Exit Gerad Adams, Enter Paul Thompson

Article was written by Mark Duell (@hockeybhoy)

This morning Sheffield Steelers announced their successor to Gerad Adams who was shown the door last Monday. The new man at the helm is none other than former Coventry Blaze and Great Britain Head Coach Paul Thompson. After period of two seasons away from these native shores, more recently in Denmark with Aalborg Pirates, PT returns with a mission in place to make the Steelers the biggest team in the country in every which shape of form. 

 

Tony Smith has put his trust in the Singapore born man, and whilst some are still sceptical and upset over the Adams sacking, we believe as one here at FSB Towers that Smith has got the right bloke for the job in hand. Let us tell you why...

 

 

1. It's not all about being the Head Coach: Thompson is not just our new Head Coach, he's the General Manager too. He's in fact the man calling all the shots on and off the ice for Tony Smith which fits in perfectly with the direction that Tony wants to steer the Steelers towards. Paul will have full control of what happens in and outside team affairs a bit like what Gary Moron does at the NIC except that Moron isn't a coach; his puppet Neilson takes care of that for him. Having done something similar at Blaze before, Thommo knows what his remit is here. We trust him implicitly.

2. Experience: And bags of it! Paul Thompson began coaching in 1994-95, 20 seasons ago, with Solihull Knights and he wasn't even 30 then. He became Coventry head coach in 1996 when they were still known as Solihull Blaze and stayed with them right up to the end of the 2013 season when he took a step back and handed the reigns to the ill fated Mathias Söderstrom. Spells in Sweden with Troja-Ljungby (Dowdy's old team) and Denmark with Aalborg (Jody Lehman played there) have enhanced his knowledge of the game.

Oh, and he was GB Head Coach for five seasons until IHUK decided to let him walk out voluntarily. That's a pretty decent coaching CV if there ever was one. Some NHL coaches don't last that long.

3. A born winner: Whilst G has just a Challenge Cup, a Play-Off and a League title to his name - Paul Thompson has silverware coming out of his ears. Four, yes FOUR, Elite League titles which no other Elite League coach can boast he has. A BNL title, a Challenge Cup, two British Knockout Cups and an Elite League Play-Off win. That alone speaks volumes about him. A Grand Slam in 2005, and a proper one at that. If that isn't good enough, then what actually is. Sure his final years in the West Midlands were blanks but hey ho.

In addition, he won Coach of the Year no less than 3 times. Not bad, eh?

 

They are just three reasons why we think he is the perfect fit for us. Can you argue with them now? I (Mark) think you will be hard pressed to find anything against it. The GB lads will know his coaching methods and how good he is. If there had been no Paul Thompson, there would have been no Jody Lehman after it was Thommo who brought the North Battleford native to these shores in 2002. And we all know about him....

Let's get behind Thommo the Steelers way and make him welcome. We're sure this appointment is a good one.

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5 Things We Learnt - Belfast Giants

Thank you to Tony for his contribution to FSB, All Credit for this piece goes to him so any queries you can contact Tony on Twitter @DISGU15ED

As it's close season how about changing 'five things we learnt' to cover each EIHL team's story from last year?

Let's go alphabetically starting with the Giants ;)

1> Bringing back the same 'on-ice' team - the 13/14 Giants team took everyone to the cleaners in the league the previous year, so bringing back all but three of the key men should have made them the bellwether for others to be judged against. Gather more points than that team and you'd win the league we thought - so a bit of a shocker that 4 teams did just that.

2> Losing the 'off-ice' team - with hindsight, I'm pretty sure that Paul Adey should have been the first contract to be renewed. You'd need to be a complete plonker to bin your coach after winning the league, even if he didn't deliver the cup and playoff trophies you craved. Can't see anyone else making that mistake again.....

3> Take your mid season recruit straight from the NHL - sounds good in theory, except when you delay your final import recruitment until after a gap has appeared at the top of the table, and your Stanley Cup winning recruit is as big a bust as Kevin Westgarth. Massive LA Kings to Belfast Giants healthy scratch fall from grace.

4> Continental Cup - after failing to get ice-time for the CHL, and after being a little fortunate to get through the quarter finals in Fischtown, where they were lucky losers. Their departure from the Semifinal group after the final game went to the exact 4:3 score that would deny them, and allow the two teams facing each other to get through, was more than Fischy.

5> British net-minders - maybe this was the year when Bowns became the British number one, but it was also the year that Murph proved how much he was worth to the Giants. His injury was pivotal, and although Chubak seemed an able replacement, the odd game stolen here and there may have prevented the wheels falling off.

Final talking point - Remember when Colby Cohen was slashed to the ground, and then kicked out at Brookwell's knee with his skate? Think he was lucky to just get the spear and the DOPS suspension - if Keefe had been the man he had tried cut we may still be picking bits of him off the NIC ice pad.

Favourite player : Ray Sawada. Goals in the NHL, AHL & Liiga. Yes please.

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The Duell Report - Dissecting Tony's interview and the departure of G

I was about to go for lunch on Monday when Mitch at work dropped me a work message. "Mark, have you seen the news?" was his opening gambit. Of course I hadn't so I told him firmly in the negative. Then he sent me the link. I was like er, what the heck? In fact, I spent my lunch break wondering what I had just read and trying to make head or tail of sense of it. Then the more I thought about it, the pieces started to click and they definitely started to emerge in a clearer picture once I heard Tony's interview on BBC Radio Sheffield.

The decision has split a number of us, and that's to be expected. Let's try to explain why I think this is the right way forward. My thoughts won't please you all, but then again this is my view from my soapbox. I give you two reasons off the top of my head, but we all know there could be more.

Reason number 1: Results and Performance

Yes we won the Elite League for the first time in 4 seasons, but by gosh we were very fortunate to do so. Nobody should go and win this with 13 losses on their record; to win the league with 74 points and that amount of regulation defeats shows how bad the league was. Everyone had a freak result or two in their record and although some say it proved how competitive the EIHL was: I digress. I mean come on, Hull winning 6-1 in the NIC? That's a prime example of a freak result.

G also was out thought on numerous occasions by opposing coaches, and when you struggle to find a Plan B then it reflects in a bad performance. Two of these notable occasions came in two massive games, namely the Challenge Cup and Play-Off Finals. For 40 minutes in both games, we were given a lesson on how to play from start to finish. We had to play desperate hockey to catch up, and in both cases - fell short.

Reason number 2: The impending Under 20 team

Tony cited this has something that is happening soon, and that the job of Sheffield Steelers Head Coach has expanded beyond the original remit which G was appointed on. He feels G cannot take the team further based on the abilities he has and what Tony wants. I foresee that the new coach will probably have to have a great background in developing promising talents and making them better hockey players. So who does this mean? It's certainly not going to be Peter Russell; the GB coach; as Tony has ruled him out already. Could it be a return to the Elite for Paul Thompson? That's an interesting thought. Guess he'd have to sever his Coventry ties completely if he was appointed.

Or is it someone else? We will know before the Champions Hockey League draw takes place in Prague on 13 May. One thing I ask of you all: we have to stick together through this latest decision, and give whoever succeeds G - our backing.

Another couple of things that struck me listening to the interview was the subject of the Steeldogs connection and the steps back and forward comment. I guess I wasn't alone with this. Looking at both objectively, it seems like Tony has a plan in mind to make Sheffield the new hotbed of hockey talent. Yeah the first announcement was met with some derision from current Dogs fans on Facebook. One claimed this: "Yawn, heard it all before. Seriously would be a good idea, but would have been a good idea for the last 10 years. Still waiting." whilst another said: "They want EVERYTHING and they want it NOW!!!"

Jesus, what are they on? All Tony is wanting for Sheffield hockey to be united under one umbrella instead of the split which currently exists. We're not wanting you to turn your back on the Dogs; if you want to watch them then that's your choice but wouldn't it be good to have a bit of continuity like they do down the road from juniors to semi-pro to full time pros? That's what I reckon Tony's after. Is that too hard to stomach? I don't think it is.

Finally, the "We might have in fairness have to take one or steps back to take three or four forward" comment. This strikes me that Tony is prepared to see the new plan be a work in progress and isn't a quick fix process. After Gerad did admit after the Final that in his eyes we had "overachieved" in 2015; and the League title was a surprise when considering the last 6 weeks of the season, we played two imports down. Do you remember that? Next season I can see being a bit of transition year especially with the CHL happening too. But then again who can predict what will happen next? Nobody has all the answers, not even Tony, so just swallow your pride and keep supporting the team (whoever is in it). That's what I am doing, are you?

See you in a few weeks. Time Out called!


Mark

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The alternative EIHL awards show 2015

We've had the Ice Hockey UK Journalists awards, and also the Official EIHL ones too. But who's gonna win the most prestigious ones around, the FSB alternative end of season awards. Time to put on that tuxedo, fasten the bow tie and announce the winners. Ladies, it's time for you to dig out that smart dress you only wear once a year in your case. Who's going to be the winners for 2015? Time to find out then....

The Bawbag of the season (as inspired by our good friend Caps Banter Army): Only one winner here, step forward Mr Joseph Grimaldi formerly of Edinburgh Capitals. Not only did you jab a fellow hockey player in the nuts, you dropped the mitts before launching your helmet in his face then setting about him. Shocking behaviour, ultimate bawbaggery.

The Most Biased award for services to hockey egos: Just for his "commentary" skills alone, the winner is none other than GM the GM. The man sounds like a manic depressive in his commentaries and never seems to give the Panthers opponents any due credit. With an ego this big, it's amazing how it can fit through the doors of the NIC.

Comedy gold tantrum of the year: Skate forward Brian Stewart of Coventry Blaze. Although you're a bloody good goalie, you certainly know how to chuck your teddies out of your pram when things don't go to plan. Your little rant after Steelers first goal in the POF was wonderful, perhaps if you had not bothered chasing after your stick then you might have saved that effort.

Biggest whine of the season: It's an award for the other ego in Nottingham here, Mr Corey Neilson. Not only does he see his Panthers side lose to every single Gardiner Conference side at least once this season, he blames the Conference system for it. Buck stops with you Corey, you are the coach. Deal with it.

The Paul Gascoigne I'm gonna burst out into tears at any moment Memorial Award: Has to go to our favourite meerkat himself, Robert Farmer. Interviewed by GM by GM after the semi-final second leg in the Challenge Cup, poor Rob was inconsolable. He somehow held it together but you could tell how upset he was. We wonder if mummy gave him a few hugs when he got home.

Beard of the season: Skating forward to receive this award is none other Steelers very own Mathieu Roy, what a beard. I bet even David Beckham never had a beard so perfect as this one. Special mention though to Matt Nickerson of Fife who gets an acknowledgement for growing the most stupid one around, it made him look an absolute dingleberry.

Best Import of the season (forward, defence or goalie): Runaway winner here everybody, and it's a second award for Mathieu Roy. What Norway missed out on, Sheffield and the EIHL won hands down with it. An 101 point dèbut season for the man from Amos, Quebec. And guess what, he's here for two more seasons. Defences best be ready, this man is capable of even better.

Best British players (defence and forward): Some tough decision making here, and we are going to go with the following. In defence, we've selected Ben O'Connor of Sheffield - an offensive defenceman who is as good as any import in the same position. Although we like the look of Zach Sullivan of Braehead, this kid has a big future and will improve year on year if coached correctly. For the forward, we're choosing Ben Davies of Braehead. Few thought he would make such a great impact in Braehead after all those years in Cardiff, but he did. Robert Farmer is the runner-up for being an absolute irritant but being good at it.

Unsung hero of the season: Bit of a surprise this one to most, but it wasn't to Steelers coach Gerad Adams as he chose this man as his player of the season. Step forward Phil Hill. The Cardiff native goes mostly under the radar when looking at Steelers championship winning squad, but puts himself about every shift he does. Great on the PK, one can wonder what else he wants to achieve now he's got the full set of Challenge Cup (achieved in 2006 with Cardiff) and the Play-Offs and League title in the last two seasons.

Lookalike of the season: Couldn't split this one, it is shared between two of Corey Neilson's Brits. To rapturous applause we award it to Aleksandr Orlov and Daniel Bryan. Yes a meerkat and a WWE "wrestler" no less. Actually to give them their real identities, Robert Farmer and Jonathan Boxill. Take a closer inspection and you will see why. In the words of Bryan Danielson's alter ego: "Yes, yes, yes!"

Self destruction event of the season: It has to be Cardiff Devils for their final 10 minutes of action at the House of Steel on 11 March 2015. From having no penalties called on them in the first 50 minutes of what was an absolute hammering it has to be said, Devils pressed the self destruction button firmly and lost their collective marbles. Three players ejected, of which DOPS took no action, and 100 minutes clocked in that mad spell. Crazy....

Coach of the season: We know that Andrew Lord did alright as a rookie player/coach but he ain't getting our award. Neither is Finner as he presided over a collapse that would be featured on "British Greatest Sporting Tragedies" if they ever made such a programme. No, it's only right to give to the coach of the Elite League Champions. Why would you give to someone who didn't get the big prize. It goes to G, that's all that needs saying.

The Quack Quack Oops Flop of the season: When he left the Most Versatile Arena for the Sky Dome, everyone expected Jeremiè Tendler to take his goalscoring talents there. However, bar a few games Mr Tendler has been doing a great impression of the invisible man. Many times he has been on the periphery, and a total of just 18 goals in 59 games (including play-offs) is testament to what a bad season the Viceroy native had in front of goal. There were signs in the POF that he was back to his best but one can only wonder will Chuck Weber give him another chance. Personally, I think leaving Hull was the biggest mistake Jeremiè made.

and finally, the Team Of The Season: Some good contenders here in every position so that's why we have picked a first all-star team and a second all-star team. Do you agree, what's your team(s) if you don't? Here goes:

First All Star Team:

Brian Stewart (Coventry Blaze)

Ben O'Connor (Sheffield Steelers)     Josh Batch (Cardiff Devils)

Leigh Salters (Braehead Clan)   Joey Martin (Cardiff Devils)    Mathieu Roy (Sheffield Steelers)

Second All Star Team:

Kyle Jones (Braehead Clan)

Cullen Eddy (Sheffield Steelers)    Tyson Marsh (Cardiff Devils)

Chris Lawrence (Nottingham Panthers)   Mike Forney (Sheffield Steelers)   Stefan Meyer (Braehead Clan)  

And that is that! Hope you enjoyed the 2014-15 season, we'll be back again ahead of the Champions Hockey League. See you later hockey fans...

Mark

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5 Things We Learnt - Season Review

Thank you to Tony for his contribution to FSB, All Credit for this piece goes to him so any queries you can contact Tony on Twitter @DISGU15ED

Ready for another top five hockey things? This one's a bit indulgent, as here's my personal favourite live hockey moments from 2014-2015.

1> 21 March - The Championship game. One that we can all remember for years to come. Devils go ahead early, and we're all getting desperate to get back in the game and to toss our teddies. Dowdy steps up with a sharp one, and then Jeff Legue gets the Championship winning goal and the building erupts. Lifting the trophy at home - against this seasons main rivals - remembering missing family members - screaming yourselves silly - it doesn't get any better.

2> 25 February - The Challenge Cup final. A favourite moment even thought we lost. The second best atmosphere of the year, when the constant singing of the travelling Red Army brought the best out of the home crowd. An extra Steelers goal would have improved matters even further!

3> 20 February - Koln v Hamburg. My first experience of the DEL. The 12,000 crowd was a disappointing number for them, but awesome for us. An atmosphere more akin to football from the 90's, largely dominated by blokes singing, waving flags and scarfs in the standing ends - just less fighting and nicer food during the breaks.

4> 16/17 February - Tomo Testimonial. The start of a great couple of hockey weeks. The players speeches at the roast were often hilarious, especially Danny Meyers, and through Randy Dagenais showed the best of our Steelers family. The testimonial game was played in a great spirit, making it a fun event, and breaking it up with a skill comp was a great idea.

5>  24 August - CHL Lulea v Nottingham. A three game stanza at the NIC cheering on the Panthers was a surprising start to 2014/2015. After seeing Lukko and Lulea we knew that we had seen the best hockey we would see all year, and after seeing the Panthers beat Hamburg we hoped they had seen their best game too! We did stand out a little in our Orange shirts, but it was mainly friendly banter, and added a certain something.

There have been so many great Steelers games this year, so it's hard to single any out (especially as I wasn't at the NIC for the Gospel inspired CC QF comeback which will be a favourite for many, nor at the POF's) but if I chose one how about October 4th when Fretter, Forney, Roy and Mosienko introduced themselves by each scoring in a home win against the Panthers - I promise I cheered louder for that than I did for the CHL games!

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Always look on the bright side...

...it could be Nottingham as the chant rings out. Once again the end of another Steelers season and we finish with a trophy, I'll take that. Sure we came up short in the Play-Off Final against a Blaze side that just oozed confidence and took their chances when they got them, but hey we won the big prize didn't we? If you had told me that we would have had the season we ended up with in late January when we lost Frank Doyle, I would have metaphorically bitten your hand off and giggled uncontrollably in your face too!

It's not been that bad. So instead of boring all and sundry with assessments of the players that iced for us, I'll do by position and write a paragraph or two about them. 

Netminders: This season we used five netminders, which for an EIHL season is absolutely mental. We started with Frank, Geoff and Andy and in everything looked good in that respect. The timing of Frank's injury came at the wrong moment, Geoff injured too, and the team in disjointed form. Frank had been, at up to that time, consistently keeping us in games and giving those in front a chance to get the W. But along came Josh, how we managed to find him I don't know but he was a cracking acquistion. Sure he didn't have the best of games in the POF, but neither did some others, but he really proved G's trust in him on many occasions.

Sam Gospel, the one game wonder, is surely destined for bigger and better things I am sure. He could be the new Ben Bowns given time to develop. As for "Swinton Andy", he's just one who turns up and is prepared to play second (or in effect third) fiddle to those ahead of him in the pecking order. He's the archetypal clubman who just is there for when the team wants him even though he knows his chances are limited to slim or none. Geoff was just damn unlucky with injuries again, it makes you wonder did he run over a proverbial black cat again.

Summarising then: Doyle - He's gone as retired, but leaves us with many great memories. Unice - Retain unless G can find a Brian Stewart type goalie as an alternative. Woolhouse - Might have to retire due to consistent injuries over the last two seasons but will be always be welcomed back if he wants it (Geoff gets married in the summer and that might have a bearing on what he does next). Gospel - The Future, deserves a shot to be an EPL starter and one to keep a close eye in his development. Jaszczyk - Third choice again if best, but needs serious ice time elsewhere at a lower level.

Defencemen: Seven players used in the six slots this season, and each of them different in their own way of players. From the attacking flair of Ben O'Connor acting like a fourth forward to the coolness of the experienced Darrell Hay, we got it all. Still even at play-off weekend, I could hear people mumbling why did we sign Ben O'Connor. Crikey, the guy is as good as signing an import offensive signing, and he wants to play for his "club" that he has supported since he was a bairn. 

Cullen Eddy excites me, and for someone who was just a stay at home defenceman in the AHL, he's developed his game all round but just needs to eliminate the minor mistakes that keep happening from time to time (same applies for Ben). Mark Thomas has had a steady season as has Rod Sarich, remember both had a few injuries (Rod's kept him for a whole season). Gord Baldwin made improvements, and chipped in with timely goals when needed whilst Dustin Kohn was useful when he was fit but you could see how nervous he was in taking hits off the opposition.

In summary: O'Connor - He's staying having signed a deal that keeps him here until 2017, just needs to iron out the defensive aspect of his game which leaves him exposed at times . Eddy - Year two of his deal, he is very much in the Fata mould and I can see him having an even better campaign next time out. Hay - Brings experience and calmness in defence, goes very much unnoticed every night. I'd have him back if he fancies another year here. Thomas - The mistake that led to Blaze's third goal was the only real blot on a decent season for the Stockport-born blueliner, if he gets a new deal then it'll only be a single year one before he probably finishes his career in the EPL.

Sarich - Like O'Connor, some people doubt him but Rod's had a decent season even if he is not as offensive as he used to be like back in the day. His versatility and he can be one of our two dual nationals next season counts as a return for me. Baldwin - Improved immensely, and would be a decent fit again even if his Uni deal is up. I see him going back into Europe however. Kohn - We never really saw the best of the former New York Islander because he was susceptible to injury. Like Baldwin, his Uni deal is now up and I can see him going home to finish his career in the ECHL or CHL.

Forwards: This was the section that G radically overhauled after the play-off triumph, only the Brit core survived. Jeff Legue left for the EPL but came back after 3 months away to become a handy import third line centreman. As is the G way, he somehow finds gems where others struggle. After he had seen a move to Norway fall by the wayside, Mathieu Roy found his way into Sheffield and what a signing he has proven to be. 101 points in a season, a figure only bettered in the EIHL by Jade Galbraith in his inaugural Braehead campaign (Galbraith got 104 in 2011-12): a sign of a quality player indeed. Roy brings the complete package to the table. Also coming in were proven two way forward Colton Fretter and sniper Mike Forney, both continued to put up impressive numbers in their respective campaigns.

Tyler Mosienko arrived in the House of Steel with a point to prove, after leaving Denmark under a cloud of controversy. The reason behind it was well documented and opposing fans latched onto it but Mosi wowed us with consistent performances where he showed up every single night. Could this love from the Steelers "family" cause him to return next campaign. Tomas Petruska was doing alright until injury curtailed his season after coming in as a late replacement for Danny Bois who had flattered to deceive. Bois himself was a replacement import, coming in after the desperately unlucky Pascal Morency was forced into retirement after recurring concussions. We do also thank Devin Didiomete for his short stint when Tyler was suspended.

As for the Brits, each of them did contribute in their own way. Jono Phillips led by example and scarcely had an off night. What he does not pick up in terms of points, is far outweighed by his work ethic. Which is the same for his fellow Welshman Phil Hill. Jason Hewitt seems to be getting his game back after a few below par seasons, and has deserved his testimonial next campaign whilst Luke Ferrara looks a decent player who will set the league alight in years to come. This leaves me with Dowdy. Despite a hand injury which sidelined him for a while, Robert really came to the fore as the season drew to a conclusion: scoring many clutch goals and outlining why he is the Club's Premier British forward.

To summarise: Roy - What a player, so happy we've kept him for 2 further seasons. I'm sure the European Leagues would have snapped him up if he hadn't. Fretter - He's back too on the second of his two year deal, experienced two way forward who will put better numbers next (even though these aren't bad) season. Forney - Could score 60 goals if he takes more of his chances, so I'd retain him but on flip side think he'll play in somewhere like Sweden or Italy. Legue - Another returnee (to some people's disdain) and will be our second dual national I believe now. Experienced third liner now, always capable of important goals (he won us the league remember?) and will rack a few more before he retires.

Mosienko - We need to bring this guy back too, no question! His work ethic is unbelievable, love it. He must stay. Petruska - If he's fit and G wants him, then OK but I am sure we could upgrade on him though. Phillips - Captain Fantastic in my eyes. Always shows up every night and leads by example, so that's a yes. Hill - Maybe, because he's a great penalty killer but time is not on his side now. He's won a League title and been a Play-Off Champ with us but I wonder what his plans are. Hewitt - Showed a lot of signs that the old Hewy was returning, maybe give him a one year deal to tie in with his testimonial then re-assess. Ferrara - If this kid thinks he's done with EPL, give him a contract with us. Already shown more than enough to say he's got what it takes. Dowd - Already returning (which will please Mam), If he plays like he did in the stretch, could be a record points season for him.

-------------------------------------

So that's the team summarised by position. What in closing, did I think of the season as a general rule of thumb? It was a typical Steelers season to be honest, with many peaks and troughs. Doyle's injury threatened to derail us completely but Unice proved a good replacement. Yes we won the league the hard way, but sometimes you have to do it like that. The Challenge Cup still eludes us, but we made strides in that. As regards Play-Offs, I think we were running on empty come the Final as far as I could observe. The hard fought semi against Hull really took its toll (Blaze's semi was a lot less intense) and hats off to Coventry: they fully deserved to win it with Stewart and O'Marra outstanding.

I'll close this season review with: "WE'RE ALL GOING ON AN EUROPEAN TOUR, AN EUROPEAN TOUR, AN EUROPEAN TOUR!" (repeat continuously).....unlike Robert "The Meerkat" Farmer and the Panthers who are quite simply NOT. Coming next week, the final article of the season: "The Alternative Elite League Awards of the Season"; presented by me.

Until then it is, adios hockey fans...


Mark

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An Awkward Analysis - The End Of Season Team Analysis

So yet another ice hockey season has come to an end. It's been a season of highs and lows, both on the ice and off the ice. It's pretty much had everything. Brian Stewart's entertaining goalie tantrums, unfortunate forced retirements, DoPS-gate, THAT Joe Grimaldi incident, coach changes, delayed TV games, fan unity, unexpected comebacks, over achievers, under performers and even Braehead Clan fans being the life of the party at the Playoffs this weekend.

When all was said and done though, out of five trophies/awards, all of them went to different teams and all bar one of them went down to the wire to decide. Safe to say, for one reason or another, we had our monies worth this season.

That being said, I feel that now that the season has come to an end, it's time to breakdown the Steelers team player by player and who I'd like to see stay or go. So, without wasting any more time, let's begin!

Frank Doyle - Well, what can be said? He was performing pretty solidly until his injury that forced an early end to his season. It is a real shame that it near enough looks like it is also the end of his playing career as well. If so, I'd like to wish him and his family all the best for the future. Verdict: N/A.

Josh Unice - WHERE THE CHUFF DID HE COME FROM?! Pretty much no-one had ever heard of this guy but we sure as heck know about him now. A goalie that has pretty much become a bit of a cult hero in Sheffield and deservedly so. Terrific performances, multiple shutouts, stunning saves and near enough being the reason why we still had a shot at the league title in the last game of the season because of THAT overtime save in Nottingham. He is signed to go and play in the AIHL during our Summer, which would pretty much rule him out for the CHL. That being said, I don't see why we can't sign a high profile enough goalie for the CHL games while Josh is experiencing Australia. It will be interesting to see how Gerad approachs this slight predicament. Verdict: Stay.

Geoff Woolhouse - Yet again caught by the injury bug after working so hard to regain fitness. There isn't a lot that can really be said unfortunately. We know what he is capable of, but I think the injuries are starting to mount up. Verdict: Let go.

Andy Jaszczyk - Made one or two appearances over the course of the season. Did well in his part game shutout earlier on. Has filled in nicely as the bench door guy behind Doyle/Unice. Also didn't end up in the back of an ambulance this year either. Progress! Verdict: Stay (3rd choice goalie).

Sam Gospel - This kid made believers out of us and with his unforgettable performance in Nottingham could well have made believers out of the rest of the team. From that one game, the team never looked back and hunted down that league title. This kid has some serious potential. I hope no-one signs him as a back up for next year as that will drastically hinder his growth. The kid needs and deserves a number one EPL job. I hope he gets it. I really do. Verdict: One for the future.

Gord Baldwin - BAMBI! Well, he started this season the way he ended the last one. Really solid play and was also using his size a lot more to clear the crease and bully people about. He was also hitting more often as well. I really liked what I was seeing this year from him. Sadly though, he is another that had his season cut short due to injury and I think the team was worse off as a result. He is also at the end of his 2 year university deal, but I'd like to see us try and retain his services. Verdict: Stay.

Cullen Eddy - The man with the backwards name. As soon as he was unveiled at the shirt launch before the start of the season, you could hear a lot of ladies jaws dislocate and hit the floor. Instant hit with the ladies and as soon as he hit the ice he was an instant hit with the fans. Hard hitting, in your face, aggressive hockey player. By no means afraid of the rough stuff and certainly one that loves to run his mouth at the opposition. He had one or two moments during the season. Odd times crossed that line once or twice, and personally I think at times his passing can let him down, but other than that, a fairly solid player, a proper hockey player. He's on a university deal so he'll be back next season, but I'd have kept him anyway. Verdict: Stay.

Rod Sarich - The old warhorse made a return this season after a year out of the game and for the most part was pretty solid. Still had he usual occasional unfortunate mishap but his ability to play anywhere really paid dividends this year with injuries and depth issues elsewhere on the team. When playing at the back, he was able to focus a bit more on the defensive side of his game, and when needed to play up front he was a force to be reckoned with, showing that there was still plenty of life left in those legs. It's been nice to watch Rod play in more of a depth/utility role this season. I'd like to see the same again next season. Verdict: Stay.

Dustin Kohn - This one really isn't easy for me to type, because what I'm about to type isn't exactly going to make for good reading for some people. I feel disappointed. I feel somewhat robbed. Over the past two seasons I feel like we've never really ever been able to see Dustin at the absolute top of his game because of injury after injury. Right as he'd start to get into the swing of things and start to play some incredible hockey, BANG, an injury. The guy clearly has some serious playing ability. His ability to skate with and without the puck is wonderful on the eyes. He reads the game incredibly well. It's just those pesky flipping injuries. It's almost become a little bit of a liability, which is a shame, a really big shame. He's at the end of his university deal (along with Baldwin) so nothing is certain for next season for him yet. Part of me wants to keep him, but the injuries make me not want to keep him. It's a tough one for me and possibly a tough one for Gerad as well. I'd like to see us give him a shot in the CHL games, because a fit and healthy Dustin Kohn is a really big asset to any team. Verdict: Stay (for CHL and see what happens afterwards).

Mark Thomas - Mr Testimonial and Mr Overtime himself. I'll be honest, I've not been his biggest fan over the past couple of seasons, but this year, I thought he upped his game at times. I think he plays his best hockey when he is using his size a lot more and plays with more of a mean streak to his game. I still don't think we see it often enough, but it's been nice to see glimpses of it at times this year. Unfortunately though, with how fast the league is starting to get, and with the speed and quality of CHL hockey at the start of next season, I think we need to alter the back end a bit, and unfortunately, Mark Thomas would be something I change about that back end. For what it's worth though, future shirt retirement? Absolutely. Verdict: A regretful leg go.

Darrell Hay - Is he on a two year deal or not? I really don't know any more, but quite frankly, who cares? I'd have him back in a heartbeat for next season. He is effectively a defensive version of Doug Sheppard. Does all the little things right. What he does goes somewhat under the radar to many people. He reads the game well. Picks his moments to jump in and out of the play and he can lay a hit or two as well. Good, solid, experienced all round player. This one is EASY. Verdict: Stay.

Ben O'Connor - Honestly, I really don't need to say a lot. Came in part way through the season and stole the show in terms of British defencemen. His offensive contributions are second to none. He has his odd moments where he tries to get too flashy and gets a little caught out of position, but overall his signing was a season changing one. Again, a very easy one, especially with him being on a multi-year deal. Verdict: Stay.

Jeff Legue - Well, who expected that 3 year deal at the Steeldogs to come to a sudden end? I sure as hell didn't. Whilst his return sparked mass debate among the fan base, and his play since has done that also, I feel that overall Jeff has contributed very nicely. Again, someone that only needed to be in a depth role, but his inclusion added an extra bit off speed and offensive to the third line. It gave the opposition something different to think about. Not only that, to be in a position where he could be used on the SECOND powerplay unit? That speaks volumes to me. Pretty sure he is staying next season anyway, but I'd have him back in this new role any day. Verdict: Stay.

Mike Forney - Earlier on in the season, despite his points output, I wasn't all that horny for Forney, and to be honest, that opinion hasn't changed much either. What I said earlier on in the season still stands. If he is back next season, fair enough, but I think he is replaceable. His constant faceoff problems and how he seemingly vanishes at times against bigger and more physical opposition just annoys me too much. Verdict: Let go.

Mathieu Roy - To quote Jono Phillips after the Challenge Cup win in Nottingham, HOLY S***BALLS! This guy is absolutely EVERYTHING I look for in a hockey player. Goals, assists, stands up for his teammates, chirps the opposition, is a pain in the arse in front of the net, blocks shots like his life depends on it and has a beard for the freakin' ages! I am seriously glad he is already signed for another two years. Verdict: Stay (forever).

Jason Hewitt - I bet a few of you have been looking forward to this one! I'll be honest, I said to Hewy's face in Braehead (when he was injured) that whilst I hadn't been his biggest fan over the previous couple of seasons, I was absolutely loving the way he had started this season and was gutted that he had got injured. Personally, I think that derailed his season for a bit, as most injuries tend to do with players, but overall, it was an improvement on previous seasons. Sure there was a few times where I publicly didn't agree with some stuff he did or didn't do this season and he rightfully called me up on it, but quite frankly, that was back then. If my years are right, next year would be his testimonial year. I'd say he's done more than enough this year to show that he can still contribute enough to warrant another contract and get his testimonial. In my opinion anyway. Verdict: Stay.

Tomas Petruska - Another player that came in part way through the season. Took him a couple of weeks to find his feet but once he got going I was becoming more and more impressed with what I saw. Unfortunately, he got injured in the Challenge Cup final and that ruled him out for the rest of the season. I'd like to see what he can do over the course of a full season. Maybe he could be the guy that replaces Forney? Verdict: Stay (if necessary).

Jono Phillips - The captain. I have only ONE issue with Jono from this season. The poor bugger just could not hit a bloody barn door. He could of had a bucket load of goals this year. Then again, he isn't signed for his goals or points production. His speed is still there, his leadership is there, his ability on the PK is there as well as putting in 100% on every shift. Pretty easy this one. Verdict: Stay.

Tyler Mosienko - The guy is something else. He really is. He and Roy have been my fave players to watch this year. Roy is already staying. I'd do whatever I could to make sure this guy stayed also. He gets absolutely everywhere on the ice and can be a real game changer. His hockey IQ is absolutely something else entirely and the way he and Dowd have played as a unit this year has been mesmerising, I fear though, those European teams will come calling back once again. Verdict: Stay (at all costs).

Phil Hill - This is another tough one for me, because I know how I'm going to end this. When he had regular ice time, he was a much needed source of energy. He came alive with the signing of Bois and we really started to see the Phil Hill of old. However, as the season wore on, I think a little bit of life was starting to leave those legs at times. He has continued to give it everything he has got shift after shift and I don't have an issue with that at all. I think he still has something to give, but maybe not so much to the Steelers. Maybe another team elsewhere in the league. His experience will help wonderfully with other younger British talent. I think we may have now seen the best of Phil Hill. Verdict: Time to move on. Let go.

Luke Ferrara - We actually saw more of Luke than what I was expecting in all honesty and I'm glad we did. He improved game on game and I'm pleased to see that his season ended on a high with Peterborough winning the EPL Playoff title. Certainly one to watch for the future. Would like to see more of him again next season. Verdict: Stay.

Colton Fretter - Yeah, this is an easy one. Bags of skill, can score and set up others. Also not afraid to play with an edge to his game. Can see why this guy has the CV he does. Very pleased with what he brought this season to the Steelers. Believe he is on a two year deal anyway. Would like to see a few more goals out of him next season. Done very well in his first EIHL season. Verdict: Stay.

Robert Dowd - Now, Dowdy was a bit of an enigma for me earlier on in the season. He was giving it absolutely everything as always, all that was missing was that scoring touch. Eventually, BANG, it was back. Scored some timely goals down the stretch, including some lovely highlight reel stuff. As the season wore on, it looked like he thought he would score every time he shot the puck. That's the real Dowdy right there, and it was really good to see. More of the same please! Verdict: Stay.

Well, there you have it folks. That's my verdict on the players of this season and who I think I'd like to see stay or go. What are your thoughts? Do you agree? Do you disagree? It'd be good to hear your thoughts and have your feedback as always.

Furthermore, it's been quite a fun experience updating you all this season. I look forward to carrying on with that next season and beyond. If you think it could be improved somehow, feel free to let me know as well.

Other than that, I hope you all have a lovely off season, and I'm sure we'll have plenty more to say once signing s are actually made.

Until next time folks!

Alan
@FrozenSteelMNL

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Play-Off Finals Weekend: The Preview

Well, here we are. The Finals weekend is upon us all and this year's Final Four are known. Going to the big end of season party are Sheffield, Hull, Coventry and Belfast. Weirdly enough, the match ups could see a repeat of last season's Final although we're sure that both the Stingrays and Blaze will have a few choice words of their own about that. Can Sheffield complete a double of League and Play-Offs for the first time since 2009?

Let's look at the semi-finals, and stick our (well, Mark's proverbial one) neck on the line and try and predict a winner. Apologies to Braehead for giving them the kiss of death as regards the League title. Obviously, we aren't that good this prediction lark.

Sheffield Steelers vs Hull Stingrays: Face Off at 1pm, 4 April 2015.

By all accounts, the Steelers should win this one comfortably being League Champions and all that. However, Hull will not read into this script that you can be assured. Steelers advanced to this stage with a nervous, it has to be said, 6-5 aggregate win over a plucky Fife Flyers team that didn't want to give in at any time: Robert Dowd's strike at 32:20 in the second leg proving decisive. The defending play-off champions are many people's favourites to record back to back triumphs.

Hull themselves inflicted one of the play-offs with an overtime aggregate win over much fancied Braehead Clan. What Stingrays lack in depth, they don't certainly lack in character and they are sure to test the Champions. In 2012, a then Derek Campbell inspired Hull shocked Steelers in a remarkable quarter-final at Ice Sheffield. Question remains as such: Surely Steelers will not fail to deliver again against their Yorkshire rivals? Nine teams hope that they will.

Verdict: Hull's two line hockey might have seen off Braehead but on the biggest ice in the country, this is going to cost them. Steelers to make the Final for the second successive season, winning by at least two clear goals and in regulation too.

Coventry Blaze vs Belfast Giants: Face Off at 5pm, 4 April 2015.  

The battle of the underdogs. Both sides had a wretched league campaign, and were expected by many that they would exit the play-offs at the quarter-final stage. Yet both bounced back and have fully deserved their spot in the finals weekend. Blaze's change of fortunes under new coach Chuck Weber has been astonishing, and many are speculating that their ousting of 2013 play-off winners Nottingham has all but sounded the death knell for Corey Neilson. The return from injury of Steven Goertzen will boost their hopes massively.

Belfast were given equally tougher assignment, facing this year's Challenge Cup winners Cardiff who almost won the league in one of the tightest finishes in recent times. A slender 1-0 win in the Odyssey did nothing but expect a Cardiff win in the return back in Fortress Big Blue Tent. Just like Hull, Giants produced one of the best performances of the season to record a 7-3 road win on the night. If they can replicate this in both the semi and the Final itself, they could be skating back to Northern Ireland with a trophy.

Verdict: This is going to be a close run affair between two sides who many thought would not be contesting the weekend's games. Personally I reckon it might have overtime and penalty shots written all over it or will be a goal fest. It certainly won't be dull. Giants to squeak through by the most slender margin possible.

So according to the oracle, we are in for a repeat of last season's Final. How will that pan out then? Before that, we will have Blaze and Hull contest the 3rd/4th place game which we expect Blaze will be comfortably victorious in. That will be more like an exhibition game than a serious encounter. So what of the Final? Just like last year, our crystal ball sees it going to overtime after a 1-1 regulation draw. Then an uncharacteristic error from Stephen Murphy will present Mathieu Roy with yet another point in a remarkable season and those in orange will go bananas again.

It probably won't turn out anything like the above, after all we know nothing about hockey according to some quarters. Our record on predictions is equally dismal, after all how many times have we predicted the first goalscorer correctly on the Match Night Show? Yeah, once. That shows how good we are at this. We do have one thing planned though, and that's to have a good time in Nottingham. See you there!

Thanks for reading guys. If you want to get involved please contact us on twitter or find us on Facebook and like us and leave a comment:-
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@TomWalkeden
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The Walkeden Review - Two More Years For Mathieu

Sheffield Steelers forward Mathieu Roy has re-signed for the Steelers

It might not have been the best day to announce this considering it was announced at 6am on the 1^st April also known as April fools and you can probably guess where it was going! Fans didn’t know whether to believe it or not or whether the club were having us on but let’s be honest if they was having us on it would be a cruel way to do it because I don’t know of one Steelers fan that isn’t glad the Roy has signed a contract extension keeping him at the club till the end of the 2016/17 season. I myself didn’t realise it was April fools and was just over joyed that the best player in the EIHL had re-signed for the Steelers.

Mathieu signed for Sheffield from the Florida Everblades last summer where he spent 5 seasons 3 of them as captain lifting silverware as their captain and he brought with him an impressive resume. He certainly showed that this season. In the regular season Roy has scored 95 points scoring 42 goals and putting up 53 assists and then only sitting 50 penalty minutes.

Roy re-signing is a massive boost especially just a few day before the playoff finals weekend, Mathieu Roy will be part of a team that will be looking to defend their league championship as well as being part of a Sheffield team taking part in the Champions Hockey League for the first time.

Going into the Finals Weekend Roy is on 98 points (post-season points added) and just two away from 100 EIHL points which will be a massive statement in just his first season and with another two to come for sure opposition teams will be hating the fact he re-signed but there is one thing for sure Mathieu will put 100% every single time he steps onto the Ice so I’m glad he’s playing for us rather than against us as Mathieu is a massive part of the Steeler family.

I'm also playing in the UK Forum All-Stars 2015 in Sheffield representing the Blue Cross for a second year in a row and any donations big or small will be appreciated and you can donate by pressing the button to the right.

Thanks for reading guys. If you want to get involved please contact us on twitter or find us on Facebook and like us and leave a comment:-

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SIHA Round-Up 28th & 29th March 2015

Thank you to Phil Holden for his contribution to FSB, All Credit for this piece goes to him so any queries you can contact Phil on Twitter @PhilSlice

Spartans put in a superb team performance to comfortably beat Sutton Sting 7-1 in their final game of the regular season to clinch the final play-off spot in Dumfries over their opponents who needed a win to overhaul Spartans into 4^th spot. Ollie Barron got Spartans off to a flyer with a goal after 7 seconds to settle the nerves but Sutton equalised through John Ross. It was a close game but some nice individual skill from Shaun Wild outsmarted the Sutton defence to fire Spartans back in front. Spartans gradually wore Sutton down in the second with two more goals, one apiece for Ollie & Will Barron to put Spartans firmly in the driving seat. The wind had clearly been knocked out of Sutton’s sails and when Jonathan Kirk fired in a brace to make it 6-1 it was basically game over. Sutton, who weren’t at their best, tried to fight their way back into the game but they were no match for a well drilled Spartans team who scored again through Nick Manning to put the game beyond the slightest doubt for a well-deserved win with a competent performance to secure 4^th spot, three points ahead of Sutton in 5^th.

Congratulations also go out to Sabres U14’s who were crowned Champions of D2 this weekend despite not having a game this weekend with results elsewhere determining that they couldn’t be topped. A fantastic achievement!

Also in action on Saturday were the Rapiers U16 D1 who thumped Kingston Hull 22-0 which sees them qualify for the National Finals and still in the hunt for top spot too.  Sticking with the U16’s, Greyhounds amazing season in D2 continued with a solid performance to grab a 3-0 road win in Nottingham.

In wasn’t such a good day on Sunday for our Junior teams in action with all of them suffering home defeats in what were crucial games. Both U12’s teams lost out with Lasers losing to title chasing rivals Bradford 8-2 in D1 whilst Swampfrogs were narrowly beaten by Coventry 4-3 in D2. Meanwhile Stormers U14’s suffered a heavy defeat at the hands of title rivals Bradford, just as the Lasers had done but the score in this was 13-4 to Bradford.

Senators certainly had a bad day at the office on Sunday, for more reasons than one when they were beaten 13-2 in Deeside by the Dragons. This was on the back of a 5-3 home win the previous night at Ice Sheffield. Sens had found themselves in front 3-0 at the end of the second but Coventry hit back to be the better team but not quite good enough to overhaul Sens who went onto win the game 5-3 and despite the fightback from Coventry, were the deserved winners on the balance of play for the full 60 minutes.

However on Sunday it was a different story in which Deeside were clearly pumped up for their final game in front of a decent sized crowd. Sens had found themselves 3-0 down at the end of the first in what was a physical encounter and although Deeside had been the better team, there had not been too much wrong with Sens performance, maybe just lacking a bit of zest in front of goal. However they were flat in the second period with a performance that did not mirror that of previous ones or indeed that of Deeside’s who put in a terrific effort to see them deservedly 7-0 in front. Things had got worse for Sens too who had lost the inspirational Josh Gent to a nasty injury, one that was overlooked by the referee who allowed play to continue for Dragons to score whilst Josh was still down and obviously in a lot of pain. Bobby Browne also picked up an injury to force him out of the game and with no back up netminder it was up to Charlie Thompson to step in and he could do very little about the 6 goals he let in. These are by no means excuses, Dragons were in top form and had dominated proceedings but Sens showed some Sheffield steel to hit back to outshoot their opponents but as was the case in the first, it wasn’t quite happening in front of goal with Sens only able to pop two in from a hatful of chances; Sergevs Jegorovs & Andy McEwan the scorers. Although a bad result, hopefully it was just a one off as Sens look forward to play-off hockey next weekend with a trip to Solihull to face Telford Tigers NIHL in the semi-finals on Sunday with a place up for grabs in the final against hosts Solihull Barrons or Widnes Wild.

Thanks for reading guys. If you want to get involved please contact us on twitter or find us on Facebook and like us and leave a comment:-

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