Steelers 2016: Player By Player (Part Two)

Here in the second part of three, we look at the forwards who adorned our colours in 2015-16. Remember, as stated in the first part, these assessments are mine alone and the comments are not meant to construed as accurate. Everybody will have differing views.

With that said again, let's look at them..

FORWARDS Pt.1 (Roy to Phillips)

Mathieu Roy – After such an incredible début season with 101 points in all competitions, everybody realistically knew that it would be phenomenal if the French-Canadian could replicate it. However, as in the case with Jade Galbraith, it was much harder as defences were more aware what damage Mathieu could cause. Missed a few games with injury but when you put your body on the line as much as he does, then that was to be equally expected. Will continue to be an impact player next season as he enters year two of current deal. A player most teams would love to have.

Tyler Mosienko – What a complete hockey player this guy is, and he’s recently agreed a new deal that will see him in orange for a third season. The guy finds energy when others are flagging and is a nightmare for defence with his tireless efforts. Led the team with scoring and provided consistency when we needed someone to step up and take games by the scruff of the neck. Definitely my player of the season, although there were many others who could have taken the title. He’s gonna be even better in 2016-17, that I am sure of.

Colton Fretter – One of the most gifted players in terms of creation, Colton’s second season in Steelers colours was hampered by a troublesome hernia injury which meant he only iced 25 out of 64 games. However he still managed to chip in with some vintage performances which showed what a player he is when on song. I very much doubt he will be back next season, which would be a shame to see. Just wish that we had seen him at his very best last year, alas it was not to be. He does possibly leave as a two-time EIHL Champion though.

Levi Nelson – The former Boston Bruins draft pick had experienced an injury plagued 2014-15 season in the ECHL; and few wondered if this would hold him back in the rough environment of the Elite League. But he proved to be an excellent acquisition, almost getting a point a game. His work ethic was immense and for defences he always had them on the back foot with huge hits and excellent forechecking. Levi also chipped with some crucial goals and would be of my, and many others, list to return next season. Get him re-signed up Thommo!

Fredrik Vestberg – Played just like a typical Swedish hockey player, calm and unfussed. Seldom gave the puck away which shows what an asset he was in this season’s team, and why he scooped the big awards in the end of season dinner. If we can retain him for a second season, bearing in mind he and his family have said many times how much they love it here, Fredrik will have an even better campaign in 2016-17 that I do remain sure of. He’s been an inspired pick up.

Robert Dowd – Like Colton Fretter, the club’s Premier Brit experienced an injury hit campaign with a couple of spells on the sidelines. However that didn’t stop Robbie picking up 32 points in just 41 games which isn’t too bad. His return to the side in the title run was huge and certainly lifted his linemates of Nelson and Vestberg, as when these three were on the same line: they proved to be so hard to contain for an opposing defence. If he can have an injury free campaign, he can easily reach the 30 goal tally if not more. Oh we’ve got him for another 3 seasons too…

Jonathan Phillips – Captain, oh my Captain. This quiet but unassuming Welshman is now reaching legendary status after leading the team to a record fifth Elite League title, his fourth alone. He is another one of those players that goes under the radar in games, but his energy and drive makes things happen and keeps defences on their toes. Deserves his testimonial in 2016-17, his 11^th season in Steelers colours and maybe this will be his swansong. An inspiration to all whether we see him in orange or proudly captaining GB in World Championship games.

Third and final part on its way..

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