An injury-stricken Manchester Phoenix experienced mixed fortunes in the second weekend of the English Premier League as they took two unlikely points.
It was a tough weekend for Phoenix, who were hit by injuries to key players, with forward Stan Gron and defender Ben Wood unable to start.
The Manchester side lost more players during their bruising 6-2 loss to Basingstoke Bisons on Saturday causing Sunday’s selection options to look dire.
The team turned to the Deeside Dragons, James Parsons and Simon Furnival, to make up the numbers as they faced Guildford Flames, who finished second in last year’s league.
Owner Neil Morris attributed Sunday’s 3-1 win to the help of their fellow Deeside residents.
“We lost four players during Saturday’s game so we struggled; we just didn’t have enough men on the ice. But credit to Basingstoke, they will be difficult to beat even on a good night.
“On Sunday we had regrouped. We soaked up a lot of pressure in the first period with the help of the Dragons boys which meant our forwards were able to really go for it in the second half and our goalkeeper was outstanding.”
Despite a great start to the season, Morris told MM the side might need some luck to get them through the season.
“Last year we were plagued with injuries and if things go the same way we might need lady luck on our side.
“Robin Kovar was a deserving man of the match because his work rate was great but the title could’ve gone to the whole team.
“Credit for the win also needs to go to the fans, they were brilliant. Everyone was on their feet towards the end and the atmosphere was fantastic. We’d also like to thank Red Hockey for supporting us.”
This weekend the Phoenix face Swindon Wildcats away on September, Saturday 26 and Sheffield Steeldogs on Sunday 27 at the Deeside Ice Rink.
Image courtesy of officialphoenix via YouTube, with thanks.