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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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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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!

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What a weekend...PART TWO!

Welcome to the second part of "What A Weekend!"; the final weekend of the Steelers regular season as seen through my own eyes. The team had just won in the National Ice Centre, home of the Nottingham Panthers, on an emotional night. Could they finish the job in front of their own fans or would Cardiff spoil the party just like they had done just 13 days earlier in the Challenge Cup Final? Stay tuned in...

After the game Friday, it was time to unwind in the Lace City and despite the vocal chords being strained beyond belief, nothing was going to stop me. A couple of beers in Bunkers Hill were downed before heading off to the Pit and Pendulum just around the corner from the hotel. This pub reminds me of the Dove and Rainbow back here in Sheffield, similar ambience and playing the music I can often be found blasting through headphones. I would have gone to Rock City but when I saw they had a chart and dance night on; the P and P proved to be an inspired alternative. We got back to the hotel at almost 2:00am and nodded off by 3.

The good thing about the Ibis was that we could check out as late as noon which was excellent as it allowed us to have a lie-in and recover from Friday's exertions, The voice had almost returned back to normal, and so after a stroll around the superbly organised Continental Market in Market Square where I purchased some kangaroo burgers (seriously I did, just ask Alan), we headed back to South Yorkshire. There was a league title to be won for the first time since 2011 if we didn't freeze, so to speak, on the occasion.

Arriving back at the Arena at just before 6, I was astounded to hear some of my fellow Steelers fans saying how nervous they were before the game. Crikey, if they were nervous, how must have the actual players and Gerad have been - you could easily multiply that ten-fold. To me, it was just another game or as I kept reminding myself exactly that. I was trying to remain as cool as I could on the exterior with little emotion showing. I must have been one of the most calmest people in the House of Steel before the puck dropped at 19:06 hours from the hand of Reading based stripey Tom Darnell - whom I still maintain is the best official we have in the league, way ahead of Mr Hicks...

Cardiff knew they couldn't leave Sheffield without a win, and it was they who opened the scoring just after the ten and a half minute mark. Carl Hudson was the man who lit the lamp with a strike that caught Steelers on the hop after what appeared a bad line change. At the other end Ben Bowns was having one of those nights as he seemed equal to everything that we could throw at him: just like the Challenge Cup Final all over again. Josh Unice was proving equally good, bar the goal, and we finished the first twenty trailing by that solitary goal.

Steelers ramped up the intensity in the second and after banging on the proverbial door many times, it was my Mam and Samantha Dale's favourite who broke Bowns' resistance with a nicely executed leveller at 27:19. The irrepressible Mosienko and Phillips with the helpers. It was also the cue for the teddy bears to hit the ice and the delay affected us. The momentum swung back Devils' way and we had to be thankful for a combination of dogged defending and some solid saves from Unice to ensure we didn't go into the third period behind. The end of the second period hooter came as a massive relief.

Naturally the third period was a cautious one, with only nine shots registered in total by both sides as each looked for that all important breakthrough. My voice was waning again as the game progressed, and it took a modern day legend to break the tie. Former Devil (and Cardiff born) Phil Hill picked up the puck in the left circle after Bowns had saved from Jeff Legue, threw it across ice where that same number 12 had escaped the attentions of Tyson Marsh and he rammed in his 232nd EIHL Steelers goal into the gaping goal with Bowns stranded. The noise level went up another notch.

What followed was periods of pressure from Cardiff, but the Steelers were in no mood to let this slip. Defending like trojans and limiting the Devils to the outside, basic smart hockey when you are in front. Legue had scored with just over 14 minutes left so it was a long time to hold onto such a slender advantage against a team who have pretty good offence as much as you. But Adams' plan was executed to perfection and at 21:21 (the number 21 being so significant in many respects), time ran out on Cardiff and we celebrated. After 72 emotional hours, the Monteith Bowl returned back to Sheffield. It had been done "For Amy" and she could look down on us all and celebrate in heaven. Champions League hockey was coming its way to Sheffield. 

The following night, Cardiff went out and beat a Nottingham team (who simply had nothing to play for in the league, Steelers win against the Devils had given Corey Neilson's team the Erhardt Conference title) 6-2 but even that was only good enough for third. Braehead secured second and the second Champions League spot thanks to former Steeler Stefan Meyer's game winner in Fife to triumph 3-2 (they had beaten Hull 9-4 on Saturday night). And that was that!

So we now head into the two legged quarter final play-offs this weekend. Steelers entertain Fife, Braehead have Hull, Nottingham are paired with Coventry and Cardiff get Belfast. Form should see both Steelers and Clan progress (although upsets can happen as Steelers know to their cost in both 2012 and 2013) whilst the other two could go either way. Panthers face a tough couple of games against massively improved Blaze; the team I personally wanted to avoid; whilst Devils face a Giants side that have failed to deliver this season and will be keen to put some kind of smiles on the faces of the Teal Army. The match ups will determine who will get invites to the Final Four party the following weekend at the NIC. I ain't making any predictions though.


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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What a weekend...PART ONE!

Now that my voice is almost back to normal, namely I am not talking like Johnny Vegas from St. Helens and looking for Monkey, it's time to give my personal recap on what was an absolute immense weekend. 2 massive games and 2 massive results were needed. As you know we are now champions but from my eyes how did it unfold? Sit back and enjoy the ride, as you get to find what I went through as a hardened fan. It really was something special...

Welcome to Part One of "What A Weekend!"

In fact this all started Thursday at 6pm when I finished work. Clocked out on time and onto the X5 bus to S26 to rendezvous with Mr FrozenSteelMNL himself. It was about this time that I heard the sad news about Amy. Despite being on a packed bus, my emotions took hold and I admit I cried my eyes. Amy was a member of the hockey family, and despite the illness, always looked upbeat whenever I saw her around. She will never be forgotten. Fly free sweet angel...

Therefore the mood arriving in S26 was sombre as opposed to the usual happy go lucky one. However both myself and Alan realised we could not allow ourselves to get depressed too much so we broke out the cheesiest of the cheesy music courtesy of my laptop. The laughter returned and we're sure that Amy would have approved, in fact she would have been laughing too I guess. Well if you had heard some of the songs played, you would have been left thinking "Oh my days!"

Friday soon came around and with it, the travel down for the day of destiny - part one. Having checked into the hotel early afternoon, we hit Hooters as usual and meeting up with members of Rock The Block. One substantial meal demolished later, it was back to the hotel to get changed for the game. The game was a high intensity one, with Sam Oakford scoring the first period's only goal. When Greg "Juice" Jacina made it 2-0 early in the second, you could have been forgiven that the defence would collapse like it had many times before in the NIC. But the team pulled themselves together and goals from Forney and O'Connor (the latter, a superb shorthanded effort assisted by the ever energetic Tyler Mosienko) had us level after 40 minutes.

The game went from end to end with both sides pushing for the all important next goal. Panthers regained the lead just over 7 minutes from the end, captain Brandon Benedict firing across Josh Unice (who was having another great game) although it appeared that officials missed a clear push on Tyler in the build-up. We had to dig deep again, with time against us. But cometh the man, cometh the moment. Enter Mathieu Roy (who should be an absolute shoe-in for EIHL MVP), clearly injured, in the 58th minute at the right moment to net the rebound after Modig had saved from Forney initially. Both went for it and as it looked like penalty shots would happened, Mosey was whistled for a tripping call and 28 seconds remained. G used his time-out to perfection, the guys set it and again Roy was in the right place again - the puck rolling into the net in slow motion. We went bananas!

On a personal level, my voice was ruined but I was past caring. I was so overjoyed! I will go along and say it ranks amongst the best moments I have experienced in hockey in the years I have been watching this great game. Amy had definitely been shining on our hockey team on the Friday, could we finish the job in the House Of Steel in less than 24 hours? That was the plan, Cardiff lay in wait for us. Destiny was calling Sheffield Steelers.

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It's the final countdown....

"Der der der der der...." - with sincere apologies to Swedish rock legends Europe. The final week of the regular season is almost here and the title race took an unexpected twist again on Sunday night when a result coming straight out of EH12 surprised all and sundry. The final countdown is definitely on, will my prediction still hold true or have I given the kiss of death to the Purple Army? Let's see...

 

Nobody, not even myself, could have scripted Sunday's events. Sure I expected a bit of backlash from the Cardiff Angels (as our good friend Mr Caps Banter Army has re-dubbed the South Wales team) against us but seriously who would have thought that the Caps would go and win against title chasing Clan? Come on one and all, you never saw it as well: did you?

What it has done for sure, the title race is now wide open and Clan now have to win out to secure the Monteith Bowl which I predicted they will get. Conceivably too, if Cardiff win their game in hand (against the very same Caps team) in the Big Blue Tent tomorrow night then Clan will slip to third and only regulation wins will separate Steelers and Devils. Complex enough for you? That's why I think this season's title race has been one of the most exciting ones in the 11 years the EIHL has been going. It's had more twists and turns than the world famous "Big One" rollercoaster at Blackpool Pleasure Beach. Which makes for great entertainment but isn't too good for the nerves and chewed fingernails.

So will Caps ruin a second team's title ambitions on Wednesday and do the Steelers a second favour? Ideally, we would love it if they did but I honestly can't see happening. Cardiff are pretty damn good in their own barn, and not many teams escape there with a maximum haul. If it had been in Murrayfield, I would have viewed it as a banana skin for Andrew Lord's Angels but not in the BBT. Which makes for grim reading for both Gerad Adams and most importantly; Ryan Finnerty up in the West of Scotland. This then leads us onto 3 potential massive days...

Friday night sees the Steelers travel to the fabulous NIC again for the last time in the regular season where all sorts of implications could abound. The hosts want the win for the Erhardt Conference title; which can give them second seed in the play-offs provided Braehead win the league. Likewise Steelers are in the title hunt, and two points in the Lace City will really launch them into the box seat as regards the Monteith Bowl. If Steelers play like they did in the Challenge Cup semi-final second leg, then they can easily skate away with another win.

Saturday brings games in each Conference which will determine things. Should Sheffield have the win from Nottingham 24 hours earlier in the bag, they could easily be celebrating if they beat the Devils at Sheffield Arena in the teams' third league encounter in the last 10 days. A loss in Nottingham will put the pressure on Adams' men to get the win and then sit back and hope. Cardiff will be two points ahead if they win in the House of Steel and Nottingham have done likewise. Meanwhile Braehead entertain Hull, and they too will need a favour off their "big sister" to keep the purple dreams alive. A home loss to the Stingrays will end their hopes there and then.

So supposing Sheffield finish out with just 2 points from their last two games, there will be many anxious faces in South Yorkshire on Sunday. Devils will be out of the running if they fail to pick up any points Saturday as the regulation win calculator will come into play. A single point haul from the House of Steel might be enough to give them a chance but they need to overcome Nottingham to stand that chance: the positive there being that this game is back in the BBT. Clan on the other hand, have to secure a minimum of a overtime loss if they go into Sunday just a point behind Steelers. They go to Fife, "The Auld Barn", a place they have come unstuck a few times in the past and been beaten convincingly as well. It does add extra spice to proceedings for sure. 

With so many different permutations available, who can say which team be celebrating come probably around 9:00pm Sunday night. The race could be over Saturday but the way this season's title race has unfolded then as a betting man; I'd bet it's highly possible it won't be. Let's get both tomorrow and Friday out of the way and see where we stand then, it's going to be a real test of emotions. Panthers have a massive say in what's going to happen, I bet they wish they had been involved in it. The play-off match ups following the final games should be interesting. As they stand it's:

Sheffield (as league champions) v Hull
Braehead (as Gardiner Conference winners) v Fife
Cardiff v Coventry
Nottingham v Belfast

See what I mean? Anyway that's me done with, I'll have a look at the play-off quarter finals next week when we know who has finished where. As a Steelers supporter, I hope I have reasons to celebrate but then again I am ready to face the mickey taking if we miss out on the Holy Grail for the first time since 2011. I sincerely pray I don't have to go through the latter...Until next week is!

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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It's a three horse race

Well then folks, there is just three full weeks of the regular season to go and we can safely say that the title will go to one of three teams. Since we last looked at this, two "horses" have fallen and that leaves three runners fighting it out for the big prize which is the title of "EIHL League Champions 2015". One of the "fallers" have remounted in the shape of Nottingham and whilst they can mathematically catch the three: they need the three above them to lose every single remaining game and the way the fixtures are...it ain't going happen!

Challenge Cup Final Preview

Sunday is the first big date of the 2014-15 season since the puck was dropped to start the season way back in September 2014. The first piece of silverware (Braehead's Gardiner Conference title excepted) is to be handed out. It's the Challenge Cup Final, and after spending the last five seasons in Gary Moran's Nottingham office, a new name is to appear on it. Is it going up the M1 to sit with Tony Smith and his Steelers organisation or will Todd Kelman and the revitalised Cardiff Devils take it down to South Wales?

Around the EIHL: Week Ending 22 February 2015

It's getting all exciting isn't it? The Challenge Cup Final is going to be decided this week, and the battles at both ends of the league table are bubbling up with just a matter of four weeks left in the regular campaign. Let's have a look at them both, and ahead to the afore mentioned Cup whose semi-finals will reach a conclusion in the next 48 hours. Time to talk hockey.

 

Around the EIHL, week ending 1 February 2015.

Well things have developed here on "The Duell Report". No longer will I be talking Steelers, that has gone over to the new "FrozCast" which we've just gone live with. Instead I'll be here every other week talking EIHL. Bit of a change, but I think it's the way forward. So not only do you get to hear my views vocally but you still get my musings on here in the written form. So away we go....

This is not meant to be a rant but....

I am not one for ranting, but the time has to come to get up on that soapbox and get a few things off my chest. The majority of this was in my subconscious mind whilst I slept after the disappointing result from Dundee had come through. Obviously I have to rethink a certain part of it after an event which broke just a matter of a few minutes ago; but the rest of remains intact. Time to be rarely outspoken, whether you agree or not is entirely down to you....I don't expect everyone out there to nod their heads and say you're right Mark - 100 per cent.

So where's the Monteith Bowl going?

Two months to go and the season finishes again. It's been an eventful campaign for all, both at the top and bottom of the table. Some teams have overachieved, some have underachieved. That's how it really goes in hockey world. Even the NHL teams have seasons where they are brilliant one moment, but absolutely dire the next. So where is the Monteith Bowl, or as some call it, the Elite League title going to head in 2015? Watch and read...

Have the wheels fallen off?

The question now being asked of the team after a pointless weekend in Belfast, is quite simply: Have the wheels fallen off the title challenging bus? With the team now in 4th place in the Elite League standings, thanks to a Blaze shootout win over those down the road, and with just one point in the last eight on offer - it's safe to say a few of the fan base are getting a bit concerned over the dip in form. Am I pressing my panic button yet? Read on and find out....

Christmas time, hockey and whine?

Welcome all to the festive edition of my column here on FSB. With less than 7 sleeps to the big fellow comes a visiting folks worldwide, TDR has decided to play Santa to the hockey world and issued some presents of its own to certain figures in the hockey universe. Please do not take them seriously however, it's all a bit of fun and shoukl be viewed as such. Chuck in a quick look ahead to this weekend's games, here we go:

I got a winning feeling....

Thursday afternoon, just 24 hours to go before game time. Yes folks you heard me right, I did say 24 hours and not 48. That's because we play on a Friday night at home this weekend against the Cardiff Devils as Kasabian have a date at the House of Steel on the Saturday. We head into the game with confidence pretty good after a 4 point weekend last Saturday and Sunday but those games are done with and it's what happens this weekend that now becomes the focus. Strap yourselves in again, this is another huge one.

The Duell Report - The story so far

I am writing the majority of this piece the morning after the win against the Panthers last night, and as the team make their way to Kirkcaldy for our final regular season encounter with those Fife Flyers. It's a chance to get a 4 point weekend, which is always a good feeling at any point of the season, and also to get a regular season sweep of tonight's hosts since we have won both games down here (convincingly I add) and had a win on penalty shots in Fife. I won't be in the "Auld Barn" in person; instead I'll be relying on the excellent and at times humorous Twitter commentary provided by our good friend Laura Duff.

So this in theory should be a review of the November fixtures, but once again I've decided to do something different. The monthly review of the EIHL will probably return next month, I need to make sure it does as it's the halfway point of the season by that time, but I'll concentrate this article on looking back on our season itself. I'm going to do this by position which means the forwards bit will be over a few paragraphs, so bear with me and enjoy.

The Duell Report's Weekend To End All Weekends

Well wasn't that a weekend and a half? Such an enjoyable time in Scotland, visiting our purple friends, my heart was breaking again when I had to leave on the Sunday morning. Two cracking games of hockey in Braehead and then back here for a tough encounter. It was a massive ask for both fans and players alike, most of us were running on adrenaline when we arrived back in the House Of Steel Sunday afternoon. Here's how I saw it unfold.

I love 4 point weekends

So the first of two big flipping weekends is behind us, and wasn't it good? It's been a great last few days in Steelerland to be honest. The team is performing, and a new face comes into town. Throw in another big flipping weekend ahead, it's getting quite exciting and why not?

Before the puck dropped last Saturday night in the House of Steel, I think everyone of us knew the importance of that game and the following night. Forget the Panthers game, games against the teams currently occupying first and second in the overall standings are the benchmark we need to measure ourselves against. They are the ones in the prime real estate as the table toppers; and are there to be shot at. It's where we want to be, we had to step up and be counted.

Belfast had a new goalie in between the pipes, Carsen Chubak, as our usual nemesis: the Dundonian known as Stephen Murphy was out with a groin injury which looks serious enough to have surgery on. Chewbacca, as we dubbed him (cue sounds of the Star Wars character's trademark noise), was a team mate of our very own Cullen Eddy at Adirondack last season so we can only speculate that G had possibly had a word with number 6 to get the lowdown on what the new Giants nettie's strengths and weaknesses were.

Well didn't we start pretty decent, lighting the lamp with less than 2 minutes played. Giants had had the early promise but couldn't convert, so when Fretter found ol' ooh aah Mathieu Roy in space: number 15 did the business for his 15th of the season. Quite not the start Chubak wanted on his dèbut; not that we were complaining. The new netminder looked a bit shaky after this but started to gain confidence after pulling a great point blank save to deny Tyler a certain goal; whilst the hugely influential Ray Sawada sent a shot pinging against Doyle's crossbar with Frank beaten all ends up.

Giants continued to pile on the pressure but Frank was determined to keep us in the game; which always gave us a chance to extend the lead whenever we opened up the visiting D. One such occasion did arrive with just 2:33 left in the first. Forney making it 2-0 off the bar which Mr Hicks immediately signalled a goal before anyone could debate it. This sparked more offense from the Giants as they were unaccustomed to going behind 2-0, and they got on the board at 21:40 when Peacock's effort struck the skate of an unfortunate Ben O'Connor to make it a one goal game.

Determined to set the record straight, O'Connor scored the next goal of the contest at 23:08 - an absolute howitzer that flashed past Chubak before the new nettie could probably even blink. Back came Belfast like a wounded animal and it then became the Frank Doyle show. One such combination saw Sandrock denied twice and then Westgarth (who for the majority of the night was very quiet) in the space of a matter of seconds which would have beaten any goalie elsewhere on any given night. Frank seemed invincible to whatever Steve Thornton's charges threw at him, and only it took a well executed tip in from Sawada to beat him and take the game into the third - finely poised at 3-2 in our favour.

The same pattern seemed to happen in the final stanza, Giants ramping up the intensity but finding Doyle standing tall. Chubak denied Forney on a one-on-one break; echoing his first period save; whilst watching all the pressure at the other end of the ice. Eventually Thornton gambled with 1:09 left and pulled him for an extra body in the hope it would force overtime. This time it didn't work out, and after Hewitt did brilliantly to force a Giants turnover - the puck was sent down ice for a foot race between Jono and the defence. Captain Jono got there first, recycled it quickly from the back of the empty cage and teed up Tyler for a simple finish and game over: making the home support very happy indeed.

One massive game out of the way, another the following day against Finner and his Purple Steelers. It was hugely heartening to give Stefan Meyer a very warm welcome back after his stint in orange last season; but that's the pleasantries ended. Title points, even at this early stage, were on the line. Clan looking to bounce back from a horrific night in Fife, and in more ways than one: on and off the ice it has to be said.

The game was naturally played at a lesser than breakneck speed, perhaps the events of the team's games the previous night contributed to that. Finner was obviously wanting a reaction from his players and he was getting it until at 6:07, Tyler fashioned a brilliant goal for himself: picking up a loose puck in the circle and then beating Jones all ends up with a wrist shot which found the top shelf. Naturally, it became very physical with Hewy going down hurt after a collision with Clan's player/assistant coach Zach Fitzgerald and looking in some serious pain when he finally got to his feet.

Clan were on level terms in the second period very early doors; the hugely influential Scott Pitt lighting the red lamp at the White House end. Like a boxing bout, both sides then looked for the killer blow which would prove vital and just after the 31 minute mark: it was Steelers who landed those big punches so to speak and courtesy of the pocket dynamo known as Tyler Mosienko. At 31:14, he was Johnny on the spot at the back door after a shot from Eddy had caromed off the boards behind Jones' cage. Just as Simmsey was finishing off the goal announcement, Tyler had us all up again with a smart backhand finish. A rare natural hat-trick; but one well deserved though. A few hats hit the ice, not exactly NHL style, but all the same it was a great reward for one of the most popular players in orange this season.

Clan were trying their best for the fantastic support that followed them down the road (hope you enjoyed your pre-game meal Euan and Mam) but Doyle and our D looked solid in protecting the advantage; whilst Jones was bailing out his team at the other end. The icing on the 4 point cake did come with 2:17 left, Clan's defence creaked open for Jay Latulippe to pick up the pieces and finish unassisted five-hole on KyJo, There was no way back now for Finnerty's men and with Giants winning the big clash in the "O" between themselves and the Panthers; the 4-1 win lifted us to third in the standings.

So what can we expect this weekend? Another massive weekend that's what. We welcome our newest signing Daniel Bois to the roster (hope you enjoy it here Danny) and what a couple of games he starts with: a double header in Braehead. Clan will be smarting after the above loss, and with a huge and raucous home support behind them - will be looking to put things right. However, Steelers usually do well in the Braehead Arena and of course will be looking to extend this latest streak of form. However, news this morning suggests we will have to do it the hard way with Kohn and Hewbert (as he is now affectionately known) sidelined with injuries.

I fully expect Bois will probably slot into the third line with Latulippe centering him and Phil Hill as the top two lines are clicking just fine at the moment. Rod Sarich will slot back onto defence which means we should still be able to roll three decent defensive pairings in front of Frank; it's not as if much tweaking has to be done by Messers Adams and Abel.

Sunday and we close out this three in three spell by entertaining the Blaze at the moment. Blaze have really fallen off the radar in the weeks gone by; so much so that yesterday (Wednesday) it cost Furby (Marc LeFebvre) his job. Rumours of in-house fall outs have been widely mentioned so it might be a case of being prepared to face a fired up Blaze (sorry for the bad pun) come 5pm Sunday depending how things have gone previous night. Coventry are as dangerous as any team when things aren't going to plan, it's just something we need to possibly plan for and I'm sure G has this on his agenda too.

Well that concludes more musings, and before I go and finish my packing for Braehead (where I'm sure I'll be bringing my usual supplies back, cheers Kris and Dave) I'd like to extend my congratulations to Tyler on his EIHL player of the week award. He really is some player, and one can only start to speculate what his points tally would be now if he hadn't had to miss the opening five games. You dig what I'm a saying? I reckon you do.

Until next week it is, here's to more success.

Mark

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The Duell Report - Week 5

Editor's note: This was written by Mark prior to Wednesday's game against Hull, hence the preview segment later in the argument.

AFTER a week reviewing the entire Elite League, it’s back to the bread and butter as they say and talk Steelers hockey again. Just the one solitary game to talk about but to pad it out, I’ll have a few thoughts chucked in about our Challenge Cup chances overall. How’s that sound for you? OK, let’s go then…

Tonight (Wednesday evening) sees us take on the Hull Stingrays at the en-suite bathroom (yes, playing there for the third time of asking this season already) in our latest Challenge Cup group qualifier. This is game number six of the round robin format for us but only the second one for our visitors. Mind you, they did not do too shabby in their opener. Just ask Corey Neilson.