a weekend whitewash!
First Period: The Phoenix took to the ice without injured defenceman Jaroslav Spelda, in his absence his spot on the blue line has been filled by Ben Wood, slotting back into his usual D role. The home side got off to the best possible start when Juraj Faith continue his hot scoring streak netting after just 64seconds. The early delight of scoring would have the shine taken off a little when Bracknell leveled the scores on the 3 minute mark scoring through Thomson. With each side trying to settle down and into their rhythm as soon as possible the Phoenix continued to create the early chances. The Phoenix got the go ahead goal on 5min 52sec through Stephen Wallace who, like Faith, is enjoying a rich vein of form at the moment. The Phoenix second line has been our best performers over recent weeks, that fact underlined by another goal for that group. This time Koulikov got the goal after 16min 02sec, a shot from the far wing on goal, possibly deflecting in of a Bracknell player.
Second Period: Like the first period, the Phoenix got off to another flyer. Their fourth goal coming at 21min 43sec, and again it was Faith who scored early. This made the scores 4-1 and, in typical Phoenix style, this is where the team eased off! With the talent Bracknell have it should come as no surprise, dear reader, that they hauled themselves back into the game. Their second of the night came at 31min 06 on the powerplay through Peter Jasik. Then, just over 2 minutes later, the Bees were within a goal. Lukas Smital scored the Bees 3rd at 33min 17sec. This stirred the Phoenix back into life and the period finished 4-3 Phoenix.
Third Period: So a good first period, a sleepy second, what would happen in the third? Thankfully it looked like Tony's interval chat had an effect and the Phoenix came back out with purpose. They worked hard to contain the Bees and go in search of another goal. That goal would come, and to much delight, a reward for the hard working third line. Tom Duggan scoring the Phoenix 5th at 50min 33sec. With the scores 5-3 the Phoenix looked to close out the game and with the Bees tiring the game ended with a victory for the Phoenix.
Verdict: 40 minutes of good hockey out of 60 may be ok against teams like the Bees, but against the likes of the Jets/MK and Guildford that won't be enough. It was pleasing to see the overall performance tonight, the Phoenix had been in a little bit of a slump and this game showed the fight/desire is still there. I genuinely could not have picked a MOM there were a few candidates! The other main positive I can take out of the game was a reward, finally, for the third line. They work so hard every shift without, necessarily, getting any reward. Tom's goal will do them the world of good! What's also good to see is Faith's form continuing on an upward trend. Hopefully this will silence some of the doubters!
Attendance: Another solid crowd in the Dome, i'll say 1,200 in.
Phoenix 5 Bracknell 3 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 5 Bracknell 3 - Bracknell Article
Phoenix 5 Bracknell 3 - CB Sport
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