From The Editor's Chair - Edition 53

Welcome everyone to the view "From The Editor's Chair". In this particular edition, Mark looks at each of the quarter-finals. It's time for play-off hockey everybody. 

Cardiff Devils (1) v Coventry Blaze (8): For me this is the most clear cut of the match-ups and I don't think many will disagree. Whilst the Blaze, who squeaked into the final eight because of the Clan's inadequacies, have a tendency to give the Devils a game and a bit: they lack the firepower to deny the Devils a place in the final four. Devils will ultimately be too strong and should secure their place with ease.

Key Players: Joey Martin (Devils), Jordan Pietrus (Blaze)

Manchester Storm (2) v Fife Flyers (7): Storm have had an excellent season, their first under the coaching of former Steelers and Clan Head Coach Ryan Finnerty. They have ability in all areas and can play with an edge as well beat you with skill. Fife have had an equally good season themselves but if Andy Iles is still unfit then that will make Storm's chances greater as much as Jordan Marr has been a capable enough deputy.

Key Players: Mike Hammond (Storm), Chase Schaber - should Iles be unfit to play (Flyers)

Sheffield Steelers (3) v Guildford Flames (6): Steelers go into the defence of their play-off trophy in good form indeed, having won their last four games. They will have the luxury of possibly being able to sit two imports and in Eric Neiley, have a man playing red hot. Flames have acquitted themselves well in their debut EIHL season, and if they can keep leg one close then will fancy their chances for an upset. But Steelers should do it.

Key Players: Eric Neiley (Steelers), Brian Stewart (Flames)

Nottingham Panthers (4) v Belfast Giants (5): After losing their way from December onwards, Panthers have started to perform especially when news broke that this would be Corey Neilson and David Clarke's final season apiece. And in play-off hockey they're usually pretty good too. Giants can blow hot and cold too but do have enough about them to ensure there is no fairy tale finish. This one could easily go either way, too close to call.

Key Players: Alexander Mokshantsev (Panthers), Sèbastian Sylvestre (Giants)

How do you see them unfolding?

Mark

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