Big Match Preview - Coventry (Away)

Saturday night sees the Steelers travel down to the West Midlands to face the Coventry Blaze at the Sky Dome. It's safe to assume that we have had some success there in recent times and we hope this run continues. Added spice to the game is the return of Paul Thompson, albeit this time on our bench. "Thommo" spent 20 years or so there, so it will be an emotional night for him. Can we get our first win of the season there?

Helping us set the scene for the game is Blaze supporter Kat Taylor. Here's what she had to say:

FSB: How would you sum up last season for Coventry?

KT: In a word - Rollercoaster! I felt that we put on the A-game when it was crucial (playoff quarters, cup games, etc), and that if we could have maybe maintained some of that momentum season-long we could've finished a little better than we did. Still though, an entirely new season awaits!

FSB: Weber has retained a good core of last season's squad. Brian Stewart is one, can he be even better this season?

KT: Keeping Stewie for another year was a very good decision IMO. One of the best, if not THE best goalie last year. He's a fan favourite for a reason. Last season's effort will be hard to top, but I believe he can only get better - especially now he's got an Elite league season under his belt.
 

FSB: We see the evergreen that is Ashley Tait has laced up his skates for another season. Do you think this might Ash's final season before he retires?

KT: I'll be honest, I was amazed that he was still playing when I found out how old he was! I don't see why he can't continue, especially if he can carry on banging them home like he did on Sunday against Fife. If he's still competitive, and this season will tell, then I see no reason why he can't carry on.
 

FSB:  Of the new boys, which one are you looking forward to seeing play the most and why?

KT: So far I've seen some great skilful play by Lukacevic in the pre-season, as well as some rather, ahem, 'assertive' action by Valabik. At the moment I'm really liking the way Trimm is able to just ping off cracking shots too, easily making space in the centre - I would love to see him score some more pretty goals and he's therefore my favourite new player.
 

FSB: What do you think of the roster that Thommo has recruited for us this season, and are you confident the home support will give PT a warm welcome back?

KT: Oooh, that's a tricky one. You guys gave a valiant effort in the CHL, especially the game against Frolunda. I certainly wouldn't bet against you winning some silverware this year. 

With Thommo though - I wouldn't expect a cold welcome, given the success the man has brought to Blaze in times gone by. However I am not familiar with the terms he left Blaze under so couldn't give an accurate answer here.
 

FSB: Finally, who do you reckon will be the key players in this match, and what will be the final score?

KT: Key players for the Blaze will definitely include Valabik (provided he isn't banned at the time of writing), Tanaka (likes to get stuck in and go after every puck) and Stewart (Your guys will definitely test him!). I predict the game will end close but Blaze will edge it - 4:3.

Thanks to Kat for her time, we appreciate it.

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