Big Match Preview - Dundee (Home)

After the Challenge Cup exit in midweek, Steelers are back in Elite League action this weekend. Saturday sees them visit the scene of the Tuesday's nightmare, Ice Sheffield, as the Dundee Stars come visiting. Stars are coached by former Steeler Marc LeFebvre as you know and are looking to get back into a winning groove which has seen them slip down the Elite League standings.

With important points on offer in the League, it's imperative that Steelers do not lose this one. Cardiff's loss last night (Thursday) in Fife has opened the door and made the title race that bit more interesting with just a couple of points separating the Devils from ourselves; Nottingham - with a couple of matches in hand on both - lie four points adrift ready to pounce should the top two slip up at any given moment.

Whilst Stars don't have any real big names to shout home about, captain Bobby Chaumont (formerly of Braehead and Fife), forward Lou Dickenson (ex-Edinburgh), ex-Cardiff Devil Dougie Clarkson and veteran goaltender Trevor Koenig (ex-Newcastle and Coventry) are probably the names that leap out from the roster. But what LeFebvre has instilled in his team is a work ethic that is on par with others, and we know for sure that we will be in for a battle from that first puck drop.

From what we hear, Steelers will be at as full strength as they can be. That means they will be missing Colton Fretter and Rob Dowd still; but reports say these two could be back in the next couple of weeks and that must be a boost for Paul Thompson as the title race up hots up. It will be like having two new signings on the books, and Fretter's possible return leaves Thommo a decision whether to keep Conny Strömberg as an extra import or release the veteran Swede. Rather you than me Thommo is all I'm saying on that.

One thing Steelers need to do, is something that they didn't do on Tuesday - defend. This means everyone from front to the back end, and come away with some home redemption. With Cardiff having a potential home banana skin against Coventry, the teams could be just separated on regulation wins come the end of Saturday's match action. Seven matches remain for both sides, and we are now in the thick of it. Whoever retains their respective composure; is going to be the champions.

Prediction Time? Steelers will have to work hard for this one as Dundee won't roll over as much as some might think they will. I'm going for a 5-2 home win. What about you?

 

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