Phoenix torched early; fightback falls short against Flames

Manchester Phoenix 3-5 Guildford Flames

A third period barrage by Manchester Phoenix was not enough to earn any points against the league leaders Guildford Flames as they went down 5-3 on Saturday.

Phoenix, struggling to find consistency during an injury hit campaign, trailed the Flames 4-2 going into the final period and fired 17 shots at Mark Lee in the visitors net but could only find the net once.

Guildford opened the scoring in the 11th minute against the run through Branislav Kvetan and they doubled their lead as Nathan Rempel skated in all alone and beat Steve Fone in the Manchester net.

Man of the match Tom Duggan cut the lead in half before the first break as his angled shot slid under the pads of Lee but former Phoenix favourite Curtis Huppe restored the two goal cushion for visitors early in the second period.

Rick Plant extended their lead to 4-1 before Phoenix started their fight back with a Martin Cingel powerplay goal in the 33rd minute.

Ciaron Long netted Phoenix’s third early in the final period and Tony Hand’s side spent the next 20 minutes looking for an equalizer but Lee in the Flames net held firm and Jez Lundin scored an empty net goal with 20 seconds left to seal the points for the visitors.

Phoenix player coach Hand said: “The guys played extremely well tonight, it was a fantastic team performance. We were the better side for long periods and we were very unlucky not to take something from the game.”

Phoenix still searching for perfect weekend

Manchester Phoenix 3-4 Basingstoke Bison

Reigning champions Manchester Phoenix are falling away from the title chasing pack after another home defeat to Basingstoke.

Phoenix now lie eight points adrift of Guildford Flames and Slough Jets at the top of the English Premier League as they continue to search for a perfect four point weekend.

With player coach Tony Hand and winger Steven Wallace still sidelined through injury, Phoenix came away from Bracknell on Saturday with a 6-2 win but they couldn’t close out the Bison on Sunday after leading 2-0.

Slava Koulikov and Martin Cingel gave the home side the early lead, but Bison hit back before the break through Victor Kubenko.

Kubenko netted a breakaway goal early in the middle period before ex-Phoenix forward Joe Miller rounded netminder Steve Fone and scored for a 3-2 Bison lead.

Ladislav Harabin equalized for Phoenix before the second interval with a superb solo goal but Bison captain Nicky Chinn struck the winner mid way through the third period.

Phoenix coach Tony Hand said: “The guys are disappointed at the way things went tonight. We played well enough to get more out of the game.”

Jets second period blitz sinks Phoenix

Manchester Phoenix 3-5 Slough Jets

Four unanswered second period goals from Slough Jets cost Manchester Phoenix dearly as a late fight-back turned out to be too little too late.

Phoenix, buoyed by an impressive 5-1 win away at Basingstoke Bison on Saturday, were five goals behind on Sunday before they came to life in the final period but they left themselves too much to do.

Jets’ Adam Calder gave the visitors a 1-0 lead at the first break, but it was the second period blitz from the visitors that left Phoenix a mountain to climb.

Calder added his second before goals from Joe Greener, Doug Sheppard and Dan Davies saw the Jets out of sight in a horror middle period for home-side.

Tom Duggan finally got Phoenix on the board in the 45th minute on a five on three power-play before Jaroslav Spelda blasted in a second on the same advantage.

Slava Koulikov reduced the deficit further in the 49th minute but the comeback stopped there as Jets netminder Gregg Rockman stood firm with some stellar saves and the visitors deservedly took the points.

Phoenix player coach Tony Hand said: “If you turn up for twenty minutes out of sixty, you’ll get punished, and that is exactly what happened.

“We can be encouraged by the third period performance, and there are some positives to take into next weekend, but we were the architects of our own downfall tonight.”

Faith leads Phoenix without Hand

Manchester Phoenix 4-1 Peterborough Phantoms

Injury hit Manchester Phoenix put in a resilient performance against Peterborough Phantoms on Sunday night, and they were rewarded with a 4-1 win.

With player coach Tony Hand, winger Stephen Wallace and import defence man Jaroslav Spelda all out of action, Juraj Faith took charge with a pair of assists and helped Phoenix to a valuable two points.

Phoenix, who lost 3-1 in Peterborough the previous night, took an early lead with a scrappy James Archer goal in the 5th minute and never looked back.

Slava Koulikov doubled the home sides lead in the 17th minute after good work from Faith and Martin Cingel sliced open the Phantoms defence.

Cingel made it 3-0 early in the second period after Faith broke free of the Phantoms defence to set up an odd man breakaway to leave the sniper with the easiest of finishes.

Tom Duggan added a fourth before Luke Ferrara scored a late consolation for the visitors breaking netminder Steve Fone’s shut-out hopes.

Hand said after the game: “That was a vital win for us. The guys played well, kept things tight and we stuck to our game.

“It’s been tough the last few weeks with injuries, but hopefully the light is at the end of the tunnel.”

Phoenix offence finally ignites at the Dome

Manchester Phoenix 1-4 Sheffield Steeldogs
Manchester Phoenix 9-5 Telford Tigers

Sniper Martin Cingel fired in a hat-trick to lead Manchester Phoenix to a convincing win over Telford Tigers on Saturday night.

Phoenix, who have suffered at home recently, have already been beaten by the Tigers this season in a penalty shoot-out but they looked to have finally found their scoring touch at home whilst wearing special Children in Need jerseys.

Further goals from Ladislav Harabin (2), James Archer, Ben Wood, Ciaran Long and Tom Duggan helped Phoenix on their way to their first home win in three games.

Player-coach Tony Hand said “It was a good performance by the team tonight and nice to see a lot of the lads get among the goals.

“Telford are a hard working side but I felt we definitely had the upper hand tonight and deserved the points.”

If was a different story on Thursday night however when they went down 4-1 against Sheffield with ex-Phoenix centre Greg Wood coming back to haunt his old team with a pair of goals.

Phoenix failed to capitalise on multiple chances whilst Sheffield were clinical when they needed to be in a game that highlighted again the reigning champions’ inability to find consistency.

Ladislav Harabin netted Phoenix’s only goal of the game on a 5 on 3 power-play late in the second period but pairs of goals from Wood and Janis Ozolins was enough to see the Yorkshire side take their first ever win over Phoenix.

Philadelphia Flyers 2011/12 Opening Video

Bison shut down Phoenix

Manchester Phoenix 0-3 Basingstoke Bison

Manchester Phoenix were forced to settle for another split weekend as Basingstoke Bison shut down Tony Hand’s side on Sunday night.

Phoenix, who beat Basingstoke 5-2 on Saturday in Hampshire, simply had no answer to Basingstoke’s strong defending and created very little clear cut chances in a dire encounter.

Currently without both import defencemen Ladislav Harabin and Jaroslav Spelda to injuries, Phoenix have brought in Brit blue-liner John Connolly as cover, but it was the lack of fire power that cost the reigning champions the points.

Hand said: “Two points for the weekend are better than nothing, but I know it was disappointing to come away empty handed from a home game.”

Bison took the lead during a power-play for the home side, ex-Phoenix player Joe Miller tapping in from close range after a shorthanded breakaway in the 11th minute.

Phoenix lost defenceman Ryan Johnson to a match penalty late in the second period which added to the defensive problems but the Bison did not capitalize again until the first minute of the final period.

Basingstoke player coach Steve Moria scored on the power-play before Viktor Kubenko netted the visitors’ second shorthanded tally of the night as he punished an ineffective Phoenix power-play in the 52nd minute.

Hand added: “The guys have given everything, but we are missing Jaroslav Spelda and Ladzi Harabin, and they are a major presence on the ice.

“Injuries are part of the deal. We’ll just have to ride it out and do our best until we are back at full strength.”

Phoenix fend off Bees; Record first win in 4

Manchester Phoenix 5-3 Bracknell Bees

After losing their third consecutive game on Saturday, Manchester Phoenix bounced back with a hard fought 5-3 against Bracknell on Sunday.

Phoenix lost 4-2 away at Swindon Wildcats continuing their up and down start to the new English Premier League season which has been hampered by early injuries.

But Tony Hand’s side gained an important two points on Sunday, fending off a Bracknell fight-back whilst restoring some confidence after only picking up two points from their previous three games.

Hand said after the win, “We needed that. We have been plagued by injuries in recent weeks, and our confidence has taken a knock.”

“It was a hard-fought win, but we knew it would be. Hopefully this can kick-start our season and we can build on it next week.”

Juraj Faith gave the home side the lead with their first shot of the game in the 2nd minute whilst Stephen Wallace and Slava Koulikov also found the Bracknell net before the first break with Shaun Thompson replying for the visitors.

Faith completed his brace early in the second period before a penalty against Phoenix captain Luke Boothroyd sparked a Bracknell fight back. First Peter Jasik netted on the powerplay before Lukas Smital reduced the deficit further.

But in the final period centre Tom Duggan neatly finished off a move with Ciaran Long and restored Phoenix’s two goal lead to seal the points.

Phoenix shot down by Jets in OT

Manchester Phoenix 3-4 Slough Jets (After Overtime)

Reigning league champions Manchester Phoenix fell to their first home defeat of the season on Sunday when Slough forward Dan Davies netted the game winner in overtime.

Phoenix, without the injured James Archer and Josh Ward, looked the better side after ten minutes, with James Neil scoring on a delayed penalty call and Juraj Faith doubling their lead in the 12th minute.

But Slough hit back with two goals in a minute before the first break and from that point forward always looked the better side, Darius Pliskauskas netting his first of the night followed quickly by Ryan Watt.

The Slough defence kept the Phoenix forwards at bay as the home side struggled to create clear cut chances, and when did find a way through, Jets netminder Gregg Rockman was in the way.

The visitors deservedly took the lead in the 44th minute through Pliskauskas but Phoenix equalized whilst killing off a penalty of their own, Martin Cingel and Slava Koulikov combining to tie the game at 3-3.

But Tony Hand’s men ran into late penalty trouble and with Faith in the penalty box going into overtime, Davies scored the game winner to seal the extra point.

Hand said after the game, “Sometimes you just don’t get the bounces. We out shot the Jets and hit the pipes a few times, but it just wasn’t our night.”

Fone Blanks Phantoms

Manchester Phoenix 5-0 Peterborough Phantoms

Manchester Phoenix netminder Steve Fone continued his impressive start to the new season with a shut out performance against Peterborough Phantoms on Saturday night.

Peterborough, who lost both their opening fixtures last weekend, battled hard for forty minutes on Saturday with a short bench, but Phoenix wore them down and hit three goals in the final period to seal the win.

Phoenix broke a scoreless tie in the 23rd minute when Martin Cingel found the net before Ladislav Harabin doubled their lead in the 34th minute with a slapshot that squeezed through Phantoms netminder Stephen Wall.

At the opposite end, Fone sparkled when Phoenix hit penalty trouble late in the second period, keeping the visitors off the scoreboard with some smart saves as the Phantoms looked to capitalize on the powerplay.

But after Phantoms lost key player Jeff Glowa to a game penalty and Rick Skene to injury after blocking a Jaroslav Spelda shot, their resistance was broken and the visitors, with only two lines of players, were running on empty.

Juraj Faith raced in on goal twice to score back to back breakaway goals, one shorthanded, and Spelda found the net in the final minute to seal the points.

HC Lokomotiv Yaroslavl Tribute Video

Cingel & Fone lead Phoenix past Cats

Manchester Phoenix 3-2 Swindon Wildcats

Slovakian sniper Martin Cingel scored twice in the second period and netminder Steve Fone held firm late on to lead Manchester Phoenix to a 3-2 win on Sunday.

Cingel, who scored twice last weekend in a 5-4 win over Basingstoke, continued his hot start to the new season by scoring twice in the second period to help Phoenix beat a stubborn Wildcats side.

Swindon suffocated the Phoenix offence for the majority of the game, and when the home side did get a chance, Wildcats netminder Thomas Murdy was in the way most of the night.

Phoenix scored three times in the second period through Cingel and defenceman Jaroslav Spelda and appeared to have unlocked the Wildcats game-plan, but a much improved Swindon side came back strong with Lee Richardson and Jarislav Cesky scoring either side of the break to set up a tense finish.

But man of the match Fone prevented Swindon from tying the game with a string of fine saves in the Manchester net, allowing Phoenix to bounce back from a 5-2 defeat in Milton Keynes the night before.

Phoenix player coach Tony Hand said: “We needed that win. It was important to get straight back to winning ways after the defeat at Milton Keynes on Saturday.

“Swindon are a tricky side to break down, but we knew that if we were patient and stuck to our game, the chances would come.”

Phoenix ready to start title defence

Manchester Phoenix 4-1 Sheffield Steeldogs (Phoenix win 8-5 agg)

Tony Hand’s Manchester Phoenix are ready to begin the defence of their English Premier League crown after retaining the War of the Roses pre-season trophy.

Phoenix, who begin their quest for back to back league titles this weekend, drew 4-4 in Sheffield on Saturday after only a couple of training sessions midweek, before beating an improved Steeldogs side 4-1 on Sunday.

New signings Slava Koulikov, Martin Cingel, Juraj Faith and Jaroslav Spelda all found the scoresheet over the weekend as the players began to find their feet ahead of the opening league fixtures this week.

After a goal-less opening period on Sunday, Slava Koulikov broke the tie with his second of the weekend in the 25th minute before powerplay goals from Juraj Faith and Stephen Wallace saw Phoenix lead 3-0 at the second break.

Sheffield pulled a goal back through Chris Sykes in the 47th minute but Jaroslav Spelda hit the empty net with little over a minute remaining to seal the win.

Phoenix are back in action at Altrincham Ice Dome on Sunday against Basingstoke Bison after travelling to Slough Jets on Saturday for their league opening game.

Flyers 2011/12 NHL.com Preview

Phoenix have Faith in Juraj

Manchester Phoenix player coach Tony Hand has made a habit of waiting out the summer to pick up quality players at the last minute and this year is no different.

Former Phoenix favourites Johan Molin, Joe Tallari, David Beauregard and Marcus Kristoffersson have all been late summer arrivals, now forward Juraj Faith can be added to the list.

The 35 year old Slovakian born forward comes to Altrincham with a wealth of experience in the Slovakian Extraliga playing for hometown team HC Kosice where he won a league title in 2008.

He has also iced for Freiburg in the German DEL and Mulhouse in the French Ligue Magnus to complete an impressive career in Europe.

Hand said: “I am delighted to have him on board. His pedigree speaks for itself. He comes very highly recommended and having been a captain of a championship winning team, and on-ice leader, can only benefit the whole squad.

“I am he sure will play a big part in our efforts to retain the championship.”
Hand now has to find an import defenceman and a back-up netminder to complete his squad for the new season after James Neil re-signed for a third term in Altrincham last week.

Phoenix begin their title defense in Slough on September 24 before hosting Basingstoke Bison the following night at the Ice Dome.

Phoenix bring back Johnson; Retain Wood.

Head coach Tony Hand has added two more players to his title defending Manchester Phoenix this week as his squad nears completion.

Last seasons ‘Utility player of the year’ Ben Wood is returning to the team for a third year whilst Hand has also captured the versatile Ryan Johnson from Sheffield Steeldogs.

Wood, 23, was part of the Championship winning team last season and whilst his points production was small, his ability to play as both a forward and defenceman makes him a key signing for the team.

Hand said: “Ben is a great lad who works his socks off in training and on game night. I am looking for him to step up a gear next year and increase his points total. I am very pleased to have him back in the squad for the new season.”

Johnson returns to Altrincham after a season in his home town Sheffield. He was part of the first Phoenix side that competed in the English Premier League two seasons ago and, like Wood, can play in two positions.

Hand said: “It is good to have Ryan back at the club. He is versatile and can contribute both on defence and in attack.

“He is working hard on his fitness and will have a utility role with the team. Ryan is good in the locker room and also knows the league inside out.”

Meanwhile Johnson admits that he is eager to taste success with Phoenix after watching them lift the league trophy last season.

He said: “It was great to see Phoenix win the title last year and I am itching to get my hands on one of these medals. I will be doing my best to help in the defence of the championship.”

Off Topic: Jeter hits 3000

CBC Stanley Cup Playoffs 2011 Video

Music: U2 - One

History Only Needs 11 Seconds

Phoenix duo back on the blue line

Manchester Phoenix captain Luke Boothroyd and defensive partner Ladislav Harabin have re-signed with the EPL champions for another year.

The pair were essential parts to Phoenix’s title winning success last year and player coach Tony Hand has moved quickly to keep them at the club.

Boothroyd is returning for his fourth season with the club and Hand said: “Luke is reliable and dependable every night, and has provided a cool presence both on and off the ice for the 3 years he has been with the team.”

Harabin’s first term with the Phoenix was a successful one even if it was hampered with injuries, the Slovak had a knee injury and a horrific wrist injury putting his career in jeopardy.

But Harabin still managed to produce 33 points from 45 games whilst also earning a spot on the EPL All-star team.

Hand said: “Ladzi was the best defender in the league last year and, despite other teams chasing his signature, he always said he wanted to return to Phoenix.

“It is a great signing for the club and, hopefully, he can avoid those nasty injuries next term.”

The two defenders join new centre Slava Koulikov and returnee Tom Duggan on the roster for next season, however Hand now needs to find two new wingers for his top line.

Forward Curtis Huppe has joined playoff champions Guildford Flames whilst his line-mate from last season Marcus Kristoffersson looks set to join a team in Europe.

Phoenix lock down their drawmen for title defence.

Player coach Tony Hand has begun re-tooling his championship winning Manchester Phoenix this week by securing two centres for the 2011/12 campaign.

Forward Slava Koulikov has agreed terms with the Altrincham club and will replace the departing second line centre Greg Wood, who has signed for his hometown Sheffield Steeldogs with ex-Phoenix defencemen Ben Morgan and Pavel Gomeniuk.

The 32 year old Russion born star joins Phoenix from Slough Jets but qualifies as a British player as he has a UK passport after spending the last 15 years playing ice hockey in this country.

Last season, Koulikov produced 81 points in 52 games and helped the Jets win the EPL cup, whilst he has also played for Basingstoke Bison and Hull Stingrays in the Elite League.

Tony Hand told the clubs website: “Slava is a great signing for us. It is not often a player of Slava's quality comes on the market.

“We also have the added bonus of him being British qualified. This makes quite a difference as I look to form the lines for next season.”

Meanwhile third line centre Tom Duggan has re-signed with the club after making a big impact in his first season.

Duggan, 20, chipped in with 30 points last season, helping Phoenix win their first league title and Hand was eager to keep him at the club.

Hand said: “Tom was my choice as coach's player of the year. His effort was outstanding all season.

“Tom never gives any less than 100% every shift. He is still a young lad and will no doubt make an even more significant contribution next season.”

Phoenix playoff run ended in OT by Lightning.

Quarter final:
Manchester Phoenix 4-2 Sheffield Steeldogs (Agg 10-4)
Semi final:
Manchester Phoenix 2-3 Milton Keynes Lightning (OT)

After winning the English Premier League title last week, Manchester Phoenix will be looking for more silverware this weekend at the Playoff Finals.

Phoenix beat rivals Sheffield Steeldogs convincingly over two legs last weekend in the playoff quarterfinals and now face Milton Keynes Lightning in the semi-final on Saturday.

Tony Hand’s side left Yorkshire on Saturday with a 6-2 win and the league champions sealed their Coventry berth with a comfortable 4-2 win in Altrincham the following night.

In their final home game of the season, Phoenix took an early two goal lead thanks to strikes from Hand and James Archer giving the home side a six goal cushion on aggregate.

Hand, feeling his side had done enough, didn’t ice for the remainder of the game, resting up for the weekend ahead.

Similarly Marcus Kristoffersson took the opportunity to watch from the stands after a goalless second period, which also saw back up netminder Adam Summerfield replace Steve Fone in the Manchester net.

Sheffield pulled a goal back in the 42nd minute through Chris Sykes, but Curtis Huppe and Stephen Wallace increased the lead to 4-1 before ex-Phoenix defenceman Ryan Johnson netted a late consolation.

The other semi-final will be between Guildford and Peterborough with the Playoff Final taking place on Sunday at the Coventry Sky Dome.

On Saturday, Tony Hand’s Manchester Phoenix went down fighting as a late comeback was not enough to beat Milton Keynes Lightning.

With Phoenix seemingly dead and buried losing 2-0 in their playoff semi final match, the EPL champions staged a remarkable fight back scoring twice in the final minute to send the game to overtime.

After a scoreless opening period at the season finale event in Coventry, it was the Lightning that broke the deadlock with a goal from Matt Towalski in the 31st minute.

That was quickly followed by a goal from Adam Brittle to give the Lightning a two goal lead going into the final period.

But with Phoenix looking like they would be shut-out by a hard working Lightning defence, Pavel Gomeniuk struck on the powerplay in the 59th minute and then player coach Hand netted seconds later to send the travelling fans into a frenzy.

However after pulling the game level, Leigh Jamieson destroyed any hopes of Phoenix progressing to the final when he struck the winner for the Lightning with 19 seconds of overtime remaining.

The final on Sunday was won by Guildford Flames as they ran out 5-3 winners over the Lightning with a Martin Masa penalty shot goal in the third period being the game winner.

Phoenix are EPL Champions 2010/11

Manchester Phoenix 5-2 Swindon Wildcats

Tony Hand’s Manchester Phoenix finally sealed their first ever piece of silverware on Sunday night as they beat Swindon Wildcats.

A packed Altrincham Ice Dome saw Phoenix claim the English Premier League title after switching from the Elite League two seasons ago, but it wasn’t without a dramatic final league match.

Phoenix, who missed a chance to seal the title on Saturday after losing 6-2 at Peterborough Phantoms, took a two goal lead with goals from Pavel Gomeniuk and James Archer.

But just as Phoenix appeared to be cruising to the finish line, player coach Hand was thrown out of the game with a high-sticking penalty leaving Phoenix to play the match out without their leader.

Swindon netted on the resulting power play through Egidijus Bauba leaving the home side with a one goal lead at the break.

The second period finished goalless with the Wildcats keeping Phoenix at bay whilst threatening to ruin the night for the home side.

But like so many times this season, Phoenix came through, two quick third period goals from Stephen Wallace and James Archer with his second of the night saw the champions flying.

Swindon responded with a second goal from James Knight but the Phoenix defence stood firm and Curtis Huppe fired in an empty net goal in the final minute to cue celebrations both on the ice and off it as Phoenix clinched the title.

Flyers comeback against Bruins - History Will Be Made 2011

Phoenix title down to the wire as Jets fly by.

Manchester Phoenix 4-6 Slough Jets

Tony Hand’s Manchester Phoenix will have to wait until the final weekend of the regular season to lift the EPL title after losing 6-4 to Slough Jets on Thursday.

Phoenix, who bounced back with a 6-5 win against Milton Keynes Lightning on Saturday, need one point from their remaining two games against Peterborough and Swindon.

On Thursday, Phoenix went down against Slough at the Altrincham Ice Dome in a tight game that was only decided in the final minute as the Jets struck an empty net goal.

Goals from Ben Morgan and Tony Hand were countered by strikes by Darius Pliskauskas and Nicky Watt leaving the teams even at the first break.

Morgan again gave Phoenix the lead in the middle session but a mix up between netminder Steve Fone and Pavel Gomeniuk left Shaun Thompson to score shorthanded for the visitors.

Curtis Huppe restored the home sides lead going into the final period but the Jets came out flying in the third period scoring twice through Adam Calder and Pliskauskas before sealing the win with an empty net strike as Phoenix pushed forward.

Player coach Hand said: “We lost concentration at times, and we were punished. We played some great hockey and so did the Jets, but this is a wakeup call to everyone that there is still everything to play for, and we cannot lose focus at this stage of the campaign.”

Phoenix travel to Peterborough on Saturday, where a win would seal the league title before entertaining Swindon Wildcats at home on Sunday in the final regular season game.

Kristoffersson avenges cup defeat with four goals in Bison win

Manchester Phoenix 5-2 Basingstoke Bison

Super Swede Marcus Kristoffersson scored four times on Sunday against Basingstoke Bison, avenging their recent cup exit whilst strengthening Phoenix’s grasp on the league title.

Phoenix now only need three points to win their first piece of major silverware since they were born out of the ashes of Manchester Storm in 2003.

Bison, who eliminated Phoenix in the EPL Cup semi final only a couple of weeks ago, took the lead in the first period with a goal from Callum Best in the 11th minute.

But Phoenix came back strong in the middle session scoring four times.

First Kristoffersson levelled the game in the 25th minute with a crash-the-net tap in before blasting a slap shot past Bison netminder Dean Skinns to take the lead.

Curtis Huppe added a third before the Bison replied short-handed thanks to Ciaron Long, tapping in a rebound past a beaten Steve Fone after his original effort hit the post.

However during the same powerplay, Kristoffersson restored Phoenix’s two goal cushion and the Swede struck again with an empty net goal in the final minute.

Phoenix player coach Tony Hand said: “That was a huge two points for us. Bison have given us problems all season, and to get two points at this stage was vital.

“We know what we need to do. No-one is counting any chickens – I won’t allow that – but confidence in the locker room is high. We’ll take each game as it comes.”

Phoenix poised for fiery playoff encounter with Sheffield

Sheffield Steeldogs 2-5 Manchester Phoenix

Enforcer Andrew Sharp showed his metal on Sunday night in what could have been a dress rehearsal for Manchester Phoenix’s first round playoff match up.

Sharp dropped the gloves three times with ex-Phoenix hard-man and Sheffield player coach Andre Payette in a fiery encounter.

Phoenix, currently needing seven points to clinch the league title, look likely to play their Yorkshire rivals in the quarterfinals of the playoffs and both teams fired warnings on Sunday.

Sheffield took a 2-0 lead with goals from Lloyd Gibson and Janis Ozolins, but Phoenix, like so many times this season, rose to the challenge.

The champions elect scored five unanswered goals across two periods from Curtis Huppe (2), Tony Hand, Ben Morgan and an empty net goal from Stephen Wallace to seal another important two points.

However with Phoenix needing overtime to beat Sheffield at the Altrincham Ice Dome on their last visit, player coach Tony Hand must be warning his players of the task that awaits them once the playoffs begin in April.

Phoenix continue their march for the title this weekend with an away game at Swindon Wildcats before entertaining Basingstoke Bison on Sunday in Altrincham.

Phoenix close in on first league title.

Manchester Phoenix 6-3 Telford Tigers

Tony Hand’s Manchester Phoenix are one step closer to securing their first league title in their history after back to back wins against bottom club Telford Tigers.

Phoenix secured a four point weekend with a close fought 4-2 win in Telford on Saturday before beating the same side 6-3 in Altrincham on Sunday.

It took until the final two minutes on Saturday for Phoenix to beat a resolute Tigers who pushed the champions elect all the way. Marcus Kristoffersson netted twice in the closing stages to seal the win but it was a different story on Sunday as Phoenix raced into a five goal lead.

Tigers netminder Martin Clarkson produced some early sparkling saves to deny the Phoenix forwards but goals from Kristoffesson, short handed and on the power play, gave Phoenix a 2-0 lead at the break.

Further goals from Stephen Wallace, Greg Wood and Huppe pushed the home side into a 5-0 lead and cruising to another two points.

At this point Phoenix netminder Steve Fone was replaced by Adam Summerfield to get some rare ice time, but the Congelton born shot stopper was beaten three times quickly as the Phoenix defence went to sleep with Tigers’ Daniel Mackriel (2) and Jack Watkins pulling the visitors back into the match.

However, with Fone back in the net for the final period, Kristoffesson netted his fifth of the weekend with a power play goal to kill the Tigers comeback attempt.

Phoenix now need nine points to clinch the EPL title with Tony Hand’s side holding an eight point lead over second place Guildford Flames.

Player coach Hand said: “I knew we had a tough, tough period coming from the end of January. There have been a lot of high-pressure games, one after another, and it’s taken its toll. The guys are understandably tired.

“But we’re through it and we’re still top. We can have a good rest now, with no game until next Sunday at Sheffield, when we can come back refreshed and focused on the final run-in.”

Sidney Crosby meets Bobby Clarke

Huppe helps Phoenix put cup exit behind them

Manchester Phoenix 6-5 Peterborough Phantoms (After Overtime)

Canadian sniper Curtis Huppe scored five times against Peterborough Phantoms on Sunday, leading Manchester Phoenix to a 6-5 win in overtime.

The unstoppable Phoenix top line of player coach Tony Hand, Swede Marcus Kristoffersson and Huppe combined for 17 points and the home side put their cup exit on Thursday behind them.

After six games in nine nights, Phoenix could have been forgiven if they had lost to a spirited Phantoms side, but the home side fought back after going behind twice whilst also surrendering a two goal lead themselves.

Maris Ziedins opened the scoring for the visitors in the 7th minute and Phoenix’s James Archer struck the post shorthanded before Huppe netted twice before the break.

Huppe and Phantoms’ Matt Davies traded goals in the second period and Tom Carlon scored shorthanded to tie the score at 3-3. The Phoenix top line clicked again in the 35th minute with Huppe scoring his fourth but again the Phantoms levelled through Jeff Glowa.

Phantoms’ Darius Lelenas and Huppe, again, traded goals in the third period sending the game to overtime. Phoenix capitalized on a 5 on 3 power-play to win the match in the extra period when Kristoffersson deflected a Huppe shot past Phantoms’ Stephen Wall.

On Thursday night, Phoenix crashed out of the EPL Cup after losing 6-4 (8-7 agg) to Basingstoke Bison in the semi final.

After coming away from Basingstoke with a 3-2 first leg lead on Tuesday night, hopes were high that Phoenix would progress to the final against either Slough or Guildford.

But Victor Kubenko erased the deficit early before Callum Best gave the visitors the lead on aggregate and they never looked back. Curtis Huppe, Stephen Wallace, Joe Miller and Tony Hand scored for Phoenix whilst Ondrej Lauko (2), Mindaugas Kieras, Ollie Bronnimann netted for Bison to see them reach the Final and knock Phoenix out.

Phoenix are away at Peterborough on Wednesday 23 Feb before a Saturday/Sunday double header against bottom club Telford Tigers.

Phoenix hold off Lightning fight back

Manchester Phoenix 5-4 Milton Keynes Lightning

Netminder Steve Fone kept league leading Manchester Phoenix six points clear at the top of the English Premier League after a match winning performance between the pipes.

Rotherham born Fone dazzled, especially in the second period, to keep the Lightning at bay until a late surge in the final 15 minutes left the home side clinging on as their lead evaporated.

Goals from Tony Hand and Curtis Huppe gave Phoenix a 2-0 lead at the first break before Huppe and Marcus Kristoffersson added further goals in a second period that for the most part was played in the Phoenix zone as the Lightning laid siege to Steve Fone’s goal. But their efforts proved fruitless as Fone stood tall to keep the visitors score blank.

James Neil increased the home sides lead to 5-0 early in the final period before Milton Keynes seized upon Phoenix easing off the gas. The fight back began with ex-Slough Jets forward Blaz Emersic netting which was quickly followed by a power play goal from Monir Kalgoum.

Adam Carr then capitalized on some lazy Phoenix defending before scoring a penalty shot with four minutes remaining. However an exhausted Phoenix defence managed to keep the visitors from tying the game late and Tony Hand’s side held on for two more vital points.

Phoenix player coach Hand said: “That was tough tonight. Some of the guys were tired, and there were times when we let our concentration lapse and we were punished for it.

“We deserved to be in front, but credit to Milton Keynes, they never gave up and it was a lot closer than it could have been.

Phoenix breeze past Bees

Manchester Phoenix 6-1 Bracknell Bees

Man of the match Tom Duggan produced a superb hat-trick on Sunday night to lead top of the table Manchester Phoenix past Bracknell Bees.

Phoenix, who only played once this weekend, didn’t leave third gear and still dominated a Bracknell side chasing the final playoff spot.

By the end of the first period, the home side were 4-1 up, Curtis Huppe opened the scoring early which lead to further strikes from Stephen Wallace (2) and Duggan with only Michal Pinc replying for the visitors on the power play.

The game was killed off early in the second period as Duggan netted twice to complete his treble allowing Phoenix to preserve their energy for a busy week ahead.

The win meant Phoenix extended their lead at the top of the English Premier League to six points after title rivals Guildford suffered a 6-3 defeat at Peterborough Phantoms.

Tony Hand’s side now face a tough six matches in nine nights starting at Slough Jets on Saturday before hosting Milton Keynes Lightning on Sunday in Altrincham.

Then Phoenix turn their attention to the EPL Cup semi-final, travelling to Basingstoke on Tuesday, with the return leg against the Bison at the Ice Dome on Thursday. They finish the week with matches at Bracknell and home to Peterborough.

After the win against Bracknell, Tony Hand said: “I was really pleased with Tom Duggan. He has worked extremely hard recently, as has everyone, and he thoroughly deserved his man of the match award.

“The guys are getting some of that old confidence back, and that will be key for us as we go into the final part of the season.”

Red Bull Salzburg 2-1 EC KAC (AOT): Highlights

Miller's return boosts Phoenix past Jets

Manchester Phoenix 5-1 Slough Jets

New signing Joe Miller scored two goals and an assist last weekend as he helped Manchester Phoenix past Slough Jets and Basingstoke Bison.

Miller, who signed on Friday after being released by Peterborough Phantoms, last played for Phoenix in 2006 in the Elite League and returned to score in both Phoenix’s games at the weekend.

On Sunday, Phoenix produced a complete performance to knock off fourth place Slough after the visitors took the lead with only 22 seconds gone.

However the home side took full control of the match in the second period as a straight hat-trick from man of the match Marcus Kristoffersson set Phoenix on their way to another two points.

Joe Miller scored his second of the weekend and Phoenix’s fourth before the end of the second period leaving Curtis Huppe to round out the scoring on the power-play in the final period.

On Saturday, Phoenix beat their Cup semi final opponents Basingstoke Bison 5-4 in overtime after coming from behind four times. Tony Hand equalized for the visitors with little over a minute remaining before Tom Duggan sealed the win in the extra period. Other goals came from Miller, Hand and Ladislav Harabin.

Player coach Hand said: “I was very pleased with Joe Miller’s contribution this weekend. He got a couple of goals and assists, and he is already offering us new options, which keeps our play fresh.

“I said before this is all about character, and we showed plenty tonight. We were sent an early warning when Jets took the lead so soon, but we kept our composure, played our game and eventually took charge.”

Phoenix title mission back on track

Manchester Phoenix 6-4 Peterborough Phantoms

After three consecutive defeats Tony Hand’s Manchester Phoenix are back on track in their pursuit of the English Premier League title.

Phoenix came from behind three times to beat sixth place Peterborough and hold a four point lead over closest rivals Guildford after they failed to earn a point last weekend.

The teams traded first period power-play goals as ex-Hull Stingray forward Jeff Glowa netted in the sixth minute before Marcus Kristoffersson brought the hosts level before the break.

Glowa scored a short-handed goal in the second period to give the visitors the lead once more but again Kristoffersson pulled Phoenix level to leave everything to play for in the final period.

The Phantoms scored first in an end to end third period with Maris Ziedins netting first from distance before Phoenix stormed back with four straight goals to take control.

First, Stephen Wallace equalized for the home side before Tony Hand was gifted a short-handed marker in the 45th minute after Phantoms netminder Stephen Wall gave the puck away behind the net. Curtis Huppe broke in on goal to score Phoenix’s fifth with an expert finish before Tom Duggan added a sixth.

Shaun Yardley added a late consolation for the visitors but with the points safe and Guildford losing 5-3 against Slough Jets, Phoenix extended their lead at the top.

Medveščak Zagreb 5-2 Red Bull Salzburg: Highlights

Rempel burns Phoenix with 4 goal blitz

Manchester Phoenix 4-5 Guildford Flames

Guildford Flames hot-shot Nathan Rempel has blown the English Premier League title race wide open after scoring four times against Manchester Phoenix on Sunday.

Phoenix entered the weekend’s games against the Flames with a five point lead at the top of the standings, but after back to back defeats to their title rivals, the gap has closed to just two points.

Marcus Kristoffersson opened the scoring for the home side with an early goal set up by a superb pass from Ladislav Harabin. But Guildford stormed back with Rempel netting a straight hat-trick before the end of the period.

Tony Hand rallied his side in the interval and by the end of the second period, they were level, goals from Curtis Huppe and Pavel Gomenyuk the result of a dominating period, out-shooting the Flames 16-5.

However two further goals from the Flames in the final period left Phoenix a mountain to climb, first Rempel added his fouth before Matt Towe extended the visitors lead to 5-3. Huppe managed to pull Phoenix to within a goal on the power-play in the 59th minute, but it was too little too late.

The previous night, Phoenix left Guildford with a point after losing 2-1 in overtime, Flames Martin Masa and Phoenix’s Huppe traded third period goals before Lukas Smital scored the winner in the extra period.

Tony Hand said after the match on Sunday: “The guys gave everything but we paid for our errors tonight.
“But we are still two points clear at the top of the league and there is plenty of character in this side. We’ll bounce back.”

Mason Raymond Penalty Shot Goal vs Islanders: Canucks 4-3 Islanders (APS)

Philadelphia Flyers 5-2 Buffalo Sabres: Highlights

Red Bull Salzburg 4-1 Sapa Fehervar: Highlights

Phoenix outlast Steeldogs 3-2 in OT

Manchester Phoenix 3-2 Sheffield Steeldogs (After Over Time)

Manchester Phoenix were made to fight tooth and nail on Sunday night against rivals Sheffield, with an inspired Steeldogs netminder Ben Bowns leading the visitors into overtime against the league leaders.

The ‘War of the Roses’ clash was a bad tempered affair that saw Phoenix’s Andrew Sharp leave the game early with an ankle injury and Steeldogs’ defenceman Lloyd Gibson leave blood on the ice after a heavy collision with Tom Duggan before also leaving the match.

Stephen Wallace continued his goal-scoring form with a well taken wrap-around goal to give Phoenix the lead in the first period before Sheffield equalized early in the middle session through Edgar Bebris on the power-play.

Phoenix regained the lead through Marcus Kristoffersson in 44th minute but again the Steeldogs refused to let the home side get out of sight as Craig Elliot found the net in the 48th minute.

The closing minutes saw tempers rise further with Steeldogs’ Kris Jrundmanis receiving a match penalty for checking to the head of Ladislav Harabin, and Andre Payette gained 2+2+2 for slashing leaving the visitors shorthanded.

The resulting two-man power-play carried over into the overtime period and after a barrage of Phoenix shots, Sheffield netminder Bown’s defences were finally breached as Curtis Huppe deflected a Tony Hand shot into the net to seal the extra point.

Hand said after the match: “Tonight we showed character, and plenty of it. Sheffield came to stop us playing our hockey and snatch chances when they appeared. It was a testament to our guys that we stayed focused on our game and battled right to the end.”

Vienna Capitals 3-5 Red Bull Salzburg: Highlights

Phoenix extend lead at the top

Manchester Phoenix 5-2 Milton Keynes Lightning

Winger Stephen Wallace scored two goals and produced a man of the match performance on Sunday night leading Manchester Phoenix to a 5-2 win over the Milton Keynes Lightning.

Marcus Kristoffersson opened the scoring in the first period as his slap shot rang of the cross bar and in from a narrow angle before James Archer scored a rebound goal on the power-play for a two goal lead.

Lee Jamieson reduced the deficit with a power-play goal for the Lightning before the end of the first period but two quick goals early in the middle session put Phoenix in control.

Wallace netted the first of his double before Ben Morgan scored a bizarre goal that slipped through Lightning netminder Alex Mettam’s pads from distance.

Lightning closed the gap again with a strike from Andre Smulter after captain Luke Boothroyds stick broke leaving the Phoenix defence open. But Wallace ensured the home side would take a three goal lead into the second break.

The final period saw no further scoring and Phoenix have a three point lead at the top of the English Premier League.
Player coach Tony Hand said: “That was an excellent win for us, against one of the most difficult teams to play against in this league.
“We knew Milton Keynes would be strong and we were right, but we took the chances when they came, and we got two extremely lucky goals.”