This past weekend saw the Phoenix face yet another tough weekend in the EPL. Saturday night saw a trip down to Bison land to take on a team in great form this season. The Phoenix saw Baranek icing again but, were without James Neil and Phil Hamer. Reports from the game suggest it was not a good night at the office for the Phoenix, the scoreline backing that assumption up, Phoenix coming away with a 5-0 drubbing. Head on over to Banners on the Wall for a write up on the game.
http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2728/phoenix-blanked-basingstoke
Sunday night at the West Manchester Municipal Pool saw the Wildcats head into Deeside. The Phoenix would see Phil Hamer make his debut and, although he didn't play, James Neil took warm up before the puck drop suggesting his recovery is well on course.
First Period: For the first time in a very long time the Phoenix were starting a game able to roll 3 forward lines, coming into the game though, against a good Wildcats side you would still have fancied the visitors to get the win. Imagine our surprise that, right from the first puck drop it was the Phoenix who took the initiative. For the first 5 minutes of the game the Phoenix played a high and aggressive forecheck which forced the Wildcats into their own zone. The pressure continued and, it was a goalmouth scramble which yielded the games first goal. At 10min exactly Trent Hope would pounce on a loose puck to put the Phoenix ahead. The chances continued to fall for the Phoenix and, Jacob Corson-Heron was unlucky to extend the lead minutes later only to be denied by Lyle. Swindon began to edge back into the game and Carlo Finucci forced Fone into a great stop to keep the visitors at bay. The Phoenix doubled their lead at 14min 41sec when Michal Satek and James Archer raced up ice on a 2 on 1. Archer with the puck held, held and held, gave Lyle the passing eyes who took the bait opening up the top corner. Archer unleashed a pin point shot to give the Phoenix a two goal lead.
Second Period: After a superb second period the Phoenix had to make it a second superb period to have a chance of closing out the game. The Phoenix pressure, remarkably, continued in the early stages as it wasn't until the halfway point until the Wildcats put their first shot in on Steve Fone. That sparked an avalanche of Wildcats pressure in a mad spell the visitors registered 15 shots on Fone but, the Phoenix netminder turned them all away. One goal did come in the period, with the puck bobbling toward the Wildcats blue line, Kovar was on hand to poke check the puck through the Defenceman's leg's and raced clear in on Lyle, after a neat wiggle of the shoulders he slid the puck home. Making it 3-0 Phoenix at 34min 34sec.
Third Period: 40min down 20min to go, the Phoenix needed to play a solid, no mistakes game to close out a deserved win. All the while keeping some of the best offensive talent in the EPL at bay. Usually the third period sees the Phoenix start to suffer from the short bench. This time, maybe it was the addition of Phil Hamer to the bench? Maybe it was Baranek and Kovar establishing a telepathic connection? Maybe it was all that, plus two period of hockey which meant the Phoenix will still going and largely on top in the game. In the first 10mins of the game the Phoenix made it 4. James Archer taking a shot from the blueline which Satek tipped on the way through to beat Stevie Lyle, goal timed at 43min 29sec. A 5th soon followed when Satek scored his second of the game from a superb drop pass from Gron, finding the same top right corner of Lyle's net James Archer found earlier in the game. It was at this point Lyle was changed for Jordan Hedley. The Phoenix pressured Headley in the closing moments but were not able to add any more goals.
Verdict: What a win, and a deserved one too! I remember commenting on the Phoenix Podcast in the first intermission that, the 1st period was possibly the best i'd seen the Phoenix play this season. Then, in the second intermission, it was same again. It was genuinely the best 60mins of hockey I think ive seen in Deeside. Kovar/Baranek is a partnership which, if both stay fit, could fire the Phoenix into the playoffs. Phil Hamer looks to be a great addition, he looked a little rusty and slow(ish) but many years or inline hockey can mean it takes a while to adjust back to ice. That being said, early signs are his presence on the 3rd line with Hope and Corson-Heron elevates that line to a new level. A word also must go to Ben Russell and Trent Hop, the latter getting a deserved Man-of-the-Match award, who both turned in games of the season!
Given all the negativity around the Phoenix this season and, the losses that have mounted up recently, last night was a breath of fresh, positive air! It felt really good driving back east on the M56 that's for sure!
http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2729/five-star-phoenix-blow-swindon-away
http://www.swindonwildcats.com/news/720/phoenix-depose-wildcats.html#.VpOox9LtlHw
http://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/sport/14194588.BUZZER_REPORT__Manchester_Phoenix_5_Swindon_Wildcats_0/
Showing posts with label Swindon Wildcats. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Swindon Wildcats. Show all posts
Tuesday, 12 January 2016
Sunday, 22 November 2015
Phoenix Rolling - Swindon Wildcats 15/11/15
Hoping to build on the 4 point weekend previously the Phoenix had a trip across the Pennines to take on the Sheffield Steeldogs, before heading back home to host the Swindon Wildcats. The Phoenix had to take on the Steeldogs without Gareth O'Flaherty who was suffering with a little concussion he took in the game against the Telford Tigers the previous week. During the game Robin Kovar also picked up an injury so the Phoenix would be two players down for the visit of the Cats. After a quick call, and with kind permission from the Blackburn Hawks, the Phoenix would welcome an old friend back to the roster for one night only. Richie Bentham would, once again, don the Phoenix colours.
A large and boisterous crowd filled the West Manchester Municipal Pool for the second encounter, in the league, between the Phoenix and the Cats. Tom Perring wore the arm bands and, after a playing of La Marseillaise the puck was dropped.
First Period: It had all the potential for another epic game between the two sides but, it would be tough for the Phoenix. Swindon had the advantage of a much deeper roster, the Phoenix bench shortened by injury. Things did not get off on the right foot for Phoenix fans, within the first 3 minutes the visitors had taken the lead. After excellent passing from McEwan and Taylor, Sam Bullas lit the lamp for the first goal of the game, timed at 2min 23sec. Phoenix re-grouped and started to get back into the game. Breakaway chances fell to Gron and Archer who were both denied by Stevie Lyle. The Phoenix would finally get some reward when Stan Gron broke up a Swindon play in the Phoenix zone and found Satek mid ice. Michal raced up ice and, after pulling an awesome move on Lyle roofed the puck to bring the home side level. His goal timed at 9min 15sec. The period progressed and Richie Bentham began to show what the Phoenix fans were missing. His play bringing some physicality and chippieness to the Phoenix which has been sorely missed. Carlo Finucci took a two minute slashing penalty which put the Phoenx in the powerplay. The Phoenix put immense pressure on the Wildcat net but could not find a way past Lyle, after a break down in play Kostal was able to pick out Hoog who raced clear and slotted home a superb short handed effort, giving the Cats the lead at 16min 56sec. The period would end with the Cats holding the advantage, shots were 12 a piece.
Second Period: In what was turning out to be a fantastic game of hockey to watch, the second period progressed much like the first! Both teams were creating chances but, finding the opposition net minder equal to the shots. The Phoenix had a brief few chances when Jan Kostal then Adam Harding went to the box for hooking and cross checking penalties respectively. The Phoenix were unable to break through and the period ended with the score still, 2-1 Swindon.
Third Period: One more period and one goal is doable for the Phoenix, Swindon however were not reading that script! At 47min 37sec Aaron Nell scored his first of the game to give the visitors a 3-1 lead, thus silencing the lively home support. That silence did not last long, when a superb solo effort from Stan Gron reduced the deficit when he scored at 47min 52sec. Phoenix ramped up the pressure, but Stevie Lyle, showing all his experience kept them at bay, even with some unorthodox saves! With time ticking down the Phoenix pulled Fone for the extra attacker and, rarely, it worked. Ritchie Bentham as if it was meant to be, scored with 20sec to go to force overtime. Needless to say....they are still searching for the roof of the building!
Overtime: Into 3-on3 action we go. Both sides saw chances early on, the highlight for the Phoenix was Mark Thomas coming close forcing Lyle into an unbelievable stop....worth watching Phoenix TV for that one! With time running down it seemed penalty shots were inevitable but, the hockey gods would deal the Phoenix a cruel hand. With just 2.5sec left on the clock, Nell found himself in some space, with the puck and he made no mistake. Taking the shot and taking the win, plus the extra point, down the M5 to Swindon!
Verdict: A real shame for the Phoenix to lose the game with 2.5 to go but, it was a fantastic game overall. Swindon and Manchester are two evenly matched teams and each game between the two, so far, have been fantastic, at least the games I have seen in Deeside! Given the Phoenix recent run of results and form, the past two weekends have seen a real upturn in performance. Thats what makes me not too bothered to have lost sunday night, the performance was there! Could it have been a different story with O'Flaherty and Kovar on the ice? Maybe? I sure hope Neil Morris and Tony Hand can find some budget to have Bentham back, he played very well, got a goal plus a 10min penalty. Phoenix could do with some of that energy!
http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2700/phoenix-bitten-dogs-sheffield
http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2701/late-goal-breaks-phoenix-hearts
A large and boisterous crowd filled the West Manchester Municipal Pool for the second encounter, in the league, between the Phoenix and the Cats. Tom Perring wore the arm bands and, after a playing of La Marseillaise the puck was dropped.
First Period: It had all the potential for another epic game between the two sides but, it would be tough for the Phoenix. Swindon had the advantage of a much deeper roster, the Phoenix bench shortened by injury. Things did not get off on the right foot for Phoenix fans, within the first 3 minutes the visitors had taken the lead. After excellent passing from McEwan and Taylor, Sam Bullas lit the lamp for the first goal of the game, timed at 2min 23sec. Phoenix re-grouped and started to get back into the game. Breakaway chances fell to Gron and Archer who were both denied by Stevie Lyle. The Phoenix would finally get some reward when Stan Gron broke up a Swindon play in the Phoenix zone and found Satek mid ice. Michal raced up ice and, after pulling an awesome move on Lyle roofed the puck to bring the home side level. His goal timed at 9min 15sec. The period progressed and Richie Bentham began to show what the Phoenix fans were missing. His play bringing some physicality and chippieness to the Phoenix which has been sorely missed. Carlo Finucci took a two minute slashing penalty which put the Phoenx in the powerplay. The Phoenix put immense pressure on the Wildcat net but could not find a way past Lyle, after a break down in play Kostal was able to pick out Hoog who raced clear and slotted home a superb short handed effort, giving the Cats the lead at 16min 56sec. The period would end with the Cats holding the advantage, shots were 12 a piece.
Second Period: In what was turning out to be a fantastic game of hockey to watch, the second period progressed much like the first! Both teams were creating chances but, finding the opposition net minder equal to the shots. The Phoenix had a brief few chances when Jan Kostal then Adam Harding went to the box for hooking and cross checking penalties respectively. The Phoenix were unable to break through and the period ended with the score still, 2-1 Swindon.
Third Period: One more period and one goal is doable for the Phoenix, Swindon however were not reading that script! At 47min 37sec Aaron Nell scored his first of the game to give the visitors a 3-1 lead, thus silencing the lively home support. That silence did not last long, when a superb solo effort from Stan Gron reduced the deficit when he scored at 47min 52sec. Phoenix ramped up the pressure, but Stevie Lyle, showing all his experience kept them at bay, even with some unorthodox saves! With time ticking down the Phoenix pulled Fone for the extra attacker and, rarely, it worked. Ritchie Bentham as if it was meant to be, scored with 20sec to go to force overtime. Needless to say....they are still searching for the roof of the building!
Overtime: Into 3-on3 action we go. Both sides saw chances early on, the highlight for the Phoenix was Mark Thomas coming close forcing Lyle into an unbelievable stop....worth watching Phoenix TV for that one! With time running down it seemed penalty shots were inevitable but, the hockey gods would deal the Phoenix a cruel hand. With just 2.5sec left on the clock, Nell found himself in some space, with the puck and he made no mistake. Taking the shot and taking the win, plus the extra point, down the M5 to Swindon!
Verdict: A real shame for the Phoenix to lose the game with 2.5 to go but, it was a fantastic game overall. Swindon and Manchester are two evenly matched teams and each game between the two, so far, have been fantastic, at least the games I have seen in Deeside! Given the Phoenix recent run of results and form, the past two weekends have seen a real upturn in performance. Thats what makes me not too bothered to have lost sunday night, the performance was there! Could it have been a different story with O'Flaherty and Kovar on the ice? Maybe? I sure hope Neil Morris and Tony Hand can find some budget to have Bentham back, he played very well, got a goal plus a 10min penalty. Phoenix could do with some of that energy!
http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2700/phoenix-bitten-dogs-sheffield
http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2701/late-goal-breaks-phoenix-hearts
Monday, 19 October 2015
Phoenix Rolling - Swindon WIldcats 18/10/15
Here we are again, the day after the weekend before, another pair of games ticked off on the EPL calendar. The Manchester Phoenix had games away to the Guildford Flames saturday night before taking on the Swindon Wildcats sunday night in West Manchester. Another tough weekend of EPL hockey, what weekends aren't? A weekend the Phoenix would look to snap a run of losses and get back to winning ways.
Saturday night in Guildford saw a tight game between to good hockey sides on the big spectrum ice. Phoenix took the lead early on but the Flames powered back to take a 2 goal lead early in the third period. A maiden goal for Trent Hope and then another score for Robin Kovar would force OT and then the game was to be decided on penalty shots. Tom Duggan would score the decisive shot for the home team and secure the extra point. Phoenix will be disappointed to lose the game on PS but, a point won in Guildford is not to be sniffed at, more importantly the performance was one to give the Phoenix boys a much needed confidence boost.
Sunday and the visit of the Wildcats would be another entertaining game. The Phoenix were without any players guesting from the Deeside Dragons and, this would be the first we got to see of Wildcats new import forward Carlo Finucci.
First Period: Phoenix came flying out the blocks after the puck drop and took the game to Swindon. A high pressing forecheck gave the Wildcats little comfort on the puck and Lyle was never given a chance to settle. Looking a little unsure of himself the Phoenix took their shots trying to force the games opening goal. That goal would come before the 5 min mark when Michael Satek took a short angle shot and banked the puck into the net off Stevie Lyle, timed at 4min 50sec. The pressure continued and the home side doubled their lead at 7min 05sec when Stan Gron tipped a Ben Wood shot for the games second goal. The Phoenix continued to pile on the pressure and Stevie Lyle called a time out to regroup the troops. As the period entered its second half the Wildcats began to regain some composure and force their own chances. It was on a break up the ice Luke Boothroyd took a needful slashing penalty to stop an opportunity. On the resulting powerplay the Wildcats would make that decision pay. Carlo Finucci got his first of the game at 11min 42sec to halve the deficit. Swindon began to tip the pressure in the their favour after the goal and that pressure would pay. At 18min 06sec Finucci scored once again to send the teams in at the break level at 2 each.
Second Period: The interval helped the Phoenix who looked like their old selves at the beginning of the second period. Taking the play to the Wildcats with pace, the Phoenix set up in the Cats zone early. After some neat work by Kovar and Satek, James Archer was found on the hash marks who blasted a shot past Lyle. So forceful that Lyle, and most of the players on the ice never saw it. The go ahead goal scored at 31min 35sec. The Phoenix continued to hold on to the play and dominate possession so, at the second interval, the home side lead 3-2.
Third Period: A Swindon fightback was expected and is what we got. Jan Kostal got the chances underway when an excellent shot beat Fone but not the pipework. Then Stan Gron was denied by a great save on a break away. The game really began to open up as the play switched from end to end. With Ben Wood off the ice on a questionable interference call the Cats went back on the powerplay. Much like their earlier effort they made the Phoenix pay. Tomasz Malasinski tied up the game once again with a superb snipe on the back post when he was found all alone, assists going to Harding and Ryhanen. At this point the period wore on and looked to be heading for OT but, Stan Gron would not agree and nab his second goal as the game entered it's last 5 minutes. After rounding the net he scored a beaut of a goal at 56min 45sec. The Phoenix needed to dig deep now and see out the game in face of some big Swindon pressure. Into the last couple of minutes Stevie Lyle went to the bench for the extra skater but the Wildcats could not set up properly in the Phoenix zone. After a turn over Aaltonen fed Stan Gron who raced up the left win and scored an easy empty netter, sealing his hattrick at 59min 43sec.
Verdict: After picking up a superb point the previous night this win underlined a fantastic weekend for the Phoenix and a real shot in the arm for form and confidence. For the most part they were able to deal with that excellent Wildcats top line and, a welcome return to form for Gron meant the Phoenix were good value for the win.
http://www.guildfordflames.com/october_17th_v_manchester_phoenix___league_and_cup
http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2687/battling-phoenix-claim-point-guildford
http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2688/gron-dazzles-phoenix-beat-swindon
http://www.swindonwildcats.com/news/603/phoenix-edge-wildcats.html#.ViTE_9JVhHw
http://totalswindonsport.com/2015/10/liddiard-speaks-to-total-sport-following-phoenix-defeat/
Saturday night in Guildford saw a tight game between to good hockey sides on the big spectrum ice. Phoenix took the lead early on but the Flames powered back to take a 2 goal lead early in the third period. A maiden goal for Trent Hope and then another score for Robin Kovar would force OT and then the game was to be decided on penalty shots. Tom Duggan would score the decisive shot for the home team and secure the extra point. Phoenix will be disappointed to lose the game on PS but, a point won in Guildford is not to be sniffed at, more importantly the performance was one to give the Phoenix boys a much needed confidence boost.
Sunday and the visit of the Wildcats would be another entertaining game. The Phoenix were without any players guesting from the Deeside Dragons and, this would be the first we got to see of Wildcats new import forward Carlo Finucci.
First Period: Phoenix came flying out the blocks after the puck drop and took the game to Swindon. A high pressing forecheck gave the Wildcats little comfort on the puck and Lyle was never given a chance to settle. Looking a little unsure of himself the Phoenix took their shots trying to force the games opening goal. That goal would come before the 5 min mark when Michael Satek took a short angle shot and banked the puck into the net off Stevie Lyle, timed at 4min 50sec. The pressure continued and the home side doubled their lead at 7min 05sec when Stan Gron tipped a Ben Wood shot for the games second goal. The Phoenix continued to pile on the pressure and Stevie Lyle called a time out to regroup the troops. As the period entered its second half the Wildcats began to regain some composure and force their own chances. It was on a break up the ice Luke Boothroyd took a needful slashing penalty to stop an opportunity. On the resulting powerplay the Wildcats would make that decision pay. Carlo Finucci got his first of the game at 11min 42sec to halve the deficit. Swindon began to tip the pressure in the their favour after the goal and that pressure would pay. At 18min 06sec Finucci scored once again to send the teams in at the break level at 2 each.
Second Period: The interval helped the Phoenix who looked like their old selves at the beginning of the second period. Taking the play to the Wildcats with pace, the Phoenix set up in the Cats zone early. After some neat work by Kovar and Satek, James Archer was found on the hash marks who blasted a shot past Lyle. So forceful that Lyle, and most of the players on the ice never saw it. The go ahead goal scored at 31min 35sec. The Phoenix continued to hold on to the play and dominate possession so, at the second interval, the home side lead 3-2.
Third Period: A Swindon fightback was expected and is what we got. Jan Kostal got the chances underway when an excellent shot beat Fone but not the pipework. Then Stan Gron was denied by a great save on a break away. The game really began to open up as the play switched from end to end. With Ben Wood off the ice on a questionable interference call the Cats went back on the powerplay. Much like their earlier effort they made the Phoenix pay. Tomasz Malasinski tied up the game once again with a superb snipe on the back post when he was found all alone, assists going to Harding and Ryhanen. At this point the period wore on and looked to be heading for OT but, Stan Gron would not agree and nab his second goal as the game entered it's last 5 minutes. After rounding the net he scored a beaut of a goal at 56min 45sec. The Phoenix needed to dig deep now and see out the game in face of some big Swindon pressure. Into the last couple of minutes Stevie Lyle went to the bench for the extra skater but the Wildcats could not set up properly in the Phoenix zone. After a turn over Aaltonen fed Stan Gron who raced up the left win and scored an easy empty netter, sealing his hattrick at 59min 43sec.
Verdict: After picking up a superb point the previous night this win underlined a fantastic weekend for the Phoenix and a real shot in the arm for form and confidence. For the most part they were able to deal with that excellent Wildcats top line and, a welcome return to form for Gron meant the Phoenix were good value for the win.
http://www.guildfordflames.com/october_17th_v_manchester_phoenix___league_and_cup
http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2687/battling-phoenix-claim-point-guildford
http://www.manchesterphoenix.co.uk/news/2688/gron-dazzles-phoenix-beat-swindon
http://www.swindonwildcats.com/news/603/phoenix-edge-wildcats.html#.ViTE_9JVhHw
http://totalswindonsport.com/2015/10/liddiard-speaks-to-total-sport-following-phoenix-defeat/
Sunday, 13 September 2015
Pre-Season Hype
The road to the 15/16 season has been an interesting ones for Phoenix fans and for fans of hockey in Manchester it has to be said. Much has been said on various forum's/blog's and twitter, I said my piece in my previous post so, from now on its hockey only on the blog! Famous last words I know!
This post is going to round up the last few players who were added to the roster and the two 'home' preseason games against the Swindon Wildcats and the Telford Tigers. So, onto the remaining players to join the Phoenix roster:
Back up Netminder - Phil Spanswick. Last season Phoenix had one of the strongest netminding tandems in the league with Fone and Declan Ryan. During the summer Ryan announced via twitter that he was taking time away from hockey to pursue a phd. Fair enough, at EPL level hockey is not a full time profession for Brit's so you have to get set for your future away from the sport. So, with the back up netminder spot free the Phoenix announced Phil Spanswick who would fill the role for this coming season. I will concede I do not know much about Phil and his Elite Hockey Prospects page is quite sparse. Anyone out there know much/anything about him?
Forward - Trent Hope. Hope is a name familiar to hockey fans across the UK. Shannon Hope was a defenceman for the Cardiff Devils playing nearly 400 games for the Cardiff side. No surprise then that his son, Trent, has played his career to date in south Wales. So far he has performed nicely in the ENL and ENL 2 and this season will be his first in the top level of English Ice Hockey the EPL. Another player I know little about but am looking forward to seeing out on the ice!
Forward - Stanislav Gron. Or MecaGron is how i'll be referring to him this coming season is a big Slovak forward drafted by the New Jersey Devils in 1997. Playing the majority of his career in his home country he also had signifcant stints in Italy, the WHL and the AHL putting up nearly a point every other game. His past couple of seasons in Italy have seen him scoring at over 1.5 points per game.He looks to have the size, he has the experience hopefully MecaGron will fill the points gap left by Tony Hand's retirement.
Forward - Nico Aaltonen. Phoenix dont usually sign finnish players so Nico joins quite a small list! Nico will be another top lforward who the club will hope replaces some of the points lost through player departures. Like MecaGron, Nico has spent most of his career in his homeland and, played one game shy of 200 in the Liiga in Finland.
Forward - Michal Satek. Another new arrival at the Phoenix, he joins Aaltonen and MecaGron making their debut seasons with the Phoenix in England in the EPL. Having spent just one season outside Slovakia Satek comes to England for a new challenge. His career in Slovakia has seen him score roughly a point every 2 or 3 games and, coming off the back of a good year in Romania. Satek looks exciting on paper, hopefully that will translate onto the ice.
Along with the main roster the Phoenix have also signed two Deeside youngsters on two way contracts for the coming season, makes sense given the year long residency the Phoenix have in north Wales.
Youngsters playing on a two way with the Deeside Dragons, Ross Kennedy on Defence and Ryan Jones on forward. Give the Phoenix tendancy to ice with a shorter roster and, our luck (or lack thereof) with injuries, I think the two youngsters will see a fair amount of ice time!
So thats the roster, how about some games? Continuing the strange summer we've had as Phoenix fans, it was August and we were on the M56 heading for North Wales! Hockey can be a strange and unusual sport sometimes but, its why we all love it! It was good fun driving across to Deeside, this coming season will feel like an adventure each weekend! For those of you who will come to Deeside as an away fan I would recommend arriving a little earlier or, build in a trip to Chester Zoo or Cheshire Oaks at the same time. Both are only about 20 minutes away from the Ice Rink!
Cats enter the Dragons Lair:
Swindon Wildcats were the first visitors to the Phoenix new home and the first with Stevie Lyle as player coach. The Cat's have retianed the majority of their 14/15 roster, the significant changes coming in their imports. Hoog and Kana were not retained, placed by Miroslav Zalasak and Sami Ryhanen. The game really was fun to watch, Swindon and Phoenix have similarities in the way they play. Swindon, for me, looked very solid if a little un-inspiring at times. Throughout the game the main players just didnt seem to catch fire. Im really looking at Nell and Kostal. They seemed to huff and puff but not really get anywhere. The Phoenix, while looking a bit more kamikaze in defence had pace to burn and would often get in behind the Wildcats defence. In the end the Phoenix were able to capitalise on that pace while doing just enough in defence to keep the Wildcats at bay. Plus, Steve Fone was in outstanding form!
Reality check from the Champions:
After the weekends optimism playing the Wildcats and, a 4-3 win in Telford the night before sunday was set up to be a cracker. The Tigers come into the 15/16 which a largely unchanged roster. Well, they are champions so, why change something that isn't broken? The only new blood coming from two new players, Joe Graham and Phil Hill. When the game got going the Phoenix looked good in the early stages and took the lead. But, the quality on the Tigers roster began to come through. The Tigers took quick hold of the game and ran away with it. Really no issues with the scoreline for me, the Phoenix looked tired and, coupled with the Tigers depth, just couldn't match up. Best team in the league last year and, on that showing, they will be the ones to beat again!
This post is going to round up the last few players who were added to the roster and the two 'home' preseason games against the Swindon Wildcats and the Telford Tigers. So, onto the remaining players to join the Phoenix roster:
Back up Netminder - Phil Spanswick. Last season Phoenix had one of the strongest netminding tandems in the league with Fone and Declan Ryan. During the summer Ryan announced via twitter that he was taking time away from hockey to pursue a phd. Fair enough, at EPL level hockey is not a full time profession for Brit's so you have to get set for your future away from the sport. So, with the back up netminder spot free the Phoenix announced Phil Spanswick who would fill the role for this coming season. I will concede I do not know much about Phil and his Elite Hockey Prospects page is quite sparse. Anyone out there know much/anything about him?
Forward - Trent Hope. Hope is a name familiar to hockey fans across the UK. Shannon Hope was a defenceman for the Cardiff Devils playing nearly 400 games for the Cardiff side. No surprise then that his son, Trent, has played his career to date in south Wales. So far he has performed nicely in the ENL and ENL 2 and this season will be his first in the top level of English Ice Hockey the EPL. Another player I know little about but am looking forward to seeing out on the ice!
Forward - Stanislav Gron. Or MecaGron is how i'll be referring to him this coming season is a big Slovak forward drafted by the New Jersey Devils in 1997. Playing the majority of his career in his home country he also had signifcant stints in Italy, the WHL and the AHL putting up nearly a point every other game. His past couple of seasons in Italy have seen him scoring at over 1.5 points per game.He looks to have the size, he has the experience hopefully MecaGron will fill the points gap left by Tony Hand's retirement.
Forward - Nico Aaltonen. Phoenix dont usually sign finnish players so Nico joins quite a small list! Nico will be another top lforward who the club will hope replaces some of the points lost through player departures. Like MecaGron, Nico has spent most of his career in his homeland and, played one game shy of 200 in the Liiga in Finland.
Forward - Michal Satek. Another new arrival at the Phoenix, he joins Aaltonen and MecaGron making their debut seasons with the Phoenix in England in the EPL. Having spent just one season outside Slovakia Satek comes to England for a new challenge. His career in Slovakia has seen him score roughly a point every 2 or 3 games and, coming off the back of a good year in Romania. Satek looks exciting on paper, hopefully that will translate onto the ice.
Along with the main roster the Phoenix have also signed two Deeside youngsters on two way contracts for the coming season, makes sense given the year long residency the Phoenix have in north Wales.
Youngsters playing on a two way with the Deeside Dragons, Ross Kennedy on Defence and Ryan Jones on forward. Give the Phoenix tendancy to ice with a shorter roster and, our luck (or lack thereof) with injuries, I think the two youngsters will see a fair amount of ice time!
So thats the roster, how about some games? Continuing the strange summer we've had as Phoenix fans, it was August and we were on the M56 heading for North Wales! Hockey can be a strange and unusual sport sometimes but, its why we all love it! It was good fun driving across to Deeside, this coming season will feel like an adventure each weekend! For those of you who will come to Deeside as an away fan I would recommend arriving a little earlier or, build in a trip to Chester Zoo or Cheshire Oaks at the same time. Both are only about 20 minutes away from the Ice Rink!
Cats enter the Dragons Lair:
Swindon Wildcats were the first visitors to the Phoenix new home and the first with Stevie Lyle as player coach. The Cat's have retianed the majority of their 14/15 roster, the significant changes coming in their imports. Hoog and Kana were not retained, placed by Miroslav Zalasak and Sami Ryhanen. The game really was fun to watch, Swindon and Phoenix have similarities in the way they play. Swindon, for me, looked very solid if a little un-inspiring at times. Throughout the game the main players just didnt seem to catch fire. Im really looking at Nell and Kostal. They seemed to huff and puff but not really get anywhere. The Phoenix, while looking a bit more kamikaze in defence had pace to burn and would often get in behind the Wildcats defence. In the end the Phoenix were able to capitalise on that pace while doing just enough in defence to keep the Wildcats at bay. Plus, Steve Fone was in outstanding form!
Reality check from the Champions:
After the weekends optimism playing the Wildcats and, a 4-3 win in Telford the night before sunday was set up to be a cracker. The Tigers come into the 15/16 which a largely unchanged roster. Well, they are champions so, why change something that isn't broken? The only new blood coming from two new players, Joe Graham and Phil Hill. When the game got going the Phoenix looked good in the early stages and took the lead. But, the quality on the Tigers roster began to come through. The Tigers took quick hold of the game and ran away with it. Really no issues with the scoreline for me, the Phoenix looked tired and, coupled with the Tigers depth, just couldn't match up. Best team in the league last year and, on that showing, they will be the ones to beat again!
Sunday, 29 March 2015
Phoenix Rolling - 22nd March Swindon Wildcats
Following the Phoenix excellent win against the Bees the season would be rounded off by the visit of the Swindon Wildcats. This season Swindon have been much improved in the EPL when compared to recent seasons. After the win the previous night, Phoenix had secured 6th place in the table and had nothing but pride riding on this game, for Swindon however, they were battling with the Phantoms for 4th or 5th place in the table. A win for them would see them above the Peterborough outfit so, this would be a competitive game.
The game would also see the last groupon game of the season so, a large crowd swelled the stands as all rose to welcome a certain Tony Hand onto the ice for his last regular season game in his career.
First Period: The game opened up with franetic pace, both teams forwards sharp and testing Fone and Lyle right from the opening puck drop. Phoenix took the early initiative firing two quick goals past Lyle. Frankie Bakrlik scored the first goal at 6min 46sec then Robin Kovar added a second at 7min 51sec. Kovar's effort was a fantastic one man effort. Feeding on a past from Archer Kovar took the puck down the ice, deked Lyle, then circled the net to score an excellent wrap around effort. One for the highlight reel! Fans across the EPL know, Swindon do have a talented team and, one of the best top lines in the league. It was that firepower that would shock the Phoenix and, in the space of about 2 and a half minutes would see the Wildcats surge ahead in the game. Malasinski got the Wildcats on the board at 14min 44sec before two superb goals from Aaron Nell. His first coming at 15min 29sec then, Phoenix gave him the freedom of the Ice Dome to get the Cats third at 17min 02sec. A real shock to the Phoenix system but a deserved lead for the Cats heading into the interval.
Second Period: Ex Phoenix captain Kenton Smith took a slashing penalty early in the second period which sent out the Phoenix powerplay unit. After working the puck around the zone, good interplay between Frankie and Tony saw the puck passed to Adam Walker who scored close in on Lyle, levelling the scores at 25min 32sec. We all know Lyle is a superb netminder at this level, so, one of the best ways past him is to screen him or get in his face. Frankie Bakrlik gave the Phoenix the lead once more when he shot through a screen to score after 26min 59sec. The period continued with great end to end hockey and, the Wildcats kept in touch by scoring with just 6sec left on the clock, Bullas with the Cats goal.
Third Period: With the scores level, the Wildcats needed just one point to secure 4th place. This meant the third period was played at a furious pace and the goals kept coming! Swindon took the lead at 47min 19sec when Loris Taylor took a speculative shot which deceived Steve Fone. The game had been played at such a high standard, the goals too, the Phoenix 5th goal was a highlight. Frankie Bakrlik found Robin Kovar who weaved his way through the Wildcats defence and took a quick wrist shot which beat Lyle, game tied once again at 51min 07sec. I dont think either set of fans would have minded had the game ended 5-5. One last sting in the tail though, in the dying minute, Burlin sent a long shot in on Lyle who coughed up a juicy rebound, Adam Walker, the lone man following it in pounced and lifted the rebound over Lyle into the roof of the night. Scoring the winner with just 26sec left on the clock. The Ice Dome erupted and the Wildcats defeated.
Verdict: What a game, a real goalfest and 60 minutes of fast paced intense hockey. Swindon were unlucky not to leave with a point and, in doing so, were unable to take 4th place in the league. Phoenix did deserve some points from the game and, will feel justified in taking the win. The depleted bench performed admirably against a very good Cats side. The game winner being the icing on the cake!
Attendance: Another big groupon crowd sunday night, i'll say 1,800 in the Ice Dome.
Phoenix 6 Swindon 5 - -Phoenix Article
Phoenix 6 Swindon 5 - Wildcats Article
Phoenix TV:
The game would also see the last groupon game of the season so, a large crowd swelled the stands as all rose to welcome a certain Tony Hand onto the ice for his last regular season game in his career.
First Period: The game opened up with franetic pace, both teams forwards sharp and testing Fone and Lyle right from the opening puck drop. Phoenix took the early initiative firing two quick goals past Lyle. Frankie Bakrlik scored the first goal at 6min 46sec then Robin Kovar added a second at 7min 51sec. Kovar's effort was a fantastic one man effort. Feeding on a past from Archer Kovar took the puck down the ice, deked Lyle, then circled the net to score an excellent wrap around effort. One for the highlight reel! Fans across the EPL know, Swindon do have a talented team and, one of the best top lines in the league. It was that firepower that would shock the Phoenix and, in the space of about 2 and a half minutes would see the Wildcats surge ahead in the game. Malasinski got the Wildcats on the board at 14min 44sec before two superb goals from Aaron Nell. His first coming at 15min 29sec then, Phoenix gave him the freedom of the Ice Dome to get the Cats third at 17min 02sec. A real shock to the Phoenix system but a deserved lead for the Cats heading into the interval.
Second Period: Ex Phoenix captain Kenton Smith took a slashing penalty early in the second period which sent out the Phoenix powerplay unit. After working the puck around the zone, good interplay between Frankie and Tony saw the puck passed to Adam Walker who scored close in on Lyle, levelling the scores at 25min 32sec. We all know Lyle is a superb netminder at this level, so, one of the best ways past him is to screen him or get in his face. Frankie Bakrlik gave the Phoenix the lead once more when he shot through a screen to score after 26min 59sec. The period continued with great end to end hockey and, the Wildcats kept in touch by scoring with just 6sec left on the clock, Bullas with the Cats goal.
Third Period: With the scores level, the Wildcats needed just one point to secure 4th place. This meant the third period was played at a furious pace and the goals kept coming! Swindon took the lead at 47min 19sec when Loris Taylor took a speculative shot which deceived Steve Fone. The game had been played at such a high standard, the goals too, the Phoenix 5th goal was a highlight. Frankie Bakrlik found Robin Kovar who weaved his way through the Wildcats defence and took a quick wrist shot which beat Lyle, game tied once again at 51min 07sec. I dont think either set of fans would have minded had the game ended 5-5. One last sting in the tail though, in the dying minute, Burlin sent a long shot in on Lyle who coughed up a juicy rebound, Adam Walker, the lone man following it in pounced and lifted the rebound over Lyle into the roof of the night. Scoring the winner with just 26sec left on the clock. The Ice Dome erupted and the Wildcats defeated.
Verdict: What a game, a real goalfest and 60 minutes of fast paced intense hockey. Swindon were unlucky not to leave with a point and, in doing so, were unable to take 4th place in the league. Phoenix did deserve some points from the game and, will feel justified in taking the win. The depleted bench performed admirably against a very good Cats side. The game winner being the icing on the cake!
Attendance: Another big groupon crowd sunday night, i'll say 1,800 in the Ice Dome.
Phoenix 6 Swindon 5 - -Phoenix Article
Phoenix 6 Swindon 5 - Wildcats Article
Phoenix TV:
Wednesday, 11 February 2015
Phoenix Rolling - 8th February Swindon Wildcats
Last sunday saw the Phoenix and Wildcats continue a remarkable two weeks where they would play each other 4 times. Starting with the Challenge cup first leg in Swidnon (tied 3-3), the two sides met sunday in Altrincham for an EPL clash. Before playing the Challenge cup second leg (thursday) and an away EPL clash this saturday. By this weekend the players and fans will be sick of each other! The plus side being, the games are usually good ones to watch!
Sunday nights EPL game would serve as a good marker for the 2nd leg cup game, also taking place in Altrincham. Phoenix were still without their captain Luke Boothroyd and, to my knowledge, Swindon were at full strength.
First Period: The game began at a fantastic pace, both teams in good form testing the goaltenders early on. Phoenix edged the first 5 minutes pressuring Lyle into some great saves. Bakrlik picked up his usual early penalty from ref Brown and, the powerplay brought the Wildcats into the game. The penalty was killed off but, it was the Wildcats who would take the lead first. Kostal scoring at 15min 28sec on a tight angle on Steve Fone. The period ended with the Wildcats fortunate to be ahead, both sides playing well and, in fairness, the teams should have been level.
Second Period: With former Phoenix man Kenton Smith in the penalty box the Phoenix equalised early in the second period. Frankie Bakrlik getting some revenge with a well taken goal at 20min 31sec. Scores level and the period picked up where the first left off, with some great end to end hockey. Swindon re-took the lead approaching the half way mark in the game. When, at 29min 27sec, they capitalised on a poor Phoenix line change which gave Kana all sorts of time and space to score. In a sign of what was to come, ref Brown gave a stange holding call on Bakrlik, despite Bakrlik being sat on by Shane Moore....go figure! Moore also picking up the same penalty. Phoenix would level the game again at 37min 58sec when Bobby Chamberlain manage to fool Lyle, winding up for a slapshot, Bobby released a slower shot which trickled past Lyle into the Swindon goal.
Third Period: Scores level, 20minutes to settle it! Phoenix got the best possible start by scoring early in the final session. Robin Kovar getting the puck down low and banking it into the goal of Lyle's skates. Phoenix 3rd timed at 42min 07sec. Then, possibly the most controversial moment of the game, Phoenix on a break with Hand on the puck. Hand takes a shot, scores, but the goal is washed off as the net had been kicked off by Lyle. I can say kicked off as Lyle was assessed a two minute penalty for delay of game. Needless to say Phoenix players and fans were not too happy with this. It did seem to affect Lyle though, his play for the next few minutes was awful. Not looking sure of himself at all, he played like he knew what he did! A recent TV comedy show said, 'Karma's a funny thing' and, perhaps it was Karma but Phoenix got their vengeance soon after. Tony Hand scoring again, this time officially, at 46min 02sec when he scored from the back post. With a clear gap on the scoreboard the Phoenix really took control and, would add one further goal before the buzzer. On the powerplay, Kovar found Psurny who roofed the puck, scoring the Phoenix 5th at 58min 12sec.
Verdict: A really good game of hockey between two excellent teams. Phoenix proving that, despite their season, on their day they can beat anyone in this league. It was a good win and a good marker for the cup 2nd leg to follow. Also pleasing that karma came back and bit Lyle on the ass for his actions.
Attendance: Good crowd in the Dome, i'll guess at 1,000.
Phoenix 5 Swindon 2 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 5 Swindon 2 - Wildcats Article
Phoenix 5 Swindon 2 - Swindon Advertiser
Phoenix TV:
Sunday nights EPL game would serve as a good marker for the 2nd leg cup game, also taking place in Altrincham. Phoenix were still without their captain Luke Boothroyd and, to my knowledge, Swindon were at full strength.
First Period: The game began at a fantastic pace, both teams in good form testing the goaltenders early on. Phoenix edged the first 5 minutes pressuring Lyle into some great saves. Bakrlik picked up his usual early penalty from ref Brown and, the powerplay brought the Wildcats into the game. The penalty was killed off but, it was the Wildcats who would take the lead first. Kostal scoring at 15min 28sec on a tight angle on Steve Fone. The period ended with the Wildcats fortunate to be ahead, both sides playing well and, in fairness, the teams should have been level.
Second Period: With former Phoenix man Kenton Smith in the penalty box the Phoenix equalised early in the second period. Frankie Bakrlik getting some revenge with a well taken goal at 20min 31sec. Scores level and the period picked up where the first left off, with some great end to end hockey. Swindon re-took the lead approaching the half way mark in the game. When, at 29min 27sec, they capitalised on a poor Phoenix line change which gave Kana all sorts of time and space to score. In a sign of what was to come, ref Brown gave a stange holding call on Bakrlik, despite Bakrlik being sat on by Shane Moore....go figure! Moore also picking up the same penalty. Phoenix would level the game again at 37min 58sec when Bobby Chamberlain manage to fool Lyle, winding up for a slapshot, Bobby released a slower shot which trickled past Lyle into the Swindon goal.
Third Period: Scores level, 20minutes to settle it! Phoenix got the best possible start by scoring early in the final session. Robin Kovar getting the puck down low and banking it into the goal of Lyle's skates. Phoenix 3rd timed at 42min 07sec. Then, possibly the most controversial moment of the game, Phoenix on a break with Hand on the puck. Hand takes a shot, scores, but the goal is washed off as the net had been kicked off by Lyle. I can say kicked off as Lyle was assessed a two minute penalty for delay of game. Needless to say Phoenix players and fans were not too happy with this. It did seem to affect Lyle though, his play for the next few minutes was awful. Not looking sure of himself at all, he played like he knew what he did! A recent TV comedy show said, 'Karma's a funny thing' and, perhaps it was Karma but Phoenix got their vengeance soon after. Tony Hand scoring again, this time officially, at 46min 02sec when he scored from the back post. With a clear gap on the scoreboard the Phoenix really took control and, would add one further goal before the buzzer. On the powerplay, Kovar found Psurny who roofed the puck, scoring the Phoenix 5th at 58min 12sec.
Verdict: A really good game of hockey between two excellent teams. Phoenix proving that, despite their season, on their day they can beat anyone in this league. It was a good win and a good marker for the cup 2nd leg to follow. Also pleasing that karma came back and bit Lyle on the ass for his actions.
Attendance: Good crowd in the Dome, i'll guess at 1,000.
Phoenix 5 Swindon 2 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 5 Swindon 2 - Wildcats Article
Phoenix 5 Swindon 2 - Swindon Advertiser
Phoenix TV:
Friday, 19 September 2014
Phoenix Rolling 14th Sep - Swindon Wildcats
Rosters signed, players arrived, pre-season done and dusted, not it's time for the 9 teams in the EPL to gear up and kick off their assault on the 2014/15 EPL Ice Hockey seasons. The Phoenix, as league champions, come into the season with a target on their back. A new EPL landscape has emerged, the usual suspects will be there or there abouts, your Phoenixes, Bison's, MK's, big spenders Guildford will challenge and, now joined by free spending Telford. This years EPL title will be one of the hardest to win!
Phoenix opened their EPL campaign with a trip to the hive to take on the Bracknell Bees, consensus through last season seemed to be that the Bees struggled to score. Their summer recruiting does not look to have solved the problem and the game, saturday night, seemed to prove that theory. The Phoenix coming away with a 3-1 victory.
Bees 1 - Phoenix 3 - Bees
Bees 1 - Phoenix 3 - Phoenix
For the first time in the league fans of the Phoenix and Wildcats arrived at the Altrincham Ice Dome to sunshine and warm temperatures, a bit strange when attending a hockey game! Wildcats came to the Ice Dome with some familiar faces in Lyle, Nell etc...but with some new blood too in Malasinski replacing the 'irreplaceable' Hoog. Time will tell!
First Period: Phoenix burst to live from the off taking the puck to the Wildcats and, it was the home side who lit the lamp first. Some early pressure lead to a strong shot from Hand on net, which Lyle managed to get the most of, but not all! As the puck trickled behind him James Archer was on hand, driving the net, to roof the free puck. Scoring at 1min 13sec. Phoenix continued to take the fight to the Wildcats getting plenty of shots on Lyle but, finding Lyle more than equal. No other goals were scored but, former Phoenix captain Kenton Smith talked his way into a mis-conduct penalty after an offside decision.
Second Period: While Swindon were edging back into the game the Phoenix continued to edge the play. The visitors were getting more success in moving Fone and creating chances, their forward getting their legs going and stretching the Phoenix defence. The home side would score again though, when Frankie Bakrlik took a couple of quick steps and firing off a shot to Lyle's surprise. The Phoenix second goal coming at 27min 37sec. Swindon kept at it though and, after a tangle in front of the Phoenix net. Robin Kovar was called for tripping putting the visitors on the powerplay. It was a great powerplay actually, really quick, stretching the Phoenix D pulling them out of place, and creating the opening for Malasinski to score at 38min 39sec. Swidnon ending the period in control.
Third Period: It seemed like the Swindon goal at the end of the second spurred them on in the third. Just 31sec into the final session and the Wildcats had tied the game. Oliver Betteridge scoring at 40min 31sec. Phoenix could have let that moment overrun them but, they re-grouped and dug deep. Working hard to create chances and go toe to toe with the Wildcats the hard work was finally rewarded. After some good pressure in the Wildcats zone moving the visitors around the zone, Michal Psurny pounced on a loose puck and forced home the goal of Lyle's skate. Giving the Phoenix the lead at 42min 38sec. Swindon were coming into the game more and more as the Phoenix looked to tire. With tired leg's mistakes happen and a turnover in the Wildcats zone led to the puck finding Nell on their own blue line who raced away, deked Fone and roof the puck to tie the game once again, superb goal! Their 3rd timed at 54min 50sec. Both sides tried to find a winner but none came, sending the game into Overtime.
Overtime: With more space available on the ice both teams played some intense end to end hockey. Both Lyle and Fone standing tall and repelling all that came against them. For the last 90sec the Phoenix did go on the powerplay but were not able to score a winner.
Penalties: Swindon winning on penalty shots, scorers Kostal and Malasinski, Phoenix scorer Archer.
Verdict: Which ever way you cut it it is disappointing to loose on penalty shots. Overall it was an even but very entertaining game, both teams have quality on the ice. The Phoenix had the first half of the game, Wildcats the second half. Overtime didn't really produce much and Penalty Shots are a lottery. What disappointed me about the Phoenix in the PS was, including Archer who scored, no one seemed to have full control of the puck going into the net. Swindon took theirs well, making Fone go post to post and then roofing it. So, disappointed to loose but, 3pts from 4 in the first league weekend? I'll take that! The Phoenix were much improved when compared to their WOTR loss to Sheffield the weekend before. They will be much improved again by the time the Steeldogs roll into town this sunday!
Phoenix 3 Wildcats 4 APS - Phoenix
Phoeni 3 Wildcats 4 APS - Wildcats
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Phoenix opened their EPL campaign with a trip to the hive to take on the Bracknell Bees, consensus through last season seemed to be that the Bees struggled to score. Their summer recruiting does not look to have solved the problem and the game, saturday night, seemed to prove that theory. The Phoenix coming away with a 3-1 victory.
Bees 1 - Phoenix 3 - Bees
Bees 1 - Phoenix 3 - Phoenix
For the first time in the league fans of the Phoenix and Wildcats arrived at the Altrincham Ice Dome to sunshine and warm temperatures, a bit strange when attending a hockey game! Wildcats came to the Ice Dome with some familiar faces in Lyle, Nell etc...but with some new blood too in Malasinski replacing the 'irreplaceable' Hoog. Time will tell!
First Period: Phoenix burst to live from the off taking the puck to the Wildcats and, it was the home side who lit the lamp first. Some early pressure lead to a strong shot from Hand on net, which Lyle managed to get the most of, but not all! As the puck trickled behind him James Archer was on hand, driving the net, to roof the free puck. Scoring at 1min 13sec. Phoenix continued to take the fight to the Wildcats getting plenty of shots on Lyle but, finding Lyle more than equal. No other goals were scored but, former Phoenix captain Kenton Smith talked his way into a mis-conduct penalty after an offside decision.
Second Period: While Swindon were edging back into the game the Phoenix continued to edge the play. The visitors were getting more success in moving Fone and creating chances, their forward getting their legs going and stretching the Phoenix defence. The home side would score again though, when Frankie Bakrlik took a couple of quick steps and firing off a shot to Lyle's surprise. The Phoenix second goal coming at 27min 37sec. Swindon kept at it though and, after a tangle in front of the Phoenix net. Robin Kovar was called for tripping putting the visitors on the powerplay. It was a great powerplay actually, really quick, stretching the Phoenix D pulling them out of place, and creating the opening for Malasinski to score at 38min 39sec. Swidnon ending the period in control.
Third Period: It seemed like the Swindon goal at the end of the second spurred them on in the third. Just 31sec into the final session and the Wildcats had tied the game. Oliver Betteridge scoring at 40min 31sec. Phoenix could have let that moment overrun them but, they re-grouped and dug deep. Working hard to create chances and go toe to toe with the Wildcats the hard work was finally rewarded. After some good pressure in the Wildcats zone moving the visitors around the zone, Michal Psurny pounced on a loose puck and forced home the goal of Lyle's skate. Giving the Phoenix the lead at 42min 38sec. Swindon were coming into the game more and more as the Phoenix looked to tire. With tired leg's mistakes happen and a turnover in the Wildcats zone led to the puck finding Nell on their own blue line who raced away, deked Fone and roof the puck to tie the game once again, superb goal! Their 3rd timed at 54min 50sec. Both sides tried to find a winner but none came, sending the game into Overtime.
Overtime: With more space available on the ice both teams played some intense end to end hockey. Both Lyle and Fone standing tall and repelling all that came against them. For the last 90sec the Phoenix did go on the powerplay but were not able to score a winner.
Penalties: Swindon winning on penalty shots, scorers Kostal and Malasinski, Phoenix scorer Archer.
Verdict: Which ever way you cut it it is disappointing to loose on penalty shots. Overall it was an even but very entertaining game, both teams have quality on the ice. The Phoenix had the first half of the game, Wildcats the second half. Overtime didn't really produce much and Penalty Shots are a lottery. What disappointed me about the Phoenix in the PS was, including Archer who scored, no one seemed to have full control of the puck going into the net. Swindon took theirs well, making Fone go post to post and then roofing it. So, disappointed to loose but, 3pts from 4 in the first league weekend? I'll take that! The Phoenix were much improved when compared to their WOTR loss to Sheffield the weekend before. They will be much improved again by the time the Steeldogs roll into town this sunday!
Phoenix 3 Wildcats 4 APS - Phoenix
Phoeni 3 Wildcats 4 APS - Wildcats
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Wednesday, 19 March 2014
Phoenix v Basingstoke Bison 16th March
The weekend had arrived, the most important weekend of the season for Phoenix and Bison fans, the long road finally lead to sunday night's epic clash between the top two for the EPL crown. Before the title decider both teams had saturday games to play, Bison at home to Steeldogs and the Phoenix away to the Wildcats. The Angry Budgie made a rare away day to Swindon saturday. The trip gave a chance to catch up with some old friends and take in the Wildcats/Phoenix game.
So we have a brief run down of the Phoenix away in Swidon.......Phoenix were rubbish!
Really as simple as that, the team played badly and got what they deserved...no points. It was, comfortably, the worst performance of the season by the Phoenix, as described by fellow Phoenix fans and, even a Wildcats fan. Passing was poor, we just couldn't set up regularly in the Wildcats zone, which led to little quality chances on Lyle. All that being said, credit to the Wildcats! They are in good form at the moment and worked hard on upsetting the Phoenix. The forecheck was high and they really hustled centre ice which disrupted the Phoenix transition into their zone.
Wildcats 2 Phoenix 0 - Phoenix Article
Wildcats 2 Phoenix 0 - Wildcats Article
Absolutely no issues from me with the result. With the Bison beating Sheffield at home the sunday meeting between the two sides became the nailed on title decider it was always likely to be! Pleasing for me was to see some Phoenix players reactions to saturday nights game, this meant I went to Sunday's game weirdly confident!
After a long drive north from Swindon it was an early arrival at the Ice Dome for The Angry Budgie. A big big crowd came to the Ice Dome to watch this vital game, including a big contingent from Basingstoke. The lights went out, the players came onto the ice and the puck dropped on the biggest game in the EPL season to date.
First Period: With Wardell in charge, in Altrincham for the first time in ages, the title decider got underway. Bison have a strong roster this year and, certainly bigger roster than the Phoenix. The first period was tight and tense, as you would expect. The home crowd were doing their best and the atmosphere was fantastic in the first period. After the dire performance the previous night the Phoenix came out the blocks looking their old self against the Bison. Taking the puck and creating most of the chances the Phoenix settled some nerves by lighting the lamp first. James Archer scoring the first goal of the game at 12min 09sec. The goal brought the game to life and the Bison worked hard to get back on level terms. The first goal for the Bison did come in the first when Melichrino tied the game at 17min 16sec. The goal silencing the home crowd for a few moments. The period continued at a high pace until the buzzer sounded ending a thoroughly entertaining 20mins of hockey.
Second Period: The second period continued as the first had left off, both sets of fans making lots of noise and the game remaining tight on the ice. Mettam as being worked a little more than Fone but the Bison were still pressing and keeping the Phoenix honest in defence. Chances continued to be made until midway through the second period when the Phoenix extended their lead. After gaining the Bison zone the Phoenix moved the puck around the perimeter until Schnabel had it on the point. With a good screen on Mettam Schnabel let rip with a pin point wrister to score the Phoenix second at 29min 51sec. Phoenix fans upped the noise level and were rewarded with another goal with 5 minutes to go in the period. A superb bit of passing opened up the Bison D so Hand had some space on the goal line who then found Psurny un-marked on the back post for an easy tap in. The third goal coming at 35min 24sec. The delight in the stands was instantly shattered when, Bison showed their own quality by hitting right back. Doug Sheppard capping a quick and incisive move that saw the Bison score straight from the faceoff and reduce the arrears to one goal, goal timed at 35min 53sec. So 3-2 Phoenix with the Bison hitting right back was a blow, the last few minutes were still even and filled with good hockey. In fact the home fans were delighted once more when Tony Hand took a shot on the powerplay and restored the Phoenix two goal lead. His PP goal coking at 37min 53sec. The final few minutes would be key. If the Phoenix could end the period 2 goals ahead the title would be edging ever closer.
Third Period: 20 minutes, 20 minutes separated the Phoenix from their 2nd EPL title. Personally I could not look at the clock, I didn't want to! The Phoenix were calming the nerves though, possible combined with the Bison legs tiring, they had a tough game versus Sheffield the night before, so the Phoenix began to control the period. Not wanting to over extend too much the Phoenix played it simple....for the most part! Haha! The two sides continued to battle with Fone and Mettam pulling off some great stops but the clock continued to tick down. Going into the final few minutes the Bison pressed and pulled Mettam. Phoenix tried for the empty net but missing by inches at times. The clock got into the last 10 seconds and the Phoenix won the faceoff, cycled the puck round the back boards to Kovar who lofted it goalwards and, in true fairy tail style, the empty net goal was scored at 59min 59sec. Cue pandemonium on the ice and in the stands, the Phoenix had done it, EPL champions baby!
Verdict: Putting aside the obvious, this was a really good performance form the Phoenix. It often takes the best opposition for the Phoenix to really play but they did. This was a solid controlling display from the home side who showed few, if any, nerves throughout the game.The whole team stepped up in the face of a quality Bison side and deserved the win. Also a special note again to the Choir Boys, fantastic effort to create a great great atmosphere!
Attendance: Really good crowd, well, for a title decider you'd expect so! 1,800 in the Ice Dome i'll guess!
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Phoenix 5 Bison 2 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 5 Bison 2 - Bison Article
Phoenix 5 Bison 2 - MEN
Phoenix 5 Bison 2 - Basingstoke Gazette
So we have a brief run down of the Phoenix away in Swidon.......Phoenix were rubbish!
Really as simple as that, the team played badly and got what they deserved...no points. It was, comfortably, the worst performance of the season by the Phoenix, as described by fellow Phoenix fans and, even a Wildcats fan. Passing was poor, we just couldn't set up regularly in the Wildcats zone, which led to little quality chances on Lyle. All that being said, credit to the Wildcats! They are in good form at the moment and worked hard on upsetting the Phoenix. The forecheck was high and they really hustled centre ice which disrupted the Phoenix transition into their zone.
Wildcats 2 Phoenix 0 - Phoenix Article
Wildcats 2 Phoenix 0 - Wildcats Article
Absolutely no issues from me with the result. With the Bison beating Sheffield at home the sunday meeting between the two sides became the nailed on title decider it was always likely to be! Pleasing for me was to see some Phoenix players reactions to saturday nights game, this meant I went to Sunday's game weirdly confident!
After a long drive north from Swindon it was an early arrival at the Ice Dome for The Angry Budgie. A big big crowd came to the Ice Dome to watch this vital game, including a big contingent from Basingstoke. The lights went out, the players came onto the ice and the puck dropped on the biggest game in the EPL season to date.
First Period: With Wardell in charge, in Altrincham for the first time in ages, the title decider got underway. Bison have a strong roster this year and, certainly bigger roster than the Phoenix. The first period was tight and tense, as you would expect. The home crowd were doing their best and the atmosphere was fantastic in the first period. After the dire performance the previous night the Phoenix came out the blocks looking their old self against the Bison. Taking the puck and creating most of the chances the Phoenix settled some nerves by lighting the lamp first. James Archer scoring the first goal of the game at 12min 09sec. The goal brought the game to life and the Bison worked hard to get back on level terms. The first goal for the Bison did come in the first when Melichrino tied the game at 17min 16sec. The goal silencing the home crowd for a few moments. The period continued at a high pace until the buzzer sounded ending a thoroughly entertaining 20mins of hockey.
Second Period: The second period continued as the first had left off, both sets of fans making lots of noise and the game remaining tight on the ice. Mettam as being worked a little more than Fone but the Bison were still pressing and keeping the Phoenix honest in defence. Chances continued to be made until midway through the second period when the Phoenix extended their lead. After gaining the Bison zone the Phoenix moved the puck around the perimeter until Schnabel had it on the point. With a good screen on Mettam Schnabel let rip with a pin point wrister to score the Phoenix second at 29min 51sec. Phoenix fans upped the noise level and were rewarded with another goal with 5 minutes to go in the period. A superb bit of passing opened up the Bison D so Hand had some space on the goal line who then found Psurny un-marked on the back post for an easy tap in. The third goal coming at 35min 24sec. The delight in the stands was instantly shattered when, Bison showed their own quality by hitting right back. Doug Sheppard capping a quick and incisive move that saw the Bison score straight from the faceoff and reduce the arrears to one goal, goal timed at 35min 53sec. So 3-2 Phoenix with the Bison hitting right back was a blow, the last few minutes were still even and filled with good hockey. In fact the home fans were delighted once more when Tony Hand took a shot on the powerplay and restored the Phoenix two goal lead. His PP goal coking at 37min 53sec. The final few minutes would be key. If the Phoenix could end the period 2 goals ahead the title would be edging ever closer.
Third Period: 20 minutes, 20 minutes separated the Phoenix from their 2nd EPL title. Personally I could not look at the clock, I didn't want to! The Phoenix were calming the nerves though, possible combined with the Bison legs tiring, they had a tough game versus Sheffield the night before, so the Phoenix began to control the period. Not wanting to over extend too much the Phoenix played it simple....for the most part! Haha! The two sides continued to battle with Fone and Mettam pulling off some great stops but the clock continued to tick down. Going into the final few minutes the Bison pressed and pulled Mettam. Phoenix tried for the empty net but missing by inches at times. The clock got into the last 10 seconds and the Phoenix won the faceoff, cycled the puck round the back boards to Kovar who lofted it goalwards and, in true fairy tail style, the empty net goal was scored at 59min 59sec. Cue pandemonium on the ice and in the stands, the Phoenix had done it, EPL champions baby!
Verdict: Putting aside the obvious, this was a really good performance form the Phoenix. It often takes the best opposition for the Phoenix to really play but they did. This was a solid controlling display from the home side who showed few, if any, nerves throughout the game.The whole team stepped up in the face of a quality Bison side and deserved the win. Also a special note again to the Choir Boys, fantastic effort to create a great great atmosphere!
Attendance: Really good crowd, well, for a title decider you'd expect so! 1,800 in the Ice Dome i'll guess!
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Phoenix 5 Bison 2 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 5 Bison 2 - Bison Article
Phoenix 5 Bison 2 - MEN
Phoenix 5 Bison 2 - Basingstoke Gazette
Sunday, 9 March 2014
Phoenix v Swindon Wildcats 2nd March
This past weekend would see the Phoenix begin to make up some of their games in hand on the Basingstoke Bison. It would be a tough weekend too with 3 games in 3 nights, starting with two tough road games against the Steeldogs and Bees. Before welcoming the Swindon Wildcats to the Ice Dome.
Sheffield 2 Phoenix 3 - Steeldogs
Sheffield 2 Phoenix 3 - Phoenix
Bracknell 1 Phoenix 5 - Bees
Bracknell 1 Phoenix 5 - Phoenix
The win in Sheffield was important as that was a game in hand, it is vital for the Phoenix to convert those games in hand to wins. The win in Bracknell rammed home the previous win. The game against Swindon would now be so important to give the Phoenix a 6pt weekend and really give them an advantage in the title hunt. It would still be a hard game as Swindon are no pushovers and, this game would be the third in three nights. No matter who you are, that is a big toll on the body. So the faithful gathered together to welcome Hoog, Nell and the rest of the Wildcats to Altrincham for the last game in a tough weekend!
First Period: The Phoenix had to make a good start in the game, being the 3rd in 3 nights if the Phoenix were lax and allowed Swindon to control the game it would be a long and frustrating night for the home side. The Phoenix came out the blocks hard, hoping to take the early initiative. The Phoenix took the first penalty of the period but killed it off without much fuss. The first Swidon powerplay gave the Phoenix a chance to score, and they did. Robin Kovar scoring a powerplay goal at 9min 16sec. This kicked off a great period of dominance by the home side as they extended the lead soon after. James Archer, profiting on being on the top line, scored the 2nd goal at 12min 14sec. The 3rd goal came just before the close of the period when Tony Hand scored at 17min 58sec. A great shot from a great player capped off a perfect period for the Phoenix, the home side up 3-0.
Second Period: The Wildcats upped their game in the second period and began to frustrate the home side. They were working hard on protecting Lyle and he was also pulling off some great saves. The Wildcats main offensive threat came from Hoog and Nell who, apart from being some of the best forwards in the EPL, are damn fast! With the Phoenix beginning to tire the Wildcats began to press for a goal. Halfway through the period they got their chance, after a questionable call on James Archer the Wildcats went on the PP. I say questionable as Archer was called for goalie interference, ignoring the fact it was a Wildcats player who pushed him onto Lyle and pinned him down, hey ho! EPL officiating everyone! On the resulting powerplay the Wildcats did get their goal, when Hoog lit the lamp at 28min 24sec. With the score at 3-1 the game became much more tense, the Wildcats were on the up and the Phoenix were just beginning to tire. The home side made it to the end of the session still ahead, 3-1.
Third Period: The final period would be a big test for the Phoenix, the Wildcats have enough skill in their top line to haul a result back from the edge. The Phoenix, and their tiring legs had to make it through one more period for an epic weekend. The first 10 minutes of the period passed with both teams working hard on scraps. As the game moved into the final furlong the Phoenix struck first, Frankie Bakrlik scoring at 52min 44sec. This eased some fears in the home support. You can never count Swidon out though, at 55min 29sec Aaron Nell scored the Wildcats 2nd of the night, he really is too good for the EPL. Things became really interesting when Hoog scored again, on the powerplay at 59min 04sec. The last minute was so tense, the Wildcats rushing pressure and a fantastic faceoff win by Kovar with 7 to go killed the game.
Verdict: A good win and one that was needed to keep the Phoenix in the title race. Being the 3rd in 3 nights this was such a tough test for the home side. A test they managed to pass. A brilliant first period, even second and a Wildcats third ensured a tight game. Thankfully the first period won it for the Phoenix. A real gutsy effort from the Phoenix!
Attendance: I'll say 1,200 in the Ice Dome
Phoenix 5 Swindon 4 - Phoenix
Phoenix 5 Swindon 4 - Wildcats
Sheffield 2 Phoenix 3 - Steeldogs
Sheffield 2 Phoenix 3 - Phoenix
Bracknell 1 Phoenix 5 - Bees
Bracknell 1 Phoenix 5 - Phoenix
The win in Sheffield was important as that was a game in hand, it is vital for the Phoenix to convert those games in hand to wins. The win in Bracknell rammed home the previous win. The game against Swindon would now be so important to give the Phoenix a 6pt weekend and really give them an advantage in the title hunt. It would still be a hard game as Swindon are no pushovers and, this game would be the third in three nights. No matter who you are, that is a big toll on the body. So the faithful gathered together to welcome Hoog, Nell and the rest of the Wildcats to Altrincham for the last game in a tough weekend!
First Period: The Phoenix had to make a good start in the game, being the 3rd in 3 nights if the Phoenix were lax and allowed Swindon to control the game it would be a long and frustrating night for the home side. The Phoenix came out the blocks hard, hoping to take the early initiative. The Phoenix took the first penalty of the period but killed it off without much fuss. The first Swidon powerplay gave the Phoenix a chance to score, and they did. Robin Kovar scoring a powerplay goal at 9min 16sec. This kicked off a great period of dominance by the home side as they extended the lead soon after. James Archer, profiting on being on the top line, scored the 2nd goal at 12min 14sec. The 3rd goal came just before the close of the period when Tony Hand scored at 17min 58sec. A great shot from a great player capped off a perfect period for the Phoenix, the home side up 3-0.
Second Period: The Wildcats upped their game in the second period and began to frustrate the home side. They were working hard on protecting Lyle and he was also pulling off some great saves. The Wildcats main offensive threat came from Hoog and Nell who, apart from being some of the best forwards in the EPL, are damn fast! With the Phoenix beginning to tire the Wildcats began to press for a goal. Halfway through the period they got their chance, after a questionable call on James Archer the Wildcats went on the PP. I say questionable as Archer was called for goalie interference, ignoring the fact it was a Wildcats player who pushed him onto Lyle and pinned him down, hey ho! EPL officiating everyone! On the resulting powerplay the Wildcats did get their goal, when Hoog lit the lamp at 28min 24sec. With the score at 3-1 the game became much more tense, the Wildcats were on the up and the Phoenix were just beginning to tire. The home side made it to the end of the session still ahead, 3-1.
Third Period: The final period would be a big test for the Phoenix, the Wildcats have enough skill in their top line to haul a result back from the edge. The Phoenix, and their tiring legs had to make it through one more period for an epic weekend. The first 10 minutes of the period passed with both teams working hard on scraps. As the game moved into the final furlong the Phoenix struck first, Frankie Bakrlik scoring at 52min 44sec. This eased some fears in the home support. You can never count Swidon out though, at 55min 29sec Aaron Nell scored the Wildcats 2nd of the night, he really is too good for the EPL. Things became really interesting when Hoog scored again, on the powerplay at 59min 04sec. The last minute was so tense, the Wildcats rushing pressure and a fantastic faceoff win by Kovar with 7 to go killed the game.
Verdict: A good win and one that was needed to keep the Phoenix in the title race. Being the 3rd in 3 nights this was such a tough test for the home side. A test they managed to pass. A brilliant first period, even second and a Wildcats third ensured a tight game. Thankfully the first period won it for the Phoenix. A real gutsy effort from the Phoenix!
Attendance: I'll say 1,200 in the Ice Dome
Phoenix 5 Swindon 4 - Phoenix
Phoenix 5 Swindon 4 - Wildcats
Tuesday, 7 January 2014
Phoenix v Swindon Wildcats 5th January
The Phoenix started 2014 with an away trip to the, current league leaders, Basingstoke Bison. The Bison are a tough team to play in their own rink but, with the quality the Phoenix have, we should be able to sneak the odd point from down there. Going in the Phoenix were not in best shape however. Bakrlik was still on the sidelines and, Steve Fone was not in best health. Young back up netminder Paul Maudsley would be handed his first EPL start, quite the baptism of fire! In the end the game was quite close for about 40mins but, a superb second period from the Bison won the game. The herd running out 5-2 winners.
Bison 5 Phoenix 2 - Bison Article
Bison 5 Phoenix 2 - Phoenix Article
Bison 5 Phoenix 2 - Basingstoke Gazette
So, the Phoenix returned to Altrincham, which has become a bit of a fortress recently, to try and get their first win of 2014 and remain in touch with the top of the table. Bakrlik was still out but Fone was back in between the pipes for the visit of the Swindon Wildcats who, had recently bolstered their roster with the return of Aaron Nell.
First Period: A fairly cagey opening period from both sides, the Wildcats playing the road game and trying to minimise the free space in their own zone. The Phoenix still lacking a little confidence meant their early passing was wayward. So no free flowing hockey, it was all a bit scrappy. The Phoenix did get on the board first after 5 minutes when Robin Kovar converted the Phoenix first powerplay opportunity, scoring at 5min 11sec. With neither team taking hold of the game there were chances both ways, Wildcats equilized when Kostal capped off a great move from the visitors which cut through the Phoenix D with worrying ease. His goal coming at 7min 59sec. When you look at Swindon play, they are fast in the forwards, Kostal looked good early on and Hoog slowly got himself into the game. Hoog would give the Wildcats the lead at 9min 16sec with a goal that rewarded the slight Swindon edge over the period.
Second Period: While the Phoenix were not at their best, while it was just a 1 goal deficit the Phoenix always had a chance to get back into the game. The Phoenix were working hard in the second period, they needed to help Fone out, while he was playing it was clear Fone was not 100% as he was givign up rebounds that were not being cleared. Over the period the Phoenix D were improving and, the forwards just began to click. The passing was making the stick rather than just behind/in front of the player. Within a 79sec period the Phoenix had wrestled the game back from the visitors. Michal Psurny scoring the Phoenix second at 30min 44sec, then Richie Bentham gave the home side the lead just 24sec later at 31min 08sec then Robin Kovar got his second of the game at 32min 03sec. A quite brilliant comeback!
Third Period: The Wildcats had to open up and go for it in the third period, which would work in the Phoenix favour. The Phoenix had done well in getting plenty of shots on Lyle and with Swindon needing to press, more chances would come. Early into the third period and Swindon made things interesting by lighting the lamp. Aaron Nell proving he is still a top top EPL forward, scoring at 43min 01sec. With the Wildcats cutting the deficit the Phoenix had to concentrate and not slip up. A powerplay opportunity gave the home side a perfect chance, and they converted yet again. Michal Psurny scoring after 45min 21sec. That PP goal sucked the life out of Swindon and the game settled down to run its course. Nearing 5 minutes to go the Phoenix added the icing to a good performance when Robin Kovar got his 3rd of the night at 54min 43sec.
Verdict: After a shaky start the Phoenix clamped down on their mistakes and blew Swindon away in an important second period performance. While the Phoenix need to work on taking points from their rivals they can, at least, rely on their home form. In the end a good performance. A quick note on Swindon, they have talent in goal, they have talent up front but, their D and defencive team work needs work. Lyle regularly faces the most shots in the league, the Phoenix put 54 on Lyle while Fone faced 28. Swindon need to cut down the number of shots Lyle is facing if they want success in the league and playoffs.
Attendance: A good crowd for the new year, 1,200
Phoenix 6 Wildcats 3 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 6 Wildcats 3 - Wildcats Article
Phoenix 6 Wildcats 3 - Bolton News
Phoenix 6 Wildcats 3 - Swindon Advertiser
Bison 5 Phoenix 2 - Bison Article
Bison 5 Phoenix 2 - Phoenix Article
Bison 5 Phoenix 2 - Basingstoke Gazette
So, the Phoenix returned to Altrincham, which has become a bit of a fortress recently, to try and get their first win of 2014 and remain in touch with the top of the table. Bakrlik was still out but Fone was back in between the pipes for the visit of the Swindon Wildcats who, had recently bolstered their roster with the return of Aaron Nell.
First Period: A fairly cagey opening period from both sides, the Wildcats playing the road game and trying to minimise the free space in their own zone. The Phoenix still lacking a little confidence meant their early passing was wayward. So no free flowing hockey, it was all a bit scrappy. The Phoenix did get on the board first after 5 minutes when Robin Kovar converted the Phoenix first powerplay opportunity, scoring at 5min 11sec. With neither team taking hold of the game there were chances both ways, Wildcats equilized when Kostal capped off a great move from the visitors which cut through the Phoenix D with worrying ease. His goal coming at 7min 59sec. When you look at Swindon play, they are fast in the forwards, Kostal looked good early on and Hoog slowly got himself into the game. Hoog would give the Wildcats the lead at 9min 16sec with a goal that rewarded the slight Swindon edge over the period.
Second Period: While the Phoenix were not at their best, while it was just a 1 goal deficit the Phoenix always had a chance to get back into the game. The Phoenix were working hard in the second period, they needed to help Fone out, while he was playing it was clear Fone was not 100% as he was givign up rebounds that were not being cleared. Over the period the Phoenix D were improving and, the forwards just began to click. The passing was making the stick rather than just behind/in front of the player. Within a 79sec period the Phoenix had wrestled the game back from the visitors. Michal Psurny scoring the Phoenix second at 30min 44sec, then Richie Bentham gave the home side the lead just 24sec later at 31min 08sec then Robin Kovar got his second of the game at 32min 03sec. A quite brilliant comeback!
Third Period: The Wildcats had to open up and go for it in the third period, which would work in the Phoenix favour. The Phoenix had done well in getting plenty of shots on Lyle and with Swindon needing to press, more chances would come. Early into the third period and Swindon made things interesting by lighting the lamp. Aaron Nell proving he is still a top top EPL forward, scoring at 43min 01sec. With the Wildcats cutting the deficit the Phoenix had to concentrate and not slip up. A powerplay opportunity gave the home side a perfect chance, and they converted yet again. Michal Psurny scoring after 45min 21sec. That PP goal sucked the life out of Swindon and the game settled down to run its course. Nearing 5 minutes to go the Phoenix added the icing to a good performance when Robin Kovar got his 3rd of the night at 54min 43sec.
Verdict: After a shaky start the Phoenix clamped down on their mistakes and blew Swindon away in an important second period performance. While the Phoenix need to work on taking points from their rivals they can, at least, rely on their home form. In the end a good performance. A quick note on Swindon, they have talent in goal, they have talent up front but, their D and defencive team work needs work. Lyle regularly faces the most shots in the league, the Phoenix put 54 on Lyle while Fone faced 28. Swindon need to cut down the number of shots Lyle is facing if they want success in the league and playoffs.
Attendance: A good crowd for the new year, 1,200
Phoenix 6 Wildcats 3 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 6 Wildcats 3 - Wildcats Article
Phoenix 6 Wildcats 3 - Bolton News
Phoenix 6 Wildcats 3 - Swindon Advertiser
Thursday, 12 December 2013
Phoenix v MK Lightning 8th December
As Christmas approaches the EPL season continues apace. The Phoenix faced two tricky games over last weekend, a trip down the motorway to the link centre for their second game against the Wildcats in Swindon. Then, sunday, a home game against the MK Lightning. The trip to Swindon saw the Phoenix getting another superb road win. The Link centre has been a difficult hunting ground for the Phoenix, in the past, this season the Phoenix have done well.
Sunday's visit of the MK Lightning was also the fist game on a recent Groupon offer the Phoenix had put out. The Phoenix did this last season with some success. Tonight's game saw a larger crowd come to the Ice Dome, so much so that the face off was delayed. MK were without a number of players, some through injury and some who were off playing for GB U20's, Phoenix were at full strength.
First Period: Off we went, the early stages were fairly even. Both Fone and Wall were called into action but both goalies were in good form. Phoenix put more shots on goal in the early stages but, MK were lightning fast (bdum tsch) on the break. Phoenix took the lead when Tony Hand skated up ice and, using a screen in front of Wall, put a shot on goal, timed at 7min 16sec.. The light lit and the home fans celebrated. Against MK it is always advisable to get the first goal. As the period progressed the Phoenix began to take some control but, as the period entered the final 5 minutes, the Phoenix gave up three breakaway chances which sent pulses racing, In fact the posts had come to the Phoenix aid a few times during the period! As the period ended, with the way the Phoenix were defending it was no surprise MK found their equilizer. The goal coming from Lascek at 19min 48sec.
Second Period: The Phoenix started to take some control in the second period, MK were not playing to their usual strengths. There was not the same level of physicality from MK and this allowed the Phoenix the control. Phoenix were putting more and more shots on Wall but, like his name, he was proving difficult to get past. The Phoenix defence, while allowing some chances, started to shut the door and deny MK clear cut chances. The Phoenix took the lead when Michal Psurny scored a powerplay goal, timed at 27min 03sec. The Phoenix also took a bad penalty in the second period, in reality it was an appalling call from the referee. Bakrlik took a hit behind the MK net with an MK player leaving blood on the ice. The call was a 5 plus match for accidental high sticks, in reality it was an elbow. The penalty kill would prove to be huge, the Phoenix got through it without conceding, which was a big blow to MK.
Third Period: The third period began and MK looked a little tired in the early stages. The short bench was really starting to affect the away team but, it didn't stop them creating a few chances. The game would turn on a 40 second passage of play mid way through the third period. The Phoenix extended their lead at 49min 05sec when Schnabel unleashed a booming shot from the blue line. One for the highlight reel I think! Then, just as the crowd was taking its seats and the announcement was being made, the Phoenix scored again. Richie Bentham scoring at 49min 45sec. The scoreboard now read 4-1 Phoenix and the MK fight began to fade.
Verdict: A cracking win for the Phoenix, albeit against a weakened MK team. But a win is a win, the Phoenix played well, the early defensive wobbles were ironed out quickly and the forwards took their chances. The only blight was the horrendous call on Bakrlik. Even MK fans agreed it was a BS call, thankfully it will be downgraded to a game penalty. Even so, it was rubbish!
Attendance: With the groupon offer the crowd was bigger than usual, i'll guess at 1,600 in the Ice Dome.
Phoenix 4 MK 1 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 4 MK 1 - MK Article
The Angry Budgie EPL Podcast 5
Sunday's visit of the MK Lightning was also the fist game on a recent Groupon offer the Phoenix had put out. The Phoenix did this last season with some success. Tonight's game saw a larger crowd come to the Ice Dome, so much so that the face off was delayed. MK were without a number of players, some through injury and some who were off playing for GB U20's, Phoenix were at full strength.
First Period: Off we went, the early stages were fairly even. Both Fone and Wall were called into action but both goalies were in good form. Phoenix put more shots on goal in the early stages but, MK were lightning fast (bdum tsch) on the break. Phoenix took the lead when Tony Hand skated up ice and, using a screen in front of Wall, put a shot on goal, timed at 7min 16sec.. The light lit and the home fans celebrated. Against MK it is always advisable to get the first goal. As the period progressed the Phoenix began to take some control but, as the period entered the final 5 minutes, the Phoenix gave up three breakaway chances which sent pulses racing, In fact the posts had come to the Phoenix aid a few times during the period! As the period ended, with the way the Phoenix were defending it was no surprise MK found their equilizer. The goal coming from Lascek at 19min 48sec.
Second Period: The Phoenix started to take some control in the second period, MK were not playing to their usual strengths. There was not the same level of physicality from MK and this allowed the Phoenix the control. Phoenix were putting more and more shots on Wall but, like his name, he was proving difficult to get past. The Phoenix defence, while allowing some chances, started to shut the door and deny MK clear cut chances. The Phoenix took the lead when Michal Psurny scored a powerplay goal, timed at 27min 03sec. The Phoenix also took a bad penalty in the second period, in reality it was an appalling call from the referee. Bakrlik took a hit behind the MK net with an MK player leaving blood on the ice. The call was a 5 plus match for accidental high sticks, in reality it was an elbow. The penalty kill would prove to be huge, the Phoenix got through it without conceding, which was a big blow to MK.
Third Period: The third period began and MK looked a little tired in the early stages. The short bench was really starting to affect the away team but, it didn't stop them creating a few chances. The game would turn on a 40 second passage of play mid way through the third period. The Phoenix extended their lead at 49min 05sec when Schnabel unleashed a booming shot from the blue line. One for the highlight reel I think! Then, just as the crowd was taking its seats and the announcement was being made, the Phoenix scored again. Richie Bentham scoring at 49min 45sec. The scoreboard now read 4-1 Phoenix and the MK fight began to fade.
Verdict: A cracking win for the Phoenix, albeit against a weakened MK team. But a win is a win, the Phoenix played well, the early defensive wobbles were ironed out quickly and the forwards took their chances. The only blight was the horrendous call on Bakrlik. Even MK fans agreed it was a BS call, thankfully it will be downgraded to a game penalty. Even so, it was rubbish!
Attendance: With the groupon offer the crowd was bigger than usual, i'll guess at 1,600 in the Ice Dome.
Phoenix 4 MK 1 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 4 MK 1 - MK Article
The Angry Budgie EPL Podcast 5
Tuesday, 19 November 2013
Phoenix v Swindon Wildcats 16th November
Up next for the Phoenix was a saturday home game versus the Swindon Wildcats. This would only be the second meeting between to two sides this EPL season. The Phoenix skating away with a win in the only game, previously, down in Swindon. It has been a mixed season so far for the Wildcats coming off a summer where they lost one star and gained another. Out went Aaron Nell to the EIHL and in came Stevie Lyle. While Jonas Hoog has remained the Wildcats will miss the production of one of the best British forwards in the UK at the moment. Lyle's arrival, partly to be closer to home, has seen an upgrade in goaltending. New import Juha Silvander has also been released early into the season.
So, a new look Swindon team came to the Ice Dome and we, fans, all congregated at a chilly Ice Dome.
First Period: The puck dropped and off we went, except, someone forgot to tell the Phoenix! Before a stunned home crowd the Wildcats had raced to a 2-0 lead just 91 seconds into the game. Unfortunately, the Phoenix were napping for both goals. Swindon, to give them their credit, were switched on and took their chances well. With Swindon, if you can shut down their top line, they struggle...yeah we didn't do that in the first 5 minutes! After losing possession around the Swindon blue line the Wildcats broke, quickly, up ice and the puck was fed to Hoog. He took the puck down the left wing and unleashed a wicked shot from the top of the face off circle right past Fone. Just 60 seconds later Swindon did it again. A deflected put was launched up ice, with a high bounce over the centre circle. Ben Wood for the Phoenix had his eye on it but, didn't come forward and deal with it allowing the puck to bounce. The puck bounced dead, perfectly for Symonds who took a shot through Wood and into Fone's net. Steve wont be happy with conceding two goals from long shots. That said, 91seconds in, Swindon held a deserved lead! The Phoenix had to wake up and, they slowly did. As the period progressed the Phoenix pressed Lyle and the Swindon net and, were rewarded at 6min 46sec, when Psurny got the home side on the board. The Phoenix continued to warm up and begin to dominate possession but, Swindon looked potent and fast on the break. Phoenix would have to keep their concentration to get something from this game.
Second Period: The Phoenix continued to press in the second period but, found Lyle to be just as good as ever. The switch from Basingstoke to Swindon has seen Lyle face more shots, so far this year, the second period was no different! The Phoenix were getting plenty of rubber on Lyle but nothing too testing. A netminder of his quality will eat up shots from the perimeter all day. While Swindon could not keep the Phoenix out all the time, the home side were not picking up on the re-bounds either.The Phoenix needed to get Lyle moving, which is what they did for their first goal. The Phoenix scored the only goal of the period at the midway point. Some slick passing had the Wildcats losing structure in their zone and Archer was found at the hash marks and he found the smallest of gaps between Lyle's legs. Game now tied up and back to square one. The home crowd expected now, the home side had the quality to score goals, they just had to prevent turnovers giving the Wildcats fast breakout chances.
Third Period: The final period matched much of the second. Phoenix with chances on Lyle while trying to limit Swindon breaking up ice. The Wildcats are a good team but, perhaps, rely on Hoog too much now. Their main threat comes from that top line. They can rely on Lyle to a certain extent too, the Bison did, but the Cats are not as well organised as the Bison and, as a result, allow more chances than the Bison. There was only one goal in the third period, it came for the home side, once again mid way through the period. At 51min 49sec Frantisek Bakrlik put the home side ahead for the first time with a well taken goal. With the clock counting down, Lyle looked to the bench for the extra skater but, the Wildcats just couldn't get control in the Phoenix zone until the final few seconds. The clock ran down, the whistle went and the home side won.
Verdict: While the early goals were a concern, I was not worried at all. Yes 2-0 after 91 seconds is bad but, that left 58min 29sec for the Phoenix to find three goals. With the quality we have, that was entirely possible. Stevie Lyle is still top drawer but, he needs a good team in front to be a brick wall. Swindon just are not that team, Lyle faced a season high of 60 shots in the game. With that many shots, the odds are the other team will score. The only thing I'd have like to see the Phoenix do more, would be to get Lyle moving post to post more. He is great facing head on shots but, get him travelling and that's where chances come from!
Attendance: Saturday nights never produce the biggest crowds at the Ice Dome and, this was no exception. I would say 800 in the Ice Dome.
Phoenix 3 Swindon 2 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix then travelled down to Guildford sunday for a top of the table clash with the Flames. The game was tight until the first half of the final period where the Flames scored 3 unanswered to take hold. Despite a late consolation, the Phoenix would head north pointless.
Guildford 4 Phoenix 2 - Phoenix Article
Guildford 4 Phoenix 2 - MEN Article
Guildford 4 Phoenix 2 - Flames Article
One final link for you all, the second ever Angry Budgie Podcast is available for your listening pleasure.....or not! Haha!
So, a new look Swindon team came to the Ice Dome and we, fans, all congregated at a chilly Ice Dome.
First Period: The puck dropped and off we went, except, someone forgot to tell the Phoenix! Before a stunned home crowd the Wildcats had raced to a 2-0 lead just 91 seconds into the game. Unfortunately, the Phoenix were napping for both goals. Swindon, to give them their credit, were switched on and took their chances well. With Swindon, if you can shut down their top line, they struggle...yeah we didn't do that in the first 5 minutes! After losing possession around the Swindon blue line the Wildcats broke, quickly, up ice and the puck was fed to Hoog. He took the puck down the left wing and unleashed a wicked shot from the top of the face off circle right past Fone. Just 60 seconds later Swindon did it again. A deflected put was launched up ice, with a high bounce over the centre circle. Ben Wood for the Phoenix had his eye on it but, didn't come forward and deal with it allowing the puck to bounce. The puck bounced dead, perfectly for Symonds who took a shot through Wood and into Fone's net. Steve wont be happy with conceding two goals from long shots. That said, 91seconds in, Swindon held a deserved lead! The Phoenix had to wake up and, they slowly did. As the period progressed the Phoenix pressed Lyle and the Swindon net and, were rewarded at 6min 46sec, when Psurny got the home side on the board. The Phoenix continued to warm up and begin to dominate possession but, Swindon looked potent and fast on the break. Phoenix would have to keep their concentration to get something from this game.
Second Period: The Phoenix continued to press in the second period but, found Lyle to be just as good as ever. The switch from Basingstoke to Swindon has seen Lyle face more shots, so far this year, the second period was no different! The Phoenix were getting plenty of rubber on Lyle but nothing too testing. A netminder of his quality will eat up shots from the perimeter all day. While Swindon could not keep the Phoenix out all the time, the home side were not picking up on the re-bounds either.The Phoenix needed to get Lyle moving, which is what they did for their first goal. The Phoenix scored the only goal of the period at the midway point. Some slick passing had the Wildcats losing structure in their zone and Archer was found at the hash marks and he found the smallest of gaps between Lyle's legs. Game now tied up and back to square one. The home crowd expected now, the home side had the quality to score goals, they just had to prevent turnovers giving the Wildcats fast breakout chances.
Third Period: The final period matched much of the second. Phoenix with chances on Lyle while trying to limit Swindon breaking up ice. The Wildcats are a good team but, perhaps, rely on Hoog too much now. Their main threat comes from that top line. They can rely on Lyle to a certain extent too, the Bison did, but the Cats are not as well organised as the Bison and, as a result, allow more chances than the Bison. There was only one goal in the third period, it came for the home side, once again mid way through the period. At 51min 49sec Frantisek Bakrlik put the home side ahead for the first time with a well taken goal. With the clock counting down, Lyle looked to the bench for the extra skater but, the Wildcats just couldn't get control in the Phoenix zone until the final few seconds. The clock ran down, the whistle went and the home side won.
Verdict: While the early goals were a concern, I was not worried at all. Yes 2-0 after 91 seconds is bad but, that left 58min 29sec for the Phoenix to find three goals. With the quality we have, that was entirely possible. Stevie Lyle is still top drawer but, he needs a good team in front to be a brick wall. Swindon just are not that team, Lyle faced a season high of 60 shots in the game. With that many shots, the odds are the other team will score. The only thing I'd have like to see the Phoenix do more, would be to get Lyle moving post to post more. He is great facing head on shots but, get him travelling and that's where chances come from!
Attendance: Saturday nights never produce the biggest crowds at the Ice Dome and, this was no exception. I would say 800 in the Ice Dome.
Phoenix 3 Swindon 2 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix then travelled down to Guildford sunday for a top of the table clash with the Flames. The game was tight until the first half of the final period where the Flames scored 3 unanswered to take hold. Despite a late consolation, the Phoenix would head north pointless.
Guildford 4 Phoenix 2 - Phoenix Article
Guildford 4 Phoenix 2 - MEN Article
Guildford 4 Phoenix 2 - Flames Article
One final link for you all, the second ever Angry Budgie Podcast is available for your listening pleasure.....or not! Haha!
Sunday, 3 March 2013
Phoenix v Swindon Wildcats 24th February Game Review
Coming off a loss to Guildford the previous weekend but, with a much improved form the Phoenix went into this weekend with a point to prove. A tough away game to Slough kicked off the weekend before a home tie against the Swindon Wildcats. The away game in Slough couldnt have gone any better, with the Phoenix third choice keeper in goal, the team worked hard and produced a superb 6-2 victory.
That set up the home game versus Swindon, a big crowd came to the Ice Dome, the Phoenix had a chance for their first four point weekend in ages.
First Period: Swindon have a very talented top line, beyond that away from their home ice they do not offer much to hurt EPL teams. That being said, that top line is something else! Nell and Hoog must have nearly 200 pts combined, an awesome pairing! The game began brightly, Jasz,.....not even going to attempt that one! Mr Smith, in goal for the Phoenix! The Phoenix looked to have snapped back into gear and were creating many chances only to find Murdy in top form. Chances came and went, the home faithful had to wait until the 15th minute to see the fist goal. 15min 20sec Mr Hand himself came in, approached the hashmarks, and unleashed a gorgeous shot to the top corner. One period, one goal and a lead for the Phoenix!
Second Period: The goals began to flow in the second period as the game began to open up. The Phoenix extended their lead on 25min 23sec when Psurny scored on the powerplay. This area of the Phoenix play has really improved over the past few weeks, mind you, that wasn't hard to do! Swindon got their mojo going and reduced the deficit two minutes later when Swindlehurst scored at 27min 52sec. Phoenix came right back when Neil scored after his shot was deflected past Murdy by a Swindon defenceman. The last goal of a frenetic second period came at 34min 52sec when Nell scored to make it 3-2 Phoenix.
Third Period: Scores at 3-2 with 20 to go. This would be an entertaining finish to the game! Swindon made things interesting at 44min 57sec when 10 scored on the powerplay, to make it even. The game carried on with some great play from both sides. The Phoenix took the lead once again at 52min 18sec when Flaten scored. As the game wore down the Wildcats looked more and more desperate for the late equiliser. They surprised many when Swindon, with 3 minutes let in the game, decided to pull Murdy for the extra skater. As the game passed the two minutes left mark the puck broke for the Phoenix and Flaten found Psurny skating through the Swindon zone to easily score the Phoenix 5th of the night.
Verdict: Another good effort for the Phoenix who have well and truly shrugged off their poor form of late and exploded with a great four point weekend. Swindon are dangerous but really lack the depth of scoring to make a push for the top of the EPL. Andrew Jaszz...Mr Smith performed admirably in goal and really didnt look like a fish out of water. His performances over the weekend, gave El-Hage a good weekend off and, reminded him, that his place as the Phoenix backup is no longer certain!
Attendance: A great crowd for a sunday night, i'll guess at 1,200.
Phoenix 6 Swindon 3 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 6 Swindon 3 - Swindon Article
Phoenix 6 Swindon 3 - Cheshire Today
That set up the home game versus Swindon, a big crowd came to the Ice Dome, the Phoenix had a chance for their first four point weekend in ages.
First Period: Swindon have a very talented top line, beyond that away from their home ice they do not offer much to hurt EPL teams. That being said, that top line is something else! Nell and Hoog must have nearly 200 pts combined, an awesome pairing! The game began brightly, Jasz,.....not even going to attempt that one! Mr Smith, in goal for the Phoenix! The Phoenix looked to have snapped back into gear and were creating many chances only to find Murdy in top form. Chances came and went, the home faithful had to wait until the 15th minute to see the fist goal. 15min 20sec Mr Hand himself came in, approached the hashmarks, and unleashed a gorgeous shot to the top corner. One period, one goal and a lead for the Phoenix!
Second Period: The goals began to flow in the second period as the game began to open up. The Phoenix extended their lead on 25min 23sec when Psurny scored on the powerplay. This area of the Phoenix play has really improved over the past few weeks, mind you, that wasn't hard to do! Swindon got their mojo going and reduced the deficit two minutes later when Swindlehurst scored at 27min 52sec. Phoenix came right back when Neil scored after his shot was deflected past Murdy by a Swindon defenceman. The last goal of a frenetic second period came at 34min 52sec when Nell scored to make it 3-2 Phoenix.
Third Period: Scores at 3-2 with 20 to go. This would be an entertaining finish to the game! Swindon made things interesting at 44min 57sec when 10 scored on the powerplay, to make it even. The game carried on with some great play from both sides. The Phoenix took the lead once again at 52min 18sec when Flaten scored. As the game wore down the Wildcats looked more and more desperate for the late equiliser. They surprised many when Swindon, with 3 minutes let in the game, decided to pull Murdy for the extra skater. As the game passed the two minutes left mark the puck broke for the Phoenix and Flaten found Psurny skating through the Swindon zone to easily score the Phoenix 5th of the night.
Verdict: Another good effort for the Phoenix who have well and truly shrugged off their poor form of late and exploded with a great four point weekend. Swindon are dangerous but really lack the depth of scoring to make a push for the top of the EPL. Andrew Jaszz...Mr Smith performed admirably in goal and really didnt look like a fish out of water. His performances over the weekend, gave El-Hage a good weekend off and, reminded him, that his place as the Phoenix backup is no longer certain!
Attendance: A great crowd for a sunday night, i'll guess at 1,200.
Phoenix 6 Swindon 3 - Phoenix Article
Phoenix 6 Swindon 3 - Swindon Article
Phoenix 6 Swindon 3 - Cheshire Today
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