Archer fires Phoenix past Cats

Manchester Phoenix 6-3 Swindon Wildcats

James Archer fired in a natural hat-trick on Sunday night to help Manchester Phoenix come from behind to beat Swindon.

Archer struck three straight goals in the second period after Ladislav Harabin netted a power-play goal to put Phoenix 4-1 up after going a goal down in the opening period.

Swindon cut the deficit to two goals when Aaron Nell scored in the 32nd minute but Ciaran Long restored the home sides three goal cushion going into the third period.

Both teams traded goals in the last twenty minutes with Swindon’s Paul Swindlehurst blasting a slap shot past Steve Fone in the Manchester net whilst Phoenix’s Stephen Wallace added a late power-play goal.

The win completed a four point weekend for Phoenix after they beat Milton Keynes Lightning 3-1 on Saturday.

Goals from Juraj Faith and Wallace (2) ensured Tony Hand’s side stay in second place in the English Premier League table, four points behind leaders Guildford.

Hand said: “That was an excellent win against a very hard-working team. We were dominating, but the chances weren’t going in until the second period, but when we found our rhythm we took charge.

“I’m delighted for James. He works hard every shift and doesn’t always get the praise he deserves, but it was great to see him grab a hat trick and take the plaudits in front of our own fans.”