Coast to Coast

Block 12 Backcheck

2012-01-31T16:59:00.026Z

Played five, won three, drew one, lost one. Otherwise known as 'keep that up for the rest of the season and Blackburn Hawks will be in the play-offs' - which would be nice.

To be honest, January didn't start well. Losing to anyone isn't great. Losing to Telford is pretty lousy. Losing 11-3 is the stuff of nightmares. Thankfully the Hawks hadn't started the month as they meant to go on.

Home wins over Coventry, Billingham and Nottingham (strangely all 3-1) and a battling draw at Trafford, sees the Hawks in the final place-off position with games in hand on the teams just above them.

Factor in an excellent victory at Solway in the Cup and the month has been a productive one.

Beating leaders Billingham at home was one of a number of highlights. Despite claims from some Stars fans their team hadn't played as they can, the truth was they'd been out-performed, out-muscled and beaten by the better team on the night.

Numerous players have been in impressive form and it seems unfair to single just one out, but Tom King (above) deserves a special mention having become a vital cog in our attacking threat.

Another highlight was Chris Arnone's fight with Nottingham's Joe Wightman. As tough guys go Wightman is about as much a fighter as I am a marathon runner, and it showed as Arnone rang his bell for poking his nose in where it wasn't wanted. Fair play at sticking up for your team-mates Joe, bad choice of opponent though.

Being January we've had all the excitement of transfer deadline day without the big fees. Former favourites Dave Meikle and Peter Tapp have returned to the club, leaving the roster looking very impressive.

With Ollie Lomax hopefully back from injury during February, everything is in place to try and secure a top four slot, though with eight of the last eleven games away from home it won't be easy.

I can trot out endless cliches about hard work and grinding out results and they are crucial, but the team spirit which has shone through recently could well be the key factor in helping the Hawks grab a play-off slot.

Having said that - you can't help but think that Sami Narkia and Danny Brittle (below) have taken that spirit just a little too far.

(Narkia and Brittle image by kind permission of Jared Owen)

Ice Hockey - UK round-up (from Blackburn Hawks match programme 5/02/12)

2012-01-30T17:05:00.012Z

Telford Titans beat Billingham Stars 4-2 to move into third place in ENL1 North. Adam Taylor (2), Ryan Stanton and Dan Taylor scored the goals for Telford who have now won six in a row. Despite the defeat Billingham stay top after a 1-1 draw with Whitley Warriors and an 8-3 win over Solihull Barons. Warriors remain second after Dean Holland’s hat-trick helped them to an 8-6 win at Nottingham Lions. Blackburn Hawks are fourth after also beating the Lions 3-1 – Tom King scored two.

Trafford Metros’ play-off hopes suffered a double setback as they lost 5-4 at Solihull Barons and blew a 3-1 lead at home to the Hawks to draw 3-3 – Aaron Davies (above) grabbed the equaliser with just over a minute left. Coventry Blaze beat Nottingham 5-2 to leave Lions in the relegation play-off slot, while Sheffield Spartans eased their own relegation worries by beating Blaze 3-1.

PRESSURE

Solway Sharks made it 19 ENL2 wins on the spin by beating Lancashire Raptors, Flintshire Freeze and Fylde Flyers. Raptors were crushed 13-1 – Stevie Adams scored three – while Adam Reynolds (above) hit four in their 11-1 win at Flintshire. Reynolds and Nathan Salem both scored twice as Fylde Flyers were outclassed 11-3. Sutton Sting remain second after a 10-1 win over the Raptors. Hull Stingrays are just three points behind third placed Freeze after beating Fylde (7-6), Bradford Bulldogs (5-3) and Lancashire (8-3).

Romford Raiders are the new leaders of ENL1 South. Anthony Leone and Danny Marshall both scored two in a 9-2 win against Bristol Bulldogs, and top scorer Juraj Huska (below) was on target in their 5-2 win over title rivals Chelmsford Chieftains. Wightlink Raiders stay third after wins over Bracknell Hornets (4-2) and MK Thunder (10-2). Cardiff Devils beat Streatham Redskins 3-2 and Bracknell 7-4 to stay in the play-off hunt, but are under pressure from Invicta Dynamos who beat the Hornets 9-3 and Slough Jets 12-1.

BATTLE

Guildford Flames hold a four point lead in the EPL despite some mixed results. They lost 4-1 at Manchester Phoenix but won the reverse fixture 5-2. Rick Plant and Dave Longstaff both scored two in their 9-1 demolition of Telford though they had to settle for a point in a 5-4 shoot-out loss away to the Tigers. Slough Jets are up to second after beating Bracknell Bees (4-3) and Peterborough Phantoms (5-2), though they only took a point in a 5-4 shoot-out loss to Basingstoke Bison. Jets are level on points with Phoenix who beat Sheffield Steeldogs (3-0), but lost 4-3 after overtime at Bracknell.

Despite a 3-1 loss at Telford, Sheffield are now fourth after beating MK Lightning (2-0) and Swindon Wildcats (4-3 after a shoot-out & 4-2). Lightning beat Basingstoke 2-0 on the road, but two goals from Ollie Bronnimann (left) helped Bison to a 5-1 success in Milton Keynes. Steve Moria’s men have been in good form of late and they are just three points behind Lightning after a 5-3 win at Swindon Wildcats. Peterborough Phantoms won the basement battle against Telford 9-5 and followed up with a 3-2 shoot-out win over Bracknell.

WINNING

Belfast Giants’ lead is down to five points at the top of the Elite League. Title rivals Nottingham Panthers won 3-2 in Belfast and kept up the pressure by beating Fife Flyers (4-1) and Coventry Blaze (6-1 twice). Giants maintained their challenge with wins over Edinburgh Capitals (6-2), Braehead Clan (3-2 after a shoot-out) and Fife (3-0).

Sheffield Steelers are two points further back but have six games in hand on the top two. They beat Cardiff Devils 3-2 after overtime and followed up with a 4-3 shoot-out win at Dundee Stars. Steelers extended their winning run to nine with two victories against Edinburgh Capitals (4-2 & 6-3).

(Image Permissions: Adam Reynolds - David Morrison; Juraj Huska - John Scott; Ollie Bronnimann - Basingstoke Gazette)

Ice Hockey - UK round-up (from Blackburn Hawks match programme 22/01/12)

2012-01-16T16:34:00.010Z

Blackburn Hawks produced a power-packed display to beat ENL1 North leaders Billingham Stars 3-1. First period goals from Rick Hughes (above), Tom King and Jared Owen set Hawks on their way as they boosted their hopes of qualifying for the play-offs. Second placed Whitley Warriors took full advantage, winning 4-3 at Coventry Blaze and 7-3 at home to Solihull Barons, to narrow the gap to five points.

Telford Titans boosted their play-off hopes beating Sheffield Spartans 7-1 and Nottingham Lions 6-3 – Chris Jones bagged a hat-trick against the Lions. Trafford Metros blew a three goal lead at home to Solihull to draw 3-3, but clung on to fourth place with a 6-4 win at Sheffield.

CONTROL

ENL2 Promotion chasers Sutton Sting moved up to second place with a 4-2 win at Sheffield Senators. Fylde Flyers beat Bradford Bulldogs 6-4 – Andrew Clark and Wayne Whitby both scored two for Fylde.

Solway Sharks fell to just their second defeat of the season, losing 3-2 in the Northern Cup to Blackburn. Nathan Salem gave Sharks the lead before Jordan Bannon’s hat-trick put Hawks in control. Adam Reynolds pulled one back for Solway, but missed a penalty shot to tie the game and hand Hawks the win.

Chelmsford Chieftains moved to the top of ENL1 South with a 4-1 win at title rivals Romford Raiders – Danny Hammond scored twice. Both teams went into the game on the back of wins – Romford beating Bracknell Hornets 7-0, while Chelmsford beat Slough Jets 8-3. Cardiff Devils strengthened their play-off hopes with a 3-0 win at home to Invicta Dynamos. Wightlink Raiders had a mixed weekend – beating Streatham Redskins 6-2 but crashing 3-2 at Slough.

THRILLING

MK Lightning and Guildford Flames fought out a thrilling top of the table EPL clash, with the Flames edging the game 6-5 – Guildford’s Rick Plant (above) scored three. Flames failed to follow up as they lost 4-3 at home to Slough Jets. Lightning stay second but completed a miserable weekend by losing 6-3 at Manchester Phoenix – Tom Duggan scored two for Phoenix. Tony Hand’s team also beat Basingstoke Bison 5-0 with Ciaran Long scoring a couple. Darius Pliskaukas (5) and Adam Calder (3) led the scoring for Slough as they routed Telford Tigers 11-2.

Two goals from Janis Ozolins helped Sheffield Steeldogs to a 6-1 over Bracknell Bees, but they couldn’t follow up as they slumped to a 5-2 defeat at Peterborough Phantoms. Viktor Kubenko grabbed a couple as Bison won 3-1 at Telford, while Aaron Nell and Jonas Hoog both scored two as Swindon Wildcats beat Peterborough 7-3. Bracknell beat Swindon 3-2 after overtime with Sergejs Louskins grabbing the winner.

CLEAR

Belfast Giants are seven points clear at the top of the Elite League after two wins over Coventry Blaze (4-3 & 5-3). Second placed Nottingham Panthers lost 3-2 at Braehead Clan while Sheffield Steelers are a further two points back after beating Dundee Stars 3-1.

(Rick Plant image by kind permission of David Steadman)

Ice Hockey - UK Round-up (from Blackburn Hawks match programme 15/01/12)

2012-01-09T17:17:00.011Z

Billingham Stars have moved nine points clear at the top of ENL1 North after beating Nottingham Lions 4-2. Whitley Warriors lost 6-2 at Trafford – Jake Nurse scored three for the Metros. Telford Titans strengthened their play-off hopes with a comfortable 11-3 win over Blackburn Hawks – Chris Jones grabbed four – and a 10-3 success at Solihull Barons. Tom King (above) scored twice for Blackburn as they recovered from their hammering at Telford by beating Coventry 3-1. Blaze had eased their relegation worries the previous day by beating Trafford 3-0.

Sutton Sting kept up their promotion challenge with a pair of wins over Fylde Flyers. They edged a tight contest at Cleveleys Ice Rink 6-5 and completed a weekend double winning 7-3 on home ice. Flintshire Freeze stay in second place after beating Sheffield Senators 6-5, but a 2-2 draw at home to Hull Stingrays means Sutton are now favourites to clinch second place behind Solway Sharks.

SUCCESS

Solway moved a step closer to clinching their first ENL silverware with a 4-1 win at home to Billingham. Paul Windrindge put Stars ahead, but goals from Bob Chalmers, Adam Reynolds, Struan Tonnar and Nathan Salem secured a hard fought victory.

Romford Raiders remain top of ENL1 South after two wins over Streatham Redskins. Two goals from Danny Marshall (above) helped Raiders to a 6-4 road success and Matt Turner grabbed four in a 7-4 home win. Chelmsford Chieftains won 7-4 at Bristol Bulldogs and by the same score in the reverse fixture to stay second. Wightlink Raiders are third after a 7-4 win over Invicta Dynamos.

SHOCK

MK Lightning are now just one point behind Guildford Flames at the top of the EPL. Flames fell to a shock 6-4 defeat at Swindon Wildcats and Lightning took full advantage, recovering from two down to win 7-2 at home to Telford Tigers – Leigh Jamieson and Nick Poole both scored twice. Jamieson repeated the feat as Lightning came from behind again to win 5-3 at Bracknell Bees.

Third placed Slough Jets suffered a miserable weekend as they slumped to a 4-2 defeat at home to Manchester Phoenix and by the same score at Sheffield Steeldogs. Phoenix are now level on points with Slough after winning 8-5 at Telford – Martin Cingel, Jaroslav Spelda and Juraj Faith all scored twice for the visitors. Sheffield are fifth after easing past Peterborough Phantoms 2-0, while sixth placed Basingstoke Bison grabbed a pair of wins over Bracknell (7-4) and Peterborough (5-2).

BOUNCED

Sheffield Steelers are closing in on the leaders in the Elite League. A trio of road wins over Coventry Blaze (4-1), Fife Flyers (2-1) and Edinburgh Capitals (4-3) sees them seven points behind Belfast Giants with five games in hand. Giants beat Dundee Stars 6-2 to stay three points clear of Nottingham. The Panthers surprisingly lost 4-2 at home to Cardiff devils but bounced back to win the reverse fixture 4-1.

(Danny Marshall image by kind permission of Romford Raiders)

Block 12 Backcheck

2011-12-20T15:11:00.011Z

So as we prepare to bid a fond farewell to 2011 and say a big hello to 2012, here's my take on the year just gone for Blackburn Hawks.

It'd be fair to say there's been more good than bad. Finishing fourth in the league and qualifying for the play-offs was a definite improvement on previous seasons.

The semi-final performance against Whitley, particularly at home, laid down a marker the team could aspire to on a weekly basis.

This season has taken some time to bed down, with road wins at Whitley and Sheffield being two obvious highlights, but two shut-outs against Trafford showed there's still inconsistencies which need eradicating.

The final two home games of the year - against Telford and especially Trafford - once again showed the level which I'm sure Jared and Dangie will be looking to bring to the table every week.

The squad is probably as strong as it's been in quite a while. We've two strong netminders in Dangy and Stuey Ashton - with the latter proving a more than capable back-up on the occasions he's been thrown in. Hopefully the pair of them will push each other on.

On 'D', Chris Arnone and Scott Glover have struck up an excellent partnership, while Craig Rogers and Chad Briggs have been solid. Bobby Streetly has stepped up from ENL2 and proved an astute addition and Lance Derbyshire adds strength to the unit, which we've lacked in previous seasons. Ollie Lomax has been missed and I'm sure everyone has their fingers crossed he gets the all-clear to return in February. Another pleasing aspect has been seeing Troy Evans make the step-up from the juniors.

Up front we now carry a potent threat. While the addition of our new import, Sami Narkia, has attracted all the attention there've been a number of players stepping up to the mark. Jordan Bannon looks an excellent prospect while Ric Ravey's energy and drive have added a new dimension.

The new line of Narkia, Aaron Davies and Tom King seems to be working particularly well - to such an extent you'd be hard pushed to call which our top line is. Rick Hughes and Matt Viney have weighed in with good points totals and with Jared and Sam Dunford in the mix we're in pretty good shape. Brian Worrall's return from Trafford has alomst gone unnoticed by some, but his brilliant goal against the Metros showed what he brings to the team.

No doubt Jared would like to bring in a few more bodies - which coach doesn't - and if we're to ever properly challenge the likes of Billingham and Whitley, then rolling four lines is probably what's needed.

All-in-all 2011 has been a step in the right direction. Here's hoping 2012 continues in the same vein.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to everyone.

Ice Hockey - UK Round-up (games played 18th & 19th December)

2011-12-19T01:21:00.038Z

ENL1 North leaders Billingham Stars won a thrilling North East derby against Whitley Warriors at Hillheads. Warriors took the lead after seven minutes through Callum Watson but Anthony Price levelled things up in the 13th minute. Dean Holland put Warriors back in front moments later, before Simon Hehir (left) immediately tied things up again. DJ Good made it 3-2 to the home team after 16 minutes, but Jamie Pattison sent Stars in level at the end of the first.

Neither team could find the back of the net in the second period, but Stars came out flying in the third with Scott Ward making it 4-3 after 41 minutes. Michael Elder added a fifth midway through the period to secure the points and a seven point lead at the top of the table.

COLLAPSED

Third placed Trafford suffered a pair of humiliating defeats on the road. Ill-discipline cost them dearly at Coventry as Blaze eased to a 5-1 success and Metros then collapsed at Blackburn as the Hawks romped to a 8-1 win - Jared Owen (below) scored twice for Hawks.

Sheffield Spartans recovered from 7-4 down at home to Solihull Barons to draw 7-7, but went on to lose 3-1 to Telford Titans - Karol Jets (2) and Paul Rigby scored Titans goals. Nottingham Lions eased their relegation worries with a 6-2 win at home to the Barons.

BOUNCED

Solway Sharks crushed Lancashire Raptors 24-1 to stay unbeaten at the top of ENL2 North. Nathan Salem (9), Gary Russell (5) and Adam Reynolds (4) led the scoring for Sharks. Flintshire Freeze moved back into second place with a 15-6 win over Fylde Flyers - Simon Furnival (5), James Parsons (3) and Marc Lovell (3) were on the scoresheet for Freeze. Bradford Bulldogs enjoyed a three point weekend with a 5-5 draw at home to Hull Stingrays and an 8-4 win at Sheffield Senators.

Romford Raiders are the new leaders of ENL1 South. Shaun Yardley scored a couple in a 5-2 win at Bracknell Hornets and they followed up with a 9-3 win at home to Invicta Dynamos. Chelmsford Chieftains drop to second after losing 5-4 at Wightlink Raiders - Dominic Hopkins grabbed the winner two minutes from time. Chieftains bounced back with a comfortable 10-3 win at Oxford Stars.

SLUMPED

Guildford Flames have opened up a four point lead at the top of the EPL. Nathan Rempel scored twice in an 8-0 win over Bracknell Bees and Flames recovered from 3-1 in the reverse fixture to seal 4-3 win after a shoot-out - Curtis Huppe scored the winner. Doug Sheppard bagged a hat-trick as Slough beat Manchester Phoenix 9-0, but the Jets slumped to a shock 4-3 loss at lowly Peterborough Phantoms.

MK Lightning beat Swindon Wildcats 3-2 with Leigh Jamieson scoring two, but then fell 4-2 to Phoenix - Martin Cingel scored three for Tony Hand's men. Telford Tigers continue to struggle, losing 5-3 to Peterborough - Ondrej Lauko (above) hit a hat-trick for Phantoms - and 8-2 to Swindon.

FORCE

Sheffield Steelers have closed the gap on Belfast Giants to five points at the top of the Elite League. They beat Fife Flyers 5-3 at home and recovered from 5-1 down in the return at Fife to force overtime before clinching the points a minute into the extra period. Giants beat Dundee Stars 5-4 while third placed Nottingham Panthers slipped to a surprise 4-3 shoot-out loss at home to Coventry Blaze.

(Image permissions: Simon Hehir - Colin Lawson; Ondrej Lauko - Paul Young)

Ice Hockey - UK Round-up (from Blackburn Hawks match programme 18/12/11)

2011-12-12T01:19:00.010Z

Billingham Stars still lead the way in ENL1 North. Michael Elder scored twice for Stars as they beat Trafford Metros 4-1. Whitley Warriors are second after a 7-0 win over Nottingham Lions – DJ Good (2), Callum Watson (2), Dean Holland (2) and Nathan Ryder scored the goals. Blackburn Hawks moved into the play-off places with an emphatic 8-0 win over Telford Titans - Sami Narkia grabbed a hat-trick for the Hawks. Solihull Barons boosted their hopes of avoiding the drop with a 6-3 win over Sheffield Spartans – Erik Bakalar scored a couple for Barons.

RIVALS

Solway Sharks made it 15 ENL2 wins in a row with an 8-3 success over Hull Stingrays. Nathan Salem (4) and Adam Reynolds (2) led the way for Sharks who look title certainties. Sutton Sting are up to second after beating promotion rivals Flintshire Freeze 9-2 – Simon Butterworth and Shaun Ashton both scored two for Sting. Elvis Veldze hit four as Fylde Flyers beat Bradford Bulldogs 9-4, while Lancashire Raptors are still seeking their first points of the season after losing 7-0 to Sheffield Senators.

Chelmsford Chieftains beat Slough Jets 8-2 to stay a point clear at the top of ENL1 South. Romford Raiders are second after a 6-3 win over MK Thunder, while third placed Cardiff Devils beat Streatham Redskins 7-3. Play-off chasing Wightlink Raiders edged past Bristol Bulldogs 5-4 while Invicta Dynamos beat Oxford Stars 9-3.

CROWNED

Guildford Flames grabbed a pair of road wins to open up a two-point lead over Slough Jets at the top of the EPL. Jez Lundin’s (above) last minute empty-netter crowned a 5-3 win at Manchester Phoenix, while Branislav Kvetan notched the shoot-out winner as they beat Sheffield Steeldogs 5-4. Slough split a weekend double-header with third placed MK Lightning, winning 3-1 on home ice but falling 5-2 in the reverse fixture.

Sheffield’s Stuart Brittle scored twice as the Steeldogs beat Basingstoke Bison 5-4, while Juraj Faith grabbed a pair as Phoenix beat Peterborough Phantoms 4-3. Ondrej Lauko hit two as Phantoms beat Telford 4-2 and the Tigers completed a miserable weekend losing 3-1 to Bracknell Bees. Jaroslav Cesky scored twice as Swindon Wildcats won 6-2 against the Bees.

VITAL

Sheffield Steelers grabbed two vital overtime wins to crank up the pressure at the top of the Elite League. They beat leaders Belfast Giants 2-1 and followed up with a 4-3 win over Braehead Clan. Giants recovered to beat Fife Flyers 3-1 while Nottingham Panthers 6-2 win over Edinburgh Capitals keeps them second – a point ahead of Sheffield.

(Image permissions: Sami Narkia - Pete Sheffield; Jez Lundin - Chris Turner)

Rumour rumour...

2011-12-09T17:27:00.002Z

Rumour from British Ice Hockey Twitter feed...

BIH understands that an emergency EIHL meeting has been held today at East Midlands Airport to discuss the league's fragile future.

BIH sources have suggested that Belfast, Braehead, Cardiff, Coventry, Nottingham & Sheffield were in attendance.

However sources claim that Dundee, Edinburgh and Fife were not in attendance as the league looks to restructure ahead of 2012/13.

It is believed that the EIHL are planning to scrap their import quota with unlimited ITC holders allowed on each team for 2012/13.

Furthermore there will also be fundemental personnel changes to the EIHL management structure.

This could then lead to a breakaway 3 import league northen league with Dundee, Edinburgh, Fife leading the way.

Dundee, Edinburgh & Fife are believed to be looking towards Blackburn, Billingham, Newcastle, Solway and Whitley to join them.

Whatever the next step is we hope it's the right one for the sport and safeguards the future of all the clubs.

Furthermore, it is understood the EIHL will bring in a highly strict wage cap that will be 'policed' by an independent organisation.

Hawks in the Telegraph

2011-12-07T14:25:00.001Z

Block 12 Backcheck

2011-12-06T15:53:00.006Z

Almost halfway through the Hawks' season - what do you think of it so far?

Brilliant? Doubtful. Average? Probably. Awful? In places, yes.

Firstly the good stuff. Chris Arnone, Rick Ravey (above) & Matt Viney. All three have been impressive so far. Off-ice, the sterling work done by a number of people has seen crowds and sponsorship increase, and the match-night experience has been vastly improved.

Other than that it's safe to say everything else hasn't been great.

The Sami Narkia signing certainly created a buzz around the team, and while four wins from six appearances is a step in the right direction, things are far from perfect.

It's not my style to start digging out individuals, but a number of the current squad aren't performing to a consistent level often enough.

To go from demolishing Sheffield one night, to the abject performance against Trafford the next day, leaves a lot of unanswered questions about passion, commitment and the heart to dig in when things aren't going your way.

Accusations of some players lacking the stomach for a fight and an apathy towards what's required to become successful, are still rife in and around the Arena and on the forums - whether this is the case only Jared and his players can answer.

When you see certain players not even finishing their checks, it suggests those accusations may have some merit.

I could waffle on for ages about things I think would improve matters - changes to lines, a kick up the backside here and there, dropping the gloves a bit more - but ultimately it's for Jared and Dangy to sort.

In fairness, they have slowly improved things from where they were - Rome wasn't built in a day and all that - but time is moving on.

The next few weeks will tell us much about whether the Hawks can finally shake off the tag of perennial under-achievers - some have said bottlers - we wait with bated breath.

Ice Hockey - UK Round-up (from Blackburn Hawks match programme 11/12/11)

2011-12-05T14:21:00.009Z

Billingham Stars returned to winning ways in ENL1 North with a 7-1 win at Nottingham Lions – Adam Robinson scored twice for Stars. Whitley Warriors remain second after beating Telford Titans 5-1, while Trafford Metros move back into third following a 3-0 win at Blackburn Hawks. Sheffield Spartans fill the final play-off position after slumping to a 7-2 win at home to Hawks – Brian Worrall and Aaron Davies both hit two for the visitors.

Solihull Barons grabbed a thrilling 7-5 derby win over Coventry Blaze. Barons trailed 2-0 at the end of the first, but roared back in the second to tie the game at 3-3. They took control in the third to run out deserving winners. Two goals from Michael Rose helped Nottingham to a 3-2 win at Telford.

Sutton Sting’s ENL2 promotion hopes were dealt a blow as they fell to a shock 4-3 loss at Hull Stingrays. Bradford Bulldogs drew 6-6 with Sheffield Senators and made it a three point weekend with a 7-1 win over Lancashire Raptors.

DISPOSED

Romford Raiders closed the gap on Chelmsford Chieftains at the top of ENL1 South to one point after a pair of wins. JJ McGrath (4) and Danny Marshall (3) led the way as they disposed of MK Thunder 11-1, and two Juraj Huska strikes helped them to a 6-4 win at Invicta Dynamos. Chieftains’ Player/Coach Gary Clarke scored twice in a 5-0 win at Streatham Redskins.

THUMPED

Guildford Flames’ Nathan Rempel (above) grabbed a couple as the EPL leaders won 5-3 at Swindon Wildcats and was also among the scorers in their 5-0 win over Bracknell Bees. Slough Jets stay second after a pair of wins over Sheffield Steelers – Joe Greener bagged a hat-trick in their 5-3 home success and the only goal in the return at Sheffield. MK Lightning are up to third following a 3-2 shoot-out win over Peterborough Phantoms and a 4-1 victory at Telford Tigers.

Martin Cingel scored twice for Manchester Phoenix as they won 6-2 at Bracknell, but their inconsistent form continued as they fell 4-3 at home to Basingstoke – Viktor Kubenko struck twice for Bison. Telford recovered from 5-2 down at Basingstoke to win 6-5 after a shoot-out, while Aaron Nell hit four as Swindon thumped Peterborough 8-1.

OVERTIME

Belfast Giants remain top of the Elite League after wins over Hull Stingrays (5-1) and Cardiff Devils (4-2). Nottingham Panthers are second after a 4-3 win in overtime against Cardiff and a 5-4 success against Dundee Stars. Sheffield Steelers stayed in the title mix after beating Cardiff 4-2 and Hull 3-2 in overtime.

(Nathan Rempel image by kind permission of David Steadman)

Ice Hockey - UK Round-up (from Blackburn Hawks match programme 4/12/11)

2011-11-28T15:48:00.009Z

Billingham Stars lost their unbeaten ENL1 North record as they fell to a shock home defeat to Nottingham Lions. Stars had made it 15 games unbeaten with a 1-1 draw at Coventry Blaze and were expected to triumph over the Lions, but goals from Michael Rose, Danny Rose (above) and Christy Johnson-Brown secured a 3-2 win for Nottingham.

Whitley Warriors closed the gap on Stars to five points with a pair of wins over Blackburn Hawks. Dean Holland scored twice for Warriors in a 5-2 road success and two goals by DJ Good (below left) helped them to a 4-2 win at Hillheads.

Sheffield Spartans moved into third place after beating Trafford Metros 6-3. Andy Turner (2), Ollie Barron, Shannon Lingwood, Shaun Wild and Will Barron scored Spartans goals.

Chelmsford Chieftains still lead ENL2 South after two home wins. They hit ten without reply against Bristol Pitbulls and followed up with a 4-1 success over Invicta Dynamos. Romford Raiders stay second after beating Wightlink Raiders 3-2 and Cardiff Devils 10-4.

Guildford Flames’ 6-2 win over Swindon Wildcats keeps them top of the EPL. Curtis Huppe (above right) scored three for Flames who lead the way on goal difference from Slough. The Jets beat Bracknell Bees 7-2 – Darius Pliskaukas hit a hat-trick – and recorded an impressive 5-3 at Manchester Phoenix - Adam Calder scored twice for the visitors.

Sheffield Steeldogs lost 3-2 at MK Lightning, but beat Telford Tigers 6-4 to stay in third. Lightning are fourth after beating Peterborough Phantoms 4-2. Tom Duggan scored three for Phoenix as they won 5-1 at Basingstoke. Bison also lost to Bracknell 3-1, while Swindon won 5-2 against Peterborough.

Belfast Giants still lead the Elite League after a 6-4 win over Braehead Clan. Nottingham Panthers’ 6-1 over Hull Stingrays keeps them second. Coventry Blaze beat Dundee Stars 3-0 while struggling Fife Flyers were beaten again – 5-1 at Cardiff Devils.

(Image permissions: Danny Rose - John Knowles; Curtis Huppe - David Steadman)

Ice Hockey - UK Round-up (from Blackburn Hawks match programme 26/11/11)

2011-11-22T11:31:00.010Z

Billingham Stars remain unbeaten at the top of ENL1 North. Two first period goals from James McCabe set them on their way to a comfortable success over local rivals Whitley Warriors. Richie Thornton, Simon Hehir, James Udell, Dave Thomas and James Moss added further goals as they ran out 7-2 winners. Stars travelled to Solihull fully expecting to add another win to their tally, but found the Barons in determined mood. Alex Lawson (above) grabbed a couple for the visitors who were surprisingly held 3-3.

Sheffield Spartans picked up a win and a draw to move into a play-off position. On Saturday they travelled to face Coventry Blaze at the Skydome. Gareth Owen put Blaze ahead in the second period, but Ollie Barron levelled the game three minutes from the end.

FIRED

Spartans faced Whitley on Sunday in a thrilling clash in Sheffield. DJ Good gave Warriors an early lead but Shannon Lingwood equalised midway through the first. Shaun Kippin put the visitors back in front just before the first buzzer, and the home team looked in trouble when Good made it 3-1 in the 37th minute. Sheffield came out fired up in the third and tied the game with two quick goals in the 47th minute - Ollie and Will Barron scoring just eight seconds apart. Dean Holland put Warriors back in front, but goals by Elliott Knell (2), Will Barron and Ryan Handisides sealed a 7-4 win.

Blackburn Hawks edged closer to the play-off places after beating Nottingham Lions. Rick Hughes (above - 2), Ric Ravey, Jared Owen, Matt Viney and Chris Arnone scored Hawks’ goals in a 6-2 win.

ROARED

Solway Sharks look firm favourites to win ENL2 North. They comfortably beat Sheffield Senators 17-1 – Nathan Salem (4) and Mark Gallagher (3) led the scoring - before going on to defeat promotion rivals Sutton Sting. Struan Tonnar scored three for Sharks in a 7-1 win which leaves them eight points clear.

Flintshire Freeze moved into second place after beating Lancashire Raptors 13-1 – James Parsons bagged five. Hull Stingrays beat Bradford Bulldogs 6-0 and Sheffield recovered from their defeat at Solway to beat Fylde Flyers 4-3.

Romford Raiders clinched the ENL Southern Cup after a stirring comeback at Chelmsford Chieftains. The home team led 5-2 in the second period but Romford roared back to win 7-5 and secure the first trophy of the season.

Chelmsford are still top of ENL1 South after a 9-2 win over MK Thunder. Romford stay three points behind after disposing of Bracknell Hornets 11-3. Third placed Wightlink Raiders beat Slough Jets 4-2 but lost 3-1 to Cardiff Devils, while the Welsh outfit strengthened their hold on fourth by winning 6-2 at Bristol Pitbulls. Invicta Dynamos are fifth after a pair of road wins – 10-4 against Thunder and 12-3 at Streatham Redskins.

SHOCKED

Guildford Flames are the new leaders of the EPL. Milos Melicherik (3) and Curtis Huppe (2) helped them to a 6-0 success at Telford Tigers and the pair grabbed the goals in a 2-1 win at Swindon Wildcats. Flames secured top spot after a 4-1 win over Slough Jets who also slumped 7-3 at home to Basingstoke – Nicky Chinn hit a hat-trick for Bison. Steve Moria and Daniel Volrab both bagged a brace as Bison crushed Swindon 7-2.

Edgars Bebris scored twice as Sheffield Steeldogs beat MK Lightning 4-1, but Peter Jasik’s shootout winner denied them a four-point weekend as they fell 2-1 at Bracknell Bees. Lightning’s Blaz Emersic and Leigh Jamieson both scored twice in a 6-1 win over Telford who also lost 3-2 to Bracknell. Luke Ferrera hit a couple for Peterborough Phantoms as they shocked Manchester Phoenix 3-1, but Tony Hand’s men gained revenge on home ice winning 4-1.

THRILLER

Fife Flyers (left) won their first game in the Elite League after a thriller with Hull Stingrays. Matt Siddall tied the game at 4-4 with just over a minute remaining and after a scoreless overtime period, Mike Hamilton hit Flyers’ winner in the shoot-out. Belfast Giants remain top after a 4-3 shoot-out win over Dundee Stars and a 7-1 win over Fife. Sheffield Steelers beat Braehead Clan 4-2 and closed the gap on second placed Nottingham Panthers beating them 3-2 after overtime.

(Image permissions as follows: Alex Lawson - IceHockeyMedia Photography, Fife - shotbyagunn Photography)

Ice Hockey - UK Round-up (from Blackburn Hawks match programme 20/11/11)

2011-11-15T13:26:00.011Z

Billingham Stars roared to a 7-1 win at Nottingham Lions to stay top of ENL1 North. Alex Lawson (2), Andy Finn, Mick Elder, Paul Windridge, Simon Hehir and Andy Fletcher did the damage for Stars who are still unbeaten in the league. Whitley Warriors remain second after beating Telford Titans 5-1 - DJ Good (above) was among the scorers - while Trafford Metros are third after easing past Coventry Blaze 4-2.

Blackburn Hawks beat Solihull Barons 8-2 with Rick Hughes and new Finnish import Sami Narkia both scoring twice, while Sheffield Spartans fell to a shock defeat at home to Nottingham. Will Barron and Jon Woolhouse gave them an early lead but Gareth O’Flaherty and Joe Wightman levelled things before the end of the first. Shaun Wild and Nathan Britton put Spartans back in front but Lions fought back with Mark Corfield, Ben Wood, Ciaran Quinn and Danny Rose completing an unlikely turn around.

PROLIFIC

Solway Sharks made it 12 ENL2 wins on the spin with an 8-1 win over Hull Stingrays. Top scorer Adam Reynolds hit three for Sharks who look firm favourites to gain promotion. Sutton Sting moved into second after demolishing Lancashire Raptors 15-0 with the prolific Ben Lowe (5) and Shaun Ashton (4) among the scorers. Hull moved into fourth after beating Fylde Flyers 6-3, while Bradford Bulldogs beat Raptors 5-0 to leave the Lancastrians rooted to the foot of the table.

Blackburn kept their Northern Cup hopes alive with a 6-4 win over Whitley. Aaron Davies (2), Narkia (2 - above), Jordan Bannon and Ric Ravey grabbed Hawks’ goals.

ENL1 South leaders Chelmsford Chieftains surprisingly lost 7-4 at Cardiff Devils but they returned to winning ways with a hard fought 5-3 win over Wightlink Raiders. Second placed Romford Raiders comfortably defeated Bristol Pitbulls 9-2 – Juraj Huska scored three - but two Andy Smith strikes sent them tumbling to a 4-1 loss at Invicta Dynamos. Wightlink stay in the title picture after a 10-3 win over Oxford Stars – Canadian Joe Rand bagged a hat-trick for the islanders.

DEADLOCK

Slough Jets still lead the way in the EPL. They made it nine wins from their last ten games beating Peterborough Phantoms 6-2 and Bracknell Bees 5-4 after a penalty shoot-out – Dan Davies hit the winning goal. Sheffield Steeldogs’ Greg Wood hit a couple in a 4-1 at injury-hit Manchester Phoenix and repeated the feat during regulation against Bracknell Bees. Steeldogs had been 5-2 down at the end of the second but recovered to score three unanswered goals to send the game into overtime. With no further scoring it was left to Wood to break the deadlock with the shoot-out winner. The Yorkshire outfit failed to make it three wins for the week as they fell 5-2 to Peterborough – Luke Ferrera scored two for the Phantoms.

Guildford Flames have struggled on the road this season and lost again at Basingstoke – Joe Miller’s shoot-out strike gave Bison a 3-2 win. Flames enjoyed better luck back on home ice as hat-tricks by Curtis Huppe and Dave Longstaff helped them see off Phoenix 9-4. Martin Cingel gave Tony Hand’s men some relief with a hat-trick of his own as Telford were beaten 9-5 – a result which sent the Tigers to the foot of the table having also lost 3-2 to Bison. MK Lightning’s Blaz Emersic scored three in a 5-3 win at Swindon but Wildcats gained revenge with a 3-2 win in the reverse fixture.

EMPHATIC

Nottingham Panthers have closed the gap on Belfast Giants to two points at the top of the Elite League. Panthers edged a close contest with third placed Sheffield Steelers 1-0 and followed up with an emphatic 8-1 win at Fife Flyers. Belfast also beat Fife (6-3), but also fell to a surprise 2-1 defeat to Cardiff Devils. Coventry Blaze are fourth after a 4-3 win against Dundee Stars.

(DJ Good image by kind permission of John Knowles)

Graham Lomax - Anti-Christ?

2011-11-11T16:23:00.022Z

Every club has one - a person who polarises opinion. For Blackburn Hawks that would be Graham Lomax.

A quick trawl of some online forums brings up descriptions such as “Marmite” and, rather more viciously, “Anti-Christ”. Lomax himself suggests “Pantomime Villain” would be nearer the mark. He’s certainly opinionated and definitely not everyone’s cup of tea – but beneath the surface lies a man who cares passionately about his club and the sport. In some respects he’s like Dave Simms without the Sky TV exposure.

Lomax and his family have been connected to the Hawks for around 15 years. During that time he’s sponsored the team, held various positions including a spell as Manager and now serves in a slightly more diluted role as part of a newly formed management committee. Despite this, his desire for the club to be successful still burns as brightly as ever.

HASSLE

Controversies have been a feature of his time with the Hawks. Bust-ups with players, disagreements with Blackburn Arena management and a seemingly never-ending stream of aggravation online, might have affected a lesser individual – but Lomax continually dusts himself off and moves on. When pushed for the reasons behind some of the problems, he admitted his ways weren’t to everyone’s tastes.

“Maybe it’s because I’m too honest”, he said. “I tell things as I see them and sometimes people don’t like to hear a different opinion from their own. Then the rumours and gossip start – one person tells someone you’re a nasty piece of work and suddenly that’s how you’re being perceived.”

Much like Simms, one of his pet hates is those who criticise and abuse online, but don’t have the guts to speak in person about whatever issue is bothering them. The knock-on effect is the impact it has on family life, with Lomax confessing his wife Tracey has often asked if being involved with the Hawks is worth all the hassle it causes.

STELLAR

In addition to his personal link to the club, Lomax has another which is undoubtedly his most cherished – his son Ollie. A product of the Hawks junior set-up, Ollie is a whole-hearted defenseman described by his dad as being “Blackburn Hawks through and through”, and it’s that level of feeling which resulted in a difficult situation for the Lomax family to deal with.

In 2008/09 Hawks made a poor start to the season and drafted in former player Neil Abel as Head Coach. Abel had enjoyed a stellar playing career, featuring for the likes of Fife Flyers and Sheffield Steelers during the boom years of the Heineken League. He’d gone on to achieve coaching success with Sheffield Scimitars taking them from the ENL into the EPL, culminating in being awarded Ice Hockey Journalists UK Coach of the Year in 2007. He’s now on the coaching staff with the Steelers in the Elite League.

His appointment at Blackburn was heralded as a coup for the club, with Abel moving quickly to bring in long-time friend and team-mate Les Millie as his assistant. The appointments proved disastrous with Abel alienating players and fans, ending with the club losing a relegation play-off to Manchester Phoenix ENL – although they were later reprieved due to Billingham Bombers dropping out of the league.

DESPAIR

Lomax remembers being delighted when hearing of Abel’s appointment, but that delight soon turned to despair. Hawks had played at Newcastle in a game which ended with Ollie being treated at hospital for a facial injury. They travelled to face Nottingham Lions the following week and, with the team short-benched, Ollie insisted on playing wearing his face cage. The performance was poor and emotions between the players began to run high. Lomax watched on as things escalated.

“There was an exchange of words between Ollie and Rick Bentham. It carried over onto the bench, but was never anything more than that. Bear in mind they were the best of mates, they grew up together and they’re still friends today.”

Following the match Lomax received a call from Abel saying Ollie had been released due to him throwing punches at a team-mate which left him dumbstruck.

SCAPEGOAT

“It was a complete fabrication. I was stood a few feet from where it happened and it was nothing more than words – I couldn’t believe what I was hearing.”

Disbelief soon turned to anger as comments were made online supporting the decision, despite some people not actually witnessing what had gone on. Team management quickly issued a press release confirming Abel’s decision. Lomax believes Ollie was made a scapegoat because of him.

“I firmly believe someone turned Abel against Ollie because he was my son. I’ve my suspicions as to who it was, but no idea why because I wasn’t directly involved with the team at the time – I was simply a dad watching his son play for the team he loves.”

POWERLESS

The family, particularly Ollie, were heartbroken. Some team-mates made it clear they were unhappy with what had gone on, but Lomax admits they were in a difficult position because of Abel and Millie’s status within the game. Blackburn Arena management attempted to intervene without success.

Lomax recalls a ruined Christmas with Ollie barely venturing out for a few weeks and confessed he felt “powerless” to do anything.

A few weeks passed and with Hawks continuing to struggle under Abel, Billingham coach Terry Ward helped get Ollie back on the ice again by inviting him to play for the Bombers. Lomax describes the time spent there as a “fantastic experience” with the club and their fans welcoming them with open arms. Towards the end of the regular season Hawks travelled to Billingham needing to win to avoid the relegation play-off but the Bombers, with Ollie leading the way, sent them packing. Lomax remembers the night with pride.

SHAMBLES

“Ollie wanted to prove a point and really got under the skin of some of the Hawks players that night. The most humbling moment though was when the crowd let Abel know what they thought of him.”

The play-off loss saw them both receive criticism for making it clear they wanted Hawks to lose, but Lomax says it was more about wanting Abel to fail than anything else. In front of a large travelling support Hawks came up short, with Millie actually failing to show for the most important game of the season. Lomax describes the whole thing as a “shambles” with the club “haemorrhaging money for no return”.

In an interview featured on www.prohockeynews.com in 2010, Millie made no reference to his time with the Hawks – citing 2008 as the year he retired from the sport. Abel, Millie and Bentham were all approached to give their version of events, but declined to comment.

FOCUSSED

When it became clear neither would be returning to Blackburn and, despite not knowing who’d be coaching the team, Arena management called Lomax to invite Ollie back home to the Hawks. The return hasn’t been plain sailing, with Ollie being ruled out this season after a shoulder operation, but Lomax is happy they’re back.

“It’s our home town and I wouldn’t want Ollie anywhere else. We were treated so well at Billingham and it was nice to see positive comments on their site about Ollie before they played the Hawks recently. I’m sure they’ll understand though that Ollie’s delighted to be back at Blackburn.”

Ollie’s view on events was short and to the point, saying he felt “he was over it” and he’d “come out on top”. He was reluctant to drag Bentham into things and wanted to “let bygones be bygones”. He added he was focussed on getting himself back to full fitness once again.

PROGRESS

In his new role as part of themanagement team at Blackburn, Lomax is convinced the club is now moving in the right direction. Under new coach Jared Owen (above), Hawks qualified for the play-offs last term and are looking to improve on that this season. Lomax acknowledges Owen’s role in the turn around.

“The Hawks are very much a work in progress but under Jared things are starting to take shape. I’m 100% convinced he’s the right man for the job. People with the level of commitment he, and his assistant Danny Brittle, put in are few and far between. They’re still young men and still learning but they’re definitely the right people.”

Whether a description of Lomax as the Anti-Christ or merely a Pantomime Villain is accurate or otherwise is debatable – it’d be fair to say the man himself doesn’t really care. But seeing Blackburn Hawks succeed is clearly something he cares deeply about and, love him or hate him, it seems he’s never going to stop trying to make it happen.

(Image permissions as follows: Abel & Millie - Tony Greenwood, Ollie Lomax - Kieanna Jade Photography)

Ice Hockey - UK Round-up (from Blackburn Hawks match programme 12/11/11)

2011-11-08T13:02:00.019Z

Billingham Stars have extended their lead at the top of ENL1 North. Goals from Alex Lawson and James Udell helped them to a 2-1 win at Trafford Metros and they followed up with a 4-1 home success over Coventry Blaze. Reigning champions Whitley Warriors are now second. Following a 4-1 loss at Blackburn they recovered to defeat the Hawks 4-2 on home ice – Shaun Kippin (left) scored twice. Former Newcastle Vipers netminder Richie Lawson made his debut as Warriors travelled to face Nottingham Lions and helped them to a 4-3 win.

Sheffield Spartans continued their recent good form with a 5-2 win at Telford Titans – Nick Manning and Ollie Barron both scored a couple. Titans bounced back with a 6-4 win at Coventry Blaze with Adam Taylor and Paul Rigby each getting a pair. Two goals from Joe Wightman helped Nottingham to a 6-2 win over Solihull Barons.

DOMINATE

Solway Sharks continue to dominate ENL2. Alan Gibson (6), Adam Reynolds (4) and Mark Gallagher (3) led the scoring as Bradford Bulldogs were dismissed 19-2. Second and third placed Sutton Sting and Flintshire Freeze met with Sting running out 11-3 winners – Richie Oliver (below) scored five.

Sutton also crushed Bradford with Ben Lowe (4), Simon Butterworth (3), and Shaun Ashton (3) amongst the goals. Flintshire recovered from the loss to Sting with a 6-3 win over Fylde Flyers – James Parsons scored three. Lancashire Raptors remain pointless after defeats to Bradford (5-1) and Sheffield Senators (7-0).

Billingham bagged their first win in the Northern Cup with a 7-4 success over Blackburn Hawks. In the Southern section, Invicta Dynamos’ Andy Smith reached 700 points for the club with a hat-trick in their 8-4 win over Wightlink Raiders and two in a 3-2 victory over Chelmsford Chieftains.

Chelmsford remain top of ENL1 South. They followed up an 8-2 road success over Bristol Pitbulls with a 4-2 home win over title rivals Romford Raiders – player-coach Gary Clarke scored three. Raiders’ Juraj Huska has been in fine scoring form, hitting two in 6-3 wins over Cardiff Devils and Wightlink and three as they beat Slough Jets 7-6. Wightlink disposed of Slough (8-3) and Invicta (3-2) to stay firmly in the hunt.

SHOCK

Slough Jets have moved to the top of the EPL. Tom Carlon scored three as they beat Telford Tigers 6-3 and Adam Calder repeated the feat in 10-4 success at Peterborough Phantoms. Carlon and Darius Pliskaukas each grabbed a couple in a 7-3 win at Swindon Wildcats but the Jets suffered a shock 3-0 loss in the reverse fixture on home ice.

Guildford Flames are second despite some mixed results. They beat Manchester Phoenix 5-3 but fell to Sheffield Steeldogs 3-2 with Andre Payette bagging the shoot-out winner. Nathan Rempel’s brace helped Flames gain revenge in a 4-3 win over the Steeldogs but their inconsistency continued as they fell 6-4 to MK Lightning. Player/coach Paul Dixon settled the return fixture with the decider in a 4-3 shoot-out win.

Lightning have dropped to third after losing to Peterborough (4-1) and Bracknell Bees (4-3) while Sheffield are fourth following a 3-2 home loss to Phoenix and a 7-5 win at Telford – Janis Ozolins hit a hat-trick. Defending champions Manchester have also struggled for consistency as they thumped Basingstoke Bison 5-2 but lost the return fixture on home ice 3-0.

Bison’s Viktor Kubenko scored three as they beat Swindon 5-2 while Joe Miller’s overtime strike sealed a 4-3 win over Peterborough. Telford’s Juraj Senko hit shoot-out winners at home to Swindon and away to Bracknell while Lukas Smital scored three as the bees routed Peterborough 8-5. Swindon’s clash with local rivals Bracknell was a hard fought affair which the Wildcats edged 3-2.

SUCCESS

Belfast Giants are still top of the Elite League. They followed a 3-2 success over Nottingham Panthers with a 3-2 win at Hull Stingrays but a 4-1 defeat at Braehead Clan and a 4-3 shoot-out loss to Coventry Blaze means the lead is down to four points.

Sheffield Steelers are second after wins over Dundee Stars (8-5), Coventry (2-0) and Edinburgh Capitals (6-1) while Nottingham are third. The Panthers lost 3-1 to Cardiff Devils but a 6-0 win over Dundee and a 3-2 shoot-out success against Fife Flyers keeps them in touch.

(Image permissions as follows: Shaun Kippin - John Knowles, Ben Lowe - Gary Apsley)

Block 12 Backcheck

2011-11-01T11:32:00.012Z

It's not easy this supporting malarkey.

Lose to Trafford, beat Whitley, lose to Solway, beat Coventry, lose to Billingam, beat Whitley and yes, you've guessed it, lose to Whitley.

Inconsistent, infuriating and, most definitely, under achieving.

In patches - recovering from 3-1 down to beat Coventry 9-3 - the Hawks have been excellent. At other times - collapsing at Billingham and conceding three goals in a minute at Whitley - it's been horrible.

Once again there's been the old chestnut, coming from within the camp, that certain players need "to take a long hard look in the mirror at themselves" , and it's clear there are issues which need addressing.

It's safe to say our coach - Jared Owen - has done a great job getting things moving in the right direction after the dark days of Neil Abel and Les Millie.

But something's still missing.

While acknowledging that ENL1 is amateur in status, there has to be some degree of professionalism when you're playing in front of decent sized crowds who are parting with their hard earned cash. When some of those punters are travelling fair distances to take in away games, then that professionalism should be more noticeable.

So the question which I guess should be posed by those "certain players" could well be - "should I be going out until all hours of the day before I'm due to play?" - especially when fitness during some games has clearly been a problem.

The lack of an out-and-out goalscorer - especially on the road - still hasn't been sorted. No doubt there's been work going on behind the scenes to address this, but accusations of a lack of support from the Arena still prevail. There's a handful of decent marksmen plying their trade in ENL2 - why haven't we been able to attract any of them?

On top of all that there's the problem of the lack of input from the bench on match days. I know from experience it's one of the hardest things in sport to play and manage at the same time - almost impossible.

When Solway came to the Arena they had Simon Leach on the bench organising proceedings and it doesn't half make a difference.

Owen has turned things around - but if the Hawks are to ever fulfil their obvious potential, there's still some way to go.

Ice Hockey - UK Round-up (from Blackburn Hawks match programme 29/10/11)

2011-10-25T09:13:00.034+01:00

Billingham Stars remain top of ENL1 North, but not without a scare along the way. They recovered from 2-0 down at Telford Titans to draw 2-2 and also dropped a point at home to Sheffield Spartans with Nick Manning grabbing a hat-trick for the visitors in a 5-5 thriller. The Teessiders returned to winning ways with a 6-1 success against Blackburn Hawks.

Trafford Metros are second following a 7-3 win over Solihull Barons with Telford in third. Two goals each for Adam Taylor and Ashley Stanton helped Titans to a 7-2 victory at Nottingham Lions, but they fell 3-2 at home to Whitley Warriors despite leading twice – DJ Good scored twice for Whitley. Good repeated the feat as the defending champions overcame Solihull Barons 4-2 and hit another as the Warriors edged past Coventry Blaze 3-2.

Sheffield’s Will Barron (above) scored three in Spartans’ 5-2 win over the Lions who went on to lose 4-3 at Solihull. The Barons had trailed 3-0 but recovered in style with Richard Slater and Toni Scialdone both scoring twice. Despite the win, Solihull remain bottom after a 9-2 defeat to Blaze who themselves had been on the wrong end of things in a 9-3 loss to the Hawks.

RIVALS

Solway Sharks still lead the way in Division Two. They saw off promotion rivals Sutton Sting 5-3 and thumped Lancashire Raptors 11-1. Netminder Garry Russell made a rare appearance as a forward and scored three while Nathan Salem (3) and Adam Reynolds (2 - below) continued their prolific form.

Flintshire Freeze have won four on the spin to stay in second place. James Parsons hit three in their 12-1 road win over the Raptors while Marc Lovell grabbed a couple as they beat Bradford Bulldogs 7-3 at home. Gavin Austin and Simon Furnival notched a pair as the Bulldogs were beaten 8-1 on home ice and Andy Chappell (3) and Parsons (2) led the scoring as Sheffield Senators fell 7-5 at Deeside.

Sutton are third after beating Hull Stingrays 6-3 home and away while the only other game saw Bradford thrash Fylde Flyers 9-2.

THRILLING

Chelmsford Chieftains are five points clear at the top of ENL1 South. Alan Green scored three as they beat Bracknell Hornets 12-1 then grabbed a pair in their 10-3 win over MK Thunder. Invicta Dynamos provided a sterner test but Chieftains secured the points with a thrilling 5-4 win. Romford Raiders are in second and retained their perfect record with an 11-3 win over Streatham Redskins and a 4-2 success at Oxford Stars. Reigning champions Wightlink Raiders moved into third with wins over Bristol Bulldogs (9-3), Oxford (4-3), Bracknell (10-0) and Cardiff Devils (6-3) – Canadian Joe Rand hit ten goals in the four games.

Romford’s Andrius Kaminskas grabbed a couple as the Raiders ran out comfortable 6-1 winners over Invicta in the ENL Cup South. The result leaves the Essex outfit clear at the top of the group.

DECIDER

MK Lightning are the new leaders of the EPL. Grant McPherson hit the decider in a 4-3 shoot-out win over Bracknell Bees in Milton Keynes and they followed up with two wins on the road at Telford Tigers (3-1) and Basingstoke Bison (1-0). Adam Carr hit a couple on their return to home ice as Bison were defeated 4-1. Second placed Slough Jets have also won four on the spin with Dan Davies scoring overtime winners at Manchester Phoenix and Telford. Darius Pliskaukas scored twice in 4-1 home wins over Sheffield Steeldogs and Guildford Flames. The Steeldogs are third after wins over Bracknell (2-1) and Peterborough Phantoms (5-2) while Phoenix are fourth after a 4-2 loss to Swindon Wildcats and a 5-3 win over the Bees.

Swindon sit in fifth place having beaten Peterborough 4-3 at home – Jaroslav Cesky scored twice – but the Phantoms gained revenge in the return fixture, Chris Allen bagging a couple in a 5-4 win. The Wildcats also crashed 7-0 to Guildford. The Flames smashed seven past struggling Bison with Curtis Huppe and Matt Towe both scoring twice. Basingstoke picked up the points in a 7-2 win over Telford while the Tigers shocked the Steeldogs by recovering from 3-0 down to snatch an unlikely 4-3 win after a shoot-out. Maris Ziedins hit the shoot-out winner for Peterborough as they won by the same score in Bracknell.

SURPRISE

Belfast Giants still lead the Elite League despite a surprise 3-0 loss to Coventry Blaze. The Giants’ wins over Cardiff Devils (6-2) and Dundee Stars (7-1) sees them three points in front of Nottingham Panthers who beat Hull Stingrays (3-2) but also lost to Blaze (4-3). Sheffield Steelers are third following a comfortable 4-0 win over Dundee while Fife Flyers are still awaiting their first win of the season after losing twice to Edinburgh Capitals.

(Image permissions as follows: Will Barron - Gav Rawson, Adam Reynolds - David Morrison, Andy Chappell - Pete Sheffield)

Ice Hockey - UK Round-up (from Blackburn Hawks match programme 16/10/11)

2011-10-12T17:22:00.002+01:00

ENL1 North leaders Billingham Stars comfortably disposed of Solihull Barons 8-0 to stay top of the pile. James Udell and Scott Ward set Stars on their way with goals in the first five minutes. Simon Hehir, Andy Flecther, Stuart Gibbon and a second strike from Ward extended the lead in the second, while final period goals from Gibbon and James McCabe completed the rout. Trafford Metros are level on points with Billingham after a 4-0 away win over third placed Telford Titans.

Coventry Blaze continued their unpredictable form with a win and a loss. They followed a 7-3 success over Whitley Warriors with a 6-2 defeat in Sheffield – Shaun Wild (below) scored twice for Spartans. The Warriors’ quest for a third title on the spin suffered a further setback as they could only draw 3-3 at home to Nottingham Lions. Jordan Barnes gave them the lead but Gareth O’Flaherty and Joe Wightman put the visitors in front by the end of the first period. Wightman added another in the second, but goals in the third by DJ Good and Jamie Tinsley salvaged a point for Whitley.

DEMOLITION

Solway Sharks remain top of ENL2 North after an 18-6 demolition of Fylde Flyers. Goals from Aiden Fulton (2), Bob Chalmers (2), Calum Henderson and Ross Murray gave Sharks a 6-2 lead at the end of the first – Elvis Veldze grabbed both for Fylde.

Veldze completed his hat-trick in the 33rd minute, but Murray restored Sharks’ four goal cushion soon after. Flyers hit back through Veldze and Richard Hulme to close the gap to two. Solway ran riot in the final period as Chalmers completed his hat-trick while Adam Reynolds (4), Struan Tonner, Frazer Goldie, Nathan Salem, Lewis Gold and Mark Gallagher were all on target. Flyers only reply was Veldze’s fifth of the night which secured him the MVP award.

Flintshire’s Chris Jones scored three as Freeze beat Lancashire Raptors 7-0 and he repeated the feat in their 8-5 win over Sheffield Senators. The all-Yorkshire clash between Bradford Bulldogs and Hull Stingrays saw the Humbersiders triumph 8-4.

BURST

Chelmsford Chieftains still lead the way in ENL1 South. Ross Brears scored three in their 8-2 win at Slough Jets while Danny Hammond went one better as they beat Oxford Stars 7-2. Romford Raiders maintained their unbeaten record with a 7-2 win over Bracknell Hornets while defending champions Wightlink Raiders won 7-3 at Streatham Redskins. Invicta Dynamos had a mixed weekend losing 8-3 at Cardiff Devils but winning by the same score at Bristol Pitbulls – Rick Bentham scored four.

Solway extended their lead in the ENL North Cup with a 6-2 win over Blackburn Hawks in front of a big crowd at Blackburn Arena. After a scoreless first period the game burst into life in the second as Adam Reynolds and Nathan Salem put the Sharks in front. Rick Hughes pulled one back for Hawks, but Lewis Gold restored the two goal cushion moments later. Solway pulled away in the third with Salem and Mark Gallagher making it 5-1 before Jordan Bannon (above) reduced the deficit for the home team, but Bob Chalmers raced away to score Sharks’ sixth and extinguish any hopes of a comeback.

In the Southern section, Slovakian forward Juraj Huska’s four-goal haul helped Romford beat Wightlink 6-4 in the battle of the Raiders at Ryde Arena. Wightlink led 3-1 at the end of the first but Romford battled back to remain unbeaten in the group.

CLAWED

Manchester Phoenix are the new leaders in the EPL. Juraj Faith scored twice as they beat Peterborough Phantoms 5-0 in Altrincham. The Slovakian then opened the scoring for Phoenix away to Telford Tigers but Joe Henry equalised and the game went to overtime where the teams still couldn’t be separated. Faith scored again in the shoot-out but Marek Hornak and Juraj Senko gave Tigers the win.

Sheffield Steeldogs are second after a 3-0 loss to Guildford Flames and a 4-2 win over Basingstoke Bison – Janis Ozolins scored a couple for the Dogs. Bison also lost at home to Slough Jets. The teams finished 2-2 at the end of the first before Bison raced into a 6-3 lead during the second. Jets clawed their way back to 6-5 at the end of the period and went on to secure the points with two unanswered goals in the third. Marcel Petran hit three for Bison while Adam Calder did the same for the Jets.

MK Lightning had a pair of wins over Telford (3-0) and Slough (3-1) while Bracknell Bees and Swindon Wildcats notched 1-0 road wins over each other. Peterborough’s Maris Zeidins hit a hat-trick as the Phantoms beat the Flames 6-4 to secure their first points of the season.

WOES

Belfast Giants have opened up a three point lead over Sheffield Steelers and Nottingham Panthers at the top of the Elite League. They followed up a 4-3 win at Hull Stingrays with an impressive 5-2 success at Coventry Blaze – George Awada bagged a hat-trick. Steelers’ won 3-2 after a shoot-out against Cardiff Devils while Nottingham Panthers comfortably beat Edinburgh Capitals (7-3) and Braehead Clan (3-0). Dundee Stars gained their first win of the season beating Hull 3-1 while Fife Flyers’ woes continued with a 4-2 loss against Cardiff.

(Shaun Wild image reproduced by kind permission of Gavin Rawson)

Ice Hockey - UK Round-up (from Blackburn Hawks match programme 9/10/11)

2011-10-04T00:11:00.011+01:00

Billingham Stars’ perfect start to the season in ENL1 North continued with wins over Coventry Blaze, Sheffield Spartans and Telford Titans. Paul Windridge and Cal Davies both scored twice in a 4-2 win over Blaze while Spartans were thumped 8-4 with Anthony Price and Davies again grabbing a couple. An 8-1 success over the Titans sent the Stars to the top of the table with James Moss and Simon Hehir each bagging a brace.

Trafford Metros drop to second following a 7-3 loss to Sheffield – Nick Manning scored twice for Spartans – and a 4-2 defeat to Telford who also beat Solihull Barons 5-3 with Adam Taylor hitting a hat-trick for the Titans. However, Metros’ 5-0 win over Blackburn Hawks sees them level on points with the Stars. Two goals from Aaron Davies and one each from Gary Dixon (above) and Jordan Bannon helped the Hawks to a 4-2 victory over Sheffield, while DJ Good, Shaun Kippin and Jordan Barnes scored as Whitley Warriors secured a 3-2 win over Coventry.

Blaze forward Rikki Bryniarski scored twice as they beat Nottingham 3-1 while the Lions also fell 3-2 to Solihull with Lui Brindle hitting two for the Barons. Solihull blew a four goal lead to the Spartans, eventually losing 7-4 with Andy Turner (3) and Ollie Barron (2) leading the scoring.

SURGE

Solway Sharks remain unbeaten in ENL2 North. Mark Gallagher, Adam Reynolds, Joe Coulter and Lewis Gold all scored twice in a 10-2 win at Hull Stingrays. Gallagher and Gold went onto to grab four apiece in the 16-0 demolition of Fylde Flyers with Ross Murray hitting a hat-trick and Nathan Salem (above) and Reynolds scoring a couple each. Sharks then faced the only other unbeaten team, Sutton Sting, and edged home 8-5 with Aiden Fulton notching three for the Dumfries outfit. Sting went into the game on the back of a 5-2 win over Sheffield Senators and led the Sharks 5-4 at the end of the second period but had no answer to Solway’s surge in the third.

Flintshire’s Chris Jones and James Parsons both hit hat-tricks as Freeze beat Bradford Bulldogs 6-4. The Senators beat Bradford 7-3 on home ice before the Bulldogs grabbed their first points of the season winning 4-1 in the return fixture. Hull Stingrays smashed 11 without reply against a still pointless Lancashire Raptors.

Chelmsford Chieftains are top of ENL1 South after wins over Cardiff Devils (5-3), Bracknell Hornets (12-0) and Wightlink Raiders (6-3). Just a point behind are Romford Raiders who boast a 100% record. The Raiders defeated the Chieftains 5-4 and went on to thump MK Thunder 9-0. Invicta Dynamos are third following their 6-5 win over Wightlink who also surprisingly lost 4-1 to MK Thunder. The reigning champions recovered to beat Slough Jets 7-0.

INSPIRED

In the ENL North Cup, Solway beat Billingham 2-1 with goals from Alan Crane and Mark Gallagher cancelling out Andrew Fletcher’s opener, while Blackburn got their campaign underway with a 3-2 win over Whitley at Hillheads – Matt Viney (2) and Jordan Bannon scored for Hawks with Callum Watson and Martin Crammond replying for Warriors. Hawks netminder Danny Brittle (above) was in inspired form gaining a well deserved MVP.

Romford travelled to Kent to face Invicta in the ENL South Cup and secured a 10-5 victory to maintain their unbeaten record in the group. Player/coach Danny Marshall led the way with a hat-trick.

CRASHED

Sheffield Steeldogs are the early leaders of the EPL. They followed a 3-2 overtime win at Swindon Wildcats with a 4-1 success in the reverse fixture before falling 3-2 to Steve Moria’s Basingstoke Bison. The Steeldogs returned to winning ways as two strikes from Janis Ozolins helped them to a 4-2 win over MK Lightning.

Reigning champions Manchester Phoenix are level on points with Sheffield after also winning three of their first four matches. Martin Cingel scored twice in a 5-3 success at Slough Jets (highlights above) and repeated the feat in a 5-4 overtime win over Bison. Phoenix crashed 5-2 to Lightning with Lukas Zatopek and Adam Carr both scoring two, but recovered to ease past Swindon 3-2 – Cingel again scoring twice.

Swindon and Basingstoke are a point behind the top two. Two goals each for Jonas Hoog and Jaroslav Cesky were the highlights of Wildcats’ 8-1 home win over Telford Tigers who crumbled 6-0 in the return fixture. Bison beat Bracknell Bees 4-2 at home but two goals from Rob Lamey and Martin Masa saw the Bees triumph 7-3 in Bracknell.

Slough Jets are fifth despite a 5-2 loss in Bracknell. Four Adam Calder goals helped the Jets gain revenge over the Bees with a 7-3 win while two Mindy Kieras strikes saw off Peterborough Phantoms 7-4. Play-off champions Guildford were shocked 4-1 by Telford with Josh Bruce grabbing a couple, but the Flames recovered in style with a pair of 7-1 wins over Peterborough and Telford.

SPIN

Belfast Giants still lead the way in the Elite League. The Giants beat Fife Flyers 9-1 and edged past title rivals Nottingham Panthers 2-1 before easily dismissing Edinburgh Capitals 5-0. Sheffield Steelers are second after winning three on the spin at home. They followed a 6-4 success over Coventry Blaze with two shut-outs over Hull Stingrays (6-0) and Fife (5-0). Blaze are third after a thrilling 7-6 over the Panthers and a 4-3 overtime victory against Dundee Stars. Wins for the Panthers over Hull (6-2) and the Stars (4-1) sees them in fourth place.

Braehead Clan have won two of their first three games defeating Dundee 6-0 and Cardiff Devils 3-1. Their only loss so far is a 5-2 reverse in Cardiff. Fife picked up their first ever Elite League point with a 3-2 shootout loss to the Stingrays (highlights above).

(Nathan Salem image reproduced by kind permission of David Morrison Photography)

The Legend of Sir Tony

2011-10-03T00:25:00.005+01:00

Tony Hand – legend. No doubt most of you will be thinking that status is reserved for a select few.

Muhammad Ali? He’s a legend. Sir Bobby Charlton? He’s another one. But Tony Hand? Let me explain.

After thirty British Hockey League/Elite Ice Hockey League seasons, most notably with Murrayfield Racers, Hand is the leading all-time scorer in the UK. He’s played in 1369 games scoring an average of a goal per game and amassed over 4000 points during his career.

In 1993/94 for the Racers he hit an incredible 222 points in 44 games and has also recorded season point totals of 216, 212, 207, 192, 185 and 164 twice. Now the 44-year old player/coach of Manchester Phoenix, he's still racking up the points – 133 - as he led the Altrincham based outfit to the 2010/11 English Premier League title.

SMARTEST

Of course, we’re not talking about the National Hockey League here, but Hand's statistics are still impressive.

Edmonton Oilers scouted him and were very impressed, drafting him in 1986. He survived a rigorous 14 day training camp despite breaking his only stick on the first day and borrowing Marty McSorley's for the rest of the time. The Oilers offered Hand a chance to further his development with Victoria in Canadian junior hockey.

Oliers’ coach Glen Sather recognised Hand’s talent, “At the training camp I could see that he had a great ability to read the ice”, he said. “He was the smartest player there other than Wayne Gretzky. He skated well. His intelligence on the ice stood out. He was a real prospect."

Hand reported to Victoria, but after scoring 4 goals and 8 points in just 3 games in the WHL, he returned to Murrayfield suffering from homesickness and exhaustion. The hectic training schedules as well as intense media interest turned Hand off his Canadian experience. Plus he was paid well to play professionally in the BHL.

The following year the Oilers offered Hand a minor league contract to play in Nova Scotia with their farm team, but again he turned down the offer. Not giving the NHL a try was something Hand admitted regretting in his autobiography, Tony Hand: A Life in British Ice Hockey. In fact he turned down big offers from clubs all across Europe to stay in Murrayfield. Yet when asked, he will always tell you it was the right decision at the time.

TAUNTED

Controversial moments have been few and far between. In 1991/92 he was banned for 8 games after a cold medicine he was using was found to contain performance enhancing drugs, while in 2003, during a crucial game against Coventry, he was taunted by a Blaze whilst in the penalty box. A fight ensued and the Scot was arrested but he was released the next day and never charged. Despite this, Hand was awarded an MBE in 2005 for his services to British ice hockey. The Queen described his profession as an ‘unusual sport’.

Hand is fiercely patriotic and represented Great Britain in six World Championships, during which time they progressed from the ‘C’ Pool of international competition to the elite ‘A’ Pool, which at the time featured the might of Canada and Russia. In 57 games for his country, Hand scored 39 goals and 61 assists for 100 points.

It wasn't until the Murrayfield Racers’ collapse in 1994 that he was finally forced to move on to play hockey. He moved to Edinburgh, Sheffield, Ayr, Dundee and Belfast before finally taking over at Manchester in 2006.

HONOURABLE

Formed in 2003, following the sad demise of Manchester Storm the year before, Phoenix struggled to make ends meet until Hand’s arrival. In 2009 they moved from the import laden Elite League to the English Premier League, finishing third in their first season before going to on to claim a first ever league title in 2010/11.

Phoenix General Manger Neil Morris was impressed enough to award Hand a deal which ties him to the club until 2015 saying, “Tony is the best signing I’ve ever made. His ability to find quality players every year never ceases to amaze me. We work well together and get on extremely well. He is an honourable, trustworthy man, a trait that is none too prevalent in modern sport.” High praise indeed.

With record season ticket sales for the new season, the Manchester public are latching onto ice hockey once again – evoking memories of the famous Manchester Storm era. With Hand at the helm exciting times lie ahead for Phoenix.

He’s been dubbed Scotland's superstar hockey player, which is a bit like describing him as America’s best cricketer.

But, and make no mistake about it, Tony Hand MBE – Sir Tony to the fans – is very much a legend.

(Image reproduced by kind permission of prohockeynews.com)

Block 12 Backcheck

2011-09-28T17:45:00.003+01:00

Played 3, Won 2, Lost 1. Not bad.

With the first month of the season done and dusted, Blackburn Hawks have achieved a 'not bad' rating. That's good then? Or not bad? Anyway...

Hawks first three fixtures were at home and hopes were high we'd get off to a flying start, but Billingham Stars rolled into town and shot that idea down in flames with a 4-3 win.

Poor finishing and inspired netminding combined to set us off on the wrong foot and mutterings about 'here we go again' could be heard in the stands. Perhaps a couple of pre-season games wouldn't have gone amiss?

Newly promoted Solihull Barons were next up and were duly despatched 7-1 with the performance and finishing much sharper.

Highlights of the evening were Rick Hughes' hat-trick (at last) and Tom King's scrap (see left) with Martin O'Brien. It's safe to say King ruled the tussle (don't you just love a good cliche?).

Sheffield Spartans, who always seem to give us a game, completed the homestand and though Hawks scraped a 4-2 win we were far from convincing.

Not bad indeed.

Probably a better measure of how the season will pan out will come from the road trips to Trafford Metros and Whitley Warriors.

The squad does seem stronger than last time - the loss of top scorer Dave Meikle is a blow - but there's more strength on 'D' and new forward Jordan Bannon looks an exciting prospect.

It's also good to see the Aaron Davies (pictured), Sam Dunford and Matt Viney line re-united once again.

If there's one area which may be a problem it's the lack of an out-and-out goalscorer.

Meikle regularly weighed in with a decent tally, while it's fair to say former Hawk Rick Bentham would be welcomed back by many. Having said that, despite grabbing the winner for Invicta Dynamos against Wightlink Raiders, our old friend also managed to get ejected from a heavy defeat to Chelmsford Chieftains so perhaps the learning process still has a way to go...

Latvian import Elvis Veldze trained with the Hawks but couldn't agree terms - apparently he'd mistaken the new management committee for a bottomless cash pit. Strangely he then pitched up with ENL2 new-boys Fylde Flyers - maybe Sheikh Hamdam Bin Loaded is a benefactor?

With Solway Sharks also boasting some expensive (allegedly) firepower in Adam Reynolds and Nathan Salem, some clubs in ENL2 may need to invest in a few extra bulbs for their scoreboards.

But up in ENL1 land things are not bad so far - could this be the year the Hawks finally fulfil their potential? Here's hoping...

Ice Hockey - UK Round-up (from Blackburn Hawks match programme 25/09/11)

2011-09-21T12:06:00.024+01:00

Trafford Metros are the surprise early leaders in ENL1 North. Goals from Jamie Rogerson, Josh Ward and Ciaran Long secured a narrow 3-2 win against Telford Titans and the Metros retained their unbeaten record with a 7-2 success at Nottingham Lions – forward Ollie Bayne scored twice. Telford are second following a pair of 7-4 victories. Paul Rigby hit a hat-trick and Karol Jets (above right) grabbed two as they defeated reigning champions Whitley Warriors, and Jets repeated the feat against Solihull Barons.

Billingham Stars are third, but had to come from behind to beat Coventry Blaze in their first game back at the newly refurbished Billingham Ice Arena. Aidan Mahmud gave the visitors an early lead but goals from James Udell and Adam Robinson keeps the Stars unbeaten. Nottingham sit in fourth after a 4-1 win over fifth placed Coventry. Rick Hughes (above) bagged a hat-trick as Blackburn Hawks beat Solihull 7-1 while Callum Watson also hit three for Whitley as they defeated Sheffield Spartans 6-2. The Spartans are yet to register a victory as they also fell 4-0 to Coventry.

PROVED

Solway Sharks lead the way in ENL2 North after winning four on the spin. The Dumfries outfit secured easy home victories against Sheffield Senators (11-0) and Bradford Bulldogs (9-1) and proved their title credentials in emphatic fashion on the road. Flintshire Freeze were thumped 16-1 with Bob Chalmers, Struan Tonner and Nathan Salem all hitting hat-tricks. Salem then grabbed four in a 20-0 rout at Lancashire Raptors with Adam Reynolds (below) and Mark Gallagher grabbing three each. Sutton Sting also boast a 100% record following wins against Hull Stingrays (9-6), Bradford (8-5) and Flintshire (10-3) while new-boys Fylde Flyers began with a 4-0 success over the Raptors.

COMFORTABLE

Wightlink Raiders began the defence of their ENL1 South crown away to Bracknell Hornets and edged a tight contest 5-3. They followed up with a 14-0 home thrashing of Streatham Redskins and an impressive 8-4 road win at Bristol Pitbulls. Romford Raiders are the only other unbeaten team following comfortable victories over Slough Jets (6-2), Bristol (7-2) and Oxford Stars (7-1). Chelmsford Chieftains recovered from their shock opening day draw with Oxford to record three wins on the bounce. A difficult trip to Cardiff Devils resulted in a thrilling 5-4 success and they followed up with resounding 8-2 victories over Bracknell and title rivals Invicta Dynamos.

PERFECT

Belfast Giants lead the Elite League with three teams locked together just a point behind. Unbeaten Nottingham Panthers head the chasing pack following victories over Edinburgh Captials (twice) and Fife Flyers while Coventry Blaze have also made a perfect start. Sheffield Steelers complete the trio after securing home and away wins over Cardiff Devils.

(Karol Jets image reproduced by kind permission of Shropshire Star. Adam Reynolds image by David Morrison Photography)

Ice Hockey - UK Round-up (from Blackburn Hawks match programme 11/09/11)

2011-09-07T12:12:00.012+01:00

Billingham Stars made a triumphant return to the ENL North with a 4-3 victory over Blackburn Hawks. Richie Thornton set Stars on their way with a goal after just twelve seconds and further strikes from Adam Robinson, Ben Davison and Anthony Price secured the points in front of a bumper crowd at Blackburn Arena.

Trafford Metros began their campaign with a pair of victories over Nottingham Lions and Solihull Barons. Metros iced two players from Manchester Phoenix EPL team in the shape of Ciaran Long and Josh Ward and the move paid dividends as both hit the target in a 5-3 home win over the Lions. Long completed a successful weekend by grabbing a hat-trick as the Metros won 7-2 in Solihull.

Nottingham recovered from their defeat in Altrincham as they overcame Sheffield Spartans 5-3. The Lions trailed 3-2 at the end of the second period but hit three unanswered goals in the third to notch their first points of the season. Lions’ Chris Colegate led the scoring with a hat-trick.

Telford Titans and Coventry Blaze (see above) drew 6-6 at Telford Ice Rink. Telford’s Karol Jets and Ryan Stanton both scored twice while Tom Ledgard and Rhys McWilliams matched the feat for Blaze.

STUNNED

The Northern Cup swung into action with new-boys Solway Sharks facing ENL champions Whitley Warriors in a double-header. Sharks stunned the Warriors with a thumping 7-1 win at Dumfries Ice Bowl – former Warriors Adam Reynolds (2) and Nathan Salem both got on the score sheet. Whitley gained revenge on home ice edging home 4-3 with Callum Watson bagging a couple for the Warriors.

ENL South title favourites Chelmsford Chieftains were surprisingly held 1-1 at home by Oxford Stars. Invicta Dynamos and Slough Jets started with a pair of win, while Romford Raiders beat MK Thunder 7-0 with Anthony Leone notching a hat-trick.

Elite League champions Sheffield Steelers started the defence of their crown with a 2-1 overtime win over Belfast Giants. The only other fixture saw Nottingham Panthers cruise past Cardiff Devils 6-1 - David-Alexandre Beauregard hit a hat-trick.

ENL North - Preview 2011/2012

2011-09-03T14:51:00.003+01:00

The ENL Division One title race promises to be one of the most exciting for years with a number of teams expected to challenge for the crown.

Reigning champions Whitley Warriors will be gunning to make it three in a row but new coach, Garry Dowd, has had a hectic summer assembling his squad. Ace marksman Adam Reynolds left for Solway, netminder James Flavell returned to Billingham while Karl Culley retired. Dowd signed former Hull Stingrays stopper Andrew Jaszczjk to replace Flavell and ex-Billingham defensive duo Phillip and Steve Prichard have moved to Hillheads. Former captain Bryan Dunn has been coaxed out of retirement and Rob Wilson returns after a spell with Newcastle Vipers.

IMPRESSIVE

After a two year absence a new look Billingham Stars take their place in the ENL. Their roster features a number of former Bombers along with players from last season’s Northern Stars team. Richie and Andy Thornton and Paul Windridge joined Flavell to return to the club, with Stars’ regulars Alex Lawson, James McCabe and Anthony Price adding depth to what looks an impressive squad.

Nottingham Lions and Coventry Blaze finished second and third last term and both have had a quiet summer. The Lions have lost top point scorers Tom Soar and Callum Bowley to EPL’s Telford Tigers and will be hoping to uncover some more hidden gems from their renowned junior set-up. Coventry coach Reg Wilcox has retained the bulk of his squad and will look to top scorer Rhys McWilliams to lead the way again.

SUSTAINED

Blackburn Hawks ended last season in fine form and player/coach Jared Owen looks to have assembled a squad capable of mounting a sustained challenge. The loss of top scorer Dave Meikle is a blow but Owen has added ex-Trafford Metros pair Brian Worrall and Jordan Bannon to boost forward numbers. Rugged defender Scott Glover has joined from Sheffield Spartans and with Rick Hughes and Aaron Davies in their ranks the Hawks should at least make the play-offs.

Sheffield Spartans finished a disappointing fifth last time around. Glover’s move to Blackburn along with the loss of forwards Chris Turner and Richie Oliver has left the Yorkshire outfit relying on youth. GB18’s forward Elliott Knell gained EPL experience with Sheffield Steeldogs last season and Spartans will hope he continues his development this term.

PROLIFIC

Making up the division are Trafford Metros, Telford Titans and newly-promoted Solihull Barons. The loss of Worrall and Bannon to Blackburn may prove costly to the Metros, while Telford will look to experienced defenceman Ashley Stanton and forward Karol Jets to keep the Titans out of trouble. Solihull’s star forward Dean Tonks has moved to New Zealand but the prolific Erik Bakalar, Rob Eley and Richard Slater have signed again to leave the Barons hoping they can prove to be the surprise package.

SHOCK

Division Two has a new addition to its ranks after Solway Sharks were voted into the league.

The Sharks have moved from the now defunct Northern League and are expected to prove unstoppable in their quest for promotion. Adam Reynolds’ surprise switch from Whitley was trumped by the shock signing of Nathan Salem. The GB20’s forward has recently featured for Newcastle Vipers and Edinburgh Capitals in the Elite League and, along with Reynolds, is expected to rack up huge numbers in ENL2.

Expected to challenge Solway are Flintshire Freeze and Sutton Sting. Flintshire’s Chris Jones grabbed over sixty points last season and with James Parsons in tandem with Jones, Freeze will be hoping to shock the Sharks. Sutton have appointed the experienced Jon Rowbotham to their coaching ranks and with the likes of former EPL stalwart John Goodman captaining the team, Sting will aim to push the Sharks to the wire.