NEXT HOME GAME: The Go Goodwins Manchester Storm face the Braehead Clan at the Storm Shelter in Altrincham, this Saturday 13th February (6:30pm face-off) in Elite League action. Tickets can be purchased online via the club website, www.manchesterstorm.com, or by calling the Box Office on Tel: 0161-926-8782.

Hi Storm Fans,

I am glad to say we accomplished our objective again this weekend, and gained another 4 points in our pursuit of a play off spot.

On Saturday, it was a hard fought, passionate effort from the guys. The first period, I truly thought it was great Storm hockey and arguably our most complete period of hockey all season. We were using our speed, being physical and playing with great emotion and passion. We struggled a bit in the second period but we stuck with it and persevered with a 2 goal lead going into the 3^rd. Zane had to make some great saves and we played some smart defensive hockey to close the game out. It was a great home win, and also a very important win at that with our play off push.

The crowd was loud and proud all game and gave us the extra boost throughout the whole 60 minutes. As I’ve said before, don’t underestimate the power all you guys have in spurring the team on throughout a game, we hear every drum beat and every chant, so let’s be even louder on Saturday at home vs Braehead!

In Edinburgh, it was one of the weirdest games of hockey I have ever been a part of in my professional career. We took a 4-1 lead when their starting goalie got an injury. Their backup goalie was put in a difficult position and we got a few early on him. In the 3^rd, we had an opportunity to put our back up net minder Steve Wilcock in between the pipes. He is one of the hardest working guys, and a person that is extremely passionate about the club. As a Coach, I love rewarding hard work. Mike and I thought it was a good opportunity to get Steve in and to reward him for all the hard work he has given to the club. He made some good saves but we did leave him out to dry a few times. All the boys were extremely happy to see Steve in there, and even happier we got the win.

I also have to add, the determination of many of the players that played hurt this weekend was awesome to see. As most people are aware, we don’t have the depth that many other teams have in this league, so when guys play through the pain barrier, it makes me extra proud and shows the character within those players. Guys were true warriors, and as I’ve said many many times, when we fully commit, we’re a tough team to beat. Now, we just can’t wait for this Saturday’s home game vs Braehead (18.30pm Face Off). Bring your friends, family and work colleagues along for the best show in town and get behind your Manchester Storm during operation #PlayoffPush!!  #BelieverFever