Showing posts with label Playoffs. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Playoffs. Show all posts
Monday, 28 March 2011
Sunday, 27 March 2011
Stingrays KO'd by Devils; end season with heads held high
Cardiff Devils 6-3 Excel Hull Stingrays
The Excel Hull Stingrays tonight brought the curtain down on their 10/11 Elite League campaign after they were unable to overturn a 2-1 deficit in Cardiff, going down 6-3 in their Playoff Quarter Final Second Leg for an 8-4 aggregate loss.
The task of beating the Devils in Cardiff is one few teams have accomplished this year but that is what the Stingrays had to do following their tight 2-1 loss last night.
However, first period strikes from Brad Voth, Tylor Michel - who both netted in the 2-1 win less than 24 hours earlier - and Ryan Finnerty made a difficult task that bit harder - despite a Jereme Tendler 14th minute goal - with the Rays now requiring three goals in the remaining two periods to take the game to overtime.
The Devils then rounded off their scoring for the quarter final with three further second period goals from Craig Weller, Scott Matzka and Jon Pelle. Those three goals dealt the fatal knockout blow to the Stingrays, however, consolation third period strikes from Konstantin Kalmikov and Andrew Coburn ended the scoreline on the night at 6-3 and on aggregate at 8-4, closing the Stingrays season out in Playoff Quarter Final defeat.
Ultimately, the Stingrays couldn't have asked for a harder opponent in the first round of the playoffs and in the end the Devils - who arguably should have claimed their first ever EIHL title this year - showed their class to see them off for the eighth and ninth time in 10/11 to reach their eighth consecutive finals weekend.
Cardiff now progress to take on Belfast in next weekend's finals weekend, while Sheffield face fierce rivals Nottingham in semi-final's on Saturday before the showpiece playoff final on Sunday afternoon.
The Excel Hull Stingrays tonight brought the curtain down on their 10/11 Elite League campaign after they were unable to overturn a 2-1 deficit in Cardiff, going down 6-3 in their Playoff Quarter Final Second Leg for an 8-4 aggregate loss.
The task of beating the Devils in Cardiff is one few teams have accomplished this year but that is what the Stingrays had to do following their tight 2-1 loss last night.
However, first period strikes from Brad Voth, Tylor Michel - who both netted in the 2-1 win less than 24 hours earlier - and Ryan Finnerty made a difficult task that bit harder - despite a Jereme Tendler 14th minute goal - with the Rays now requiring three goals in the remaining two periods to take the game to overtime.
The Devils then rounded off their scoring for the quarter final with three further second period goals from Craig Weller, Scott Matzka and Jon Pelle. Those three goals dealt the fatal knockout blow to the Stingrays, however, consolation third period strikes from Konstantin Kalmikov and Andrew Coburn ended the scoreline on the night at 6-3 and on aggregate at 8-4, closing the Stingrays season out in Playoff Quarter Final defeat.
Ultimately, the Stingrays couldn't have asked for a harder opponent in the first round of the playoffs and in the end the Devils - who arguably should have claimed their first ever EIHL title this year - showed their class to see them off for the eighth and ninth time in 10/11 to reach their eighth consecutive finals weekend.
Cardiff now progress to take on Belfast in next weekend's finals weekend, while Sheffield face fierce rivals Nottingham in semi-final's on Saturday before the showpiece playoff final on Sunday afternoon.
Saturday, 26 March 2011
Advantage Devils as Rays travel to Cardiff one goal down.
Excel Hull Stingrays 1-2 Cardiff Devils
The Excel Hull Stingrays travel to South Wales tomorrow night for the second leg of the Elite League Playoff Quarter Finals trailing by the slimmest of margins after they tonight went down to the Cardiff Devils by two goals to one in the first leg at Hull Arena.
Sylvain Cloutier's Stingrays began just their second ever EIHL playoff appearance understandably edgy against a Cardiff side that dominated them in their regulation season series with seven wins from eight meetings.
That somewhat pensive approach allowed the Devils to open the scoring after three minutes as Tylor Michel - one of the league's most complete players - punished the Rays overly cautious first powerplay with a lovely low finish shorthanded to give the visitors a one-nil lead.
Ryan Lake - who has been the spark of the Stingrays so often this season but didn't receive as much ice time as he may have tonight - then made his first shift of the game count with an energising big hit which moments later caused temperature levels between the two teams to rise with Ryan Finnerty and Aivars Gaisins at the heart of the minor disagreement.
That first period scuffle set the early tone for a typically intense, gritty playoff affair and one which the Stingrays gradually grew into after the early shorthanded setback.
Ending the first period on top, the Stingrays spurned a couple of great chances in a two minute blitz on the Cardiff net and therefore went in to the second period harshly trailing by a goal.
The Devils Brad Voth took the intense, hard hitting nature of the playoffs a little too far early in the middle stanza as he lined up a big hit on the Stingrays Matti Uusivirta only to floor his own club captain Ryan Finnerty with the massive check that allegedly broke the Canadian's nose.
Then, having denied the Stingrays moments earlier with a magnificent sprawling save, Devils netminder Stevie Lyle was caught way way out of his goal allowing player-coach Cloutier to casually tap home into the unguarded net and deservedly level the scores on 26.25.
That 1-1 scoreline did not last long however, as Devils enforcer Brad Voth pounced on a minor mistake by the Stingrays rearguard to backhand the puck past keeper Christian Boucher and regain the slender lead three minutes later.
Craig Weller then continued the hard hitting theme to the game after 32 minutes with a mammoth mid-ice hit on the Stingrays Lee Mitchell as the period was played out on a similarly even keel as the prior 40 minutes.
A game tying goal seemed vital for the Stingrays chances over the two legs, with results incredibly hard to come by in Cardiff, and they pushed hard for more goals in the final period in front of a good atmosphere at the Hull Arena.
As was the case throughout the game, the Rays had the slight advantage in possession but critically found it difficult to create clear cut chances against a solid Devils defence and with their offence so dangerous, particularly on the counter attack, they remained warey of their responsibilities defensively.
Unfortunately, and perhaps crucially for their chances of qualifying for the semi finals at the Nottingham finals weekend, the Rays couldn't find any further goals with Lyle denying them on a number of occasions - in particular on 49 minutes with a massive pad stack save on the penalty kill to preserve the Devils lead going into the second leg.
The Rays put in an admirable, hard working 60 minute effort to run the Devils as close as they have since early October and the 2-1 scoreline gives them a genuine albeit perhaps small chance tomorrow night.
Although a result in Cardiff is maybe unlikely - after 12-0, 7-4 and 6-1 losses there this season - if Cloutier's team put forth a similar level of commitment tomorrow as they did tonight in their final game of the season at Hull Arena then few can have any complaints, particularly given the circumstances and level of performance of the season past, which returned the club's highest ever points total and highest ever finish in the Elite League.
The Excel Hull Stingrays travel to South Wales tomorrow night for the second leg of the Elite League Playoff Quarter Finals trailing by the slimmest of margins after they tonight went down to the Cardiff Devils by two goals to one in the first leg at Hull Arena.
Sylvain Cloutier's Stingrays began just their second ever EIHL playoff appearance understandably edgy against a Cardiff side that dominated them in their regulation season series with seven wins from eight meetings.
That somewhat pensive approach allowed the Devils to open the scoring after three minutes as Tylor Michel - one of the league's most complete players - punished the Rays overly cautious first powerplay with a lovely low finish shorthanded to give the visitors a one-nil lead.
Ryan Lake - who has been the spark of the Stingrays so often this season but didn't receive as much ice time as he may have tonight - then made his first shift of the game count with an energising big hit which moments later caused temperature levels between the two teams to rise with Ryan Finnerty and Aivars Gaisins at the heart of the minor disagreement.
That first period scuffle set the early tone for a typically intense, gritty playoff affair and one which the Stingrays gradually grew into after the early shorthanded setback.
Ending the first period on top, the Stingrays spurned a couple of great chances in a two minute blitz on the Cardiff net and therefore went in to the second period harshly trailing by a goal.
The Devils Brad Voth took the intense, hard hitting nature of the playoffs a little too far early in the middle stanza as he lined up a big hit on the Stingrays Matti Uusivirta only to floor his own club captain Ryan Finnerty with the massive check that allegedly broke the Canadian's nose.
Then, having denied the Stingrays moments earlier with a magnificent sprawling save, Devils netminder Stevie Lyle was caught way way out of his goal allowing player-coach Cloutier to casually tap home into the unguarded net and deservedly level the scores on 26.25.
That 1-1 scoreline did not last long however, as Devils enforcer Brad Voth pounced on a minor mistake by the Stingrays rearguard to backhand the puck past keeper Christian Boucher and regain the slender lead three minutes later.
Craig Weller then continued the hard hitting theme to the game after 32 minutes with a mammoth mid-ice hit on the Stingrays Lee Mitchell as the period was played out on a similarly even keel as the prior 40 minutes.
A game tying goal seemed vital for the Stingrays chances over the two legs, with results incredibly hard to come by in Cardiff, and they pushed hard for more goals in the final period in front of a good atmosphere at the Hull Arena.
As was the case throughout the game, the Rays had the slight advantage in possession but critically found it difficult to create clear cut chances against a solid Devils defence and with their offence so dangerous, particularly on the counter attack, they remained warey of their responsibilities defensively.
Unfortunately, and perhaps crucially for their chances of qualifying for the semi finals at the Nottingham finals weekend, the Rays couldn't find any further goals with Lyle denying them on a number of occasions - in particular on 49 minutes with a massive pad stack save on the penalty kill to preserve the Devils lead going into the second leg.
The Rays put in an admirable, hard working 60 minute effort to run the Devils as close as they have since early October and the 2-1 scoreline gives them a genuine albeit perhaps small chance tomorrow night.
Although a result in Cardiff is maybe unlikely - after 12-0, 7-4 and 6-1 losses there this season - if Cloutier's team put forth a similar level of commitment tomorrow as they did tonight in their final game of the season at Hull Arena then few can have any complaints, particularly given the circumstances and level of performance of the season past, which returned the club's highest ever points total and highest ever finish in the Elite League.
Rays Rating
7
FBB Three Stars
1- Andrew Coburn (0+0)
2- Sylvain Cloutier (1+0)
3- Ryan Lake (0+0)
Thursday, 24 March 2011
Playoff chance in hell for Stingrays
The Excel Hull Stingrays make their second foray into the Elite League Playoffs this weekend knowing they stand just 120 minutes from the Nottingham Final Four weekend and a place in the semi finals for the first ever time.
Heading into last weekends final two fixtures of the season the Rays didn't know the who their opponents would be in the all important playoff quarter final with the Sheffield Steelers, Cardiff Devils and Belfast Giants still scrapping it out for the Elite League title and the runner up their fateful opponent in the playoff first round.
Despite that mazey and, at times, unbelievable run, Cardiff eventually missed out on their first EIHL league championship to the Sheffield by way of slimmest margins, losing out on the regulation wins first tie breaker after both sides ended the season on 87 points.
Therefore, in a cruel twist of fate for Sylvain Cloutier's side, instead of facing a Sheffield team that they have beaten both home and away in the past season, the Rays are paired up with Cardiff - a team they have claimed just a solitary point from and scored just 14 goals against in eight meetings this year.
If that poor head-to-head record isn't bad enough, the Devils - who earlier in the year set a world record for consecutive wins in the sport at 22 - are still likely reeling from the fact that the league title slipped agonisingly from their grasp and into their fiercest rivals hands, perhaps making them even more determined not to end a good year empty handed.
Of course by now the Stingrays squad don't need anyone to explain enormity of the task that faces them after losing eight on the spin against the Devils.
Losing seven consecutive games against one opponent is maybe no big issue in a league with a reasonably sizeable gap between the haves and have not's. Delve a little deeper into results between the two sides and only then do you begin to realise the true size of the Stingrays ask.
Having opened the season on 3 October with a very encouraging 3-3 tie, the Stingrays were then soundly beaten 7-4 away and 4-2 at home at the hands of the Devils towards the end of the month.
Things would get worse in November, a lot worse, as Cloutier's men were royally thumped 12-0 in South Wales in the most embarrassing of circumstances, live on Sky Sports with incoming player-assistant coach Drew Bannister making his much anticipated debut for the club.
Following that record defeat in the top flight, it initially appeared that the Stingrays luck against Gerad Adams team would change in 2011 as they lost 4-1 in January before they went down 3-1 in February. However, 6-1 and 7-2 losses in the final month of the season sealed the head-to-head series comprehensively in favour of the Devils at 0-8-1 and ended the Stingrays chances of obtaining a clean sweep over Elite League opposition this season with Cardiff the only side they failed to beat.
Nevertheless, forgetting all that has gone before, the Rays are just 120 minutes away from against all odds qualifying for the Nottingham final weekend, and as unlikely as that seems, it is still possible.
It was possible last year too, when - in their first ever EIHL playoff appearance - they took on a Coventry Blaze team that had scored 46 goals against them in nine wins from ten fixtures.
In a tight fought but buzzing first playoff game at the Hull Arena for four years, first took on eighth, and to the surprise of many, the eighth placed Rays held champions Coventry to a 2-1 lead heading into the second leg at the Skydome.
In the end a shocker of a first period, in which they conceded three goals, eventually cost the Rays dear as they lost out 4-1 on the night and 6-2 on aggregate. But for that awful first period showing they may have had a chance in hell.
Top performances right across the board are required for the full 120 minutes but if a similarly tight first leg were to ensue this year, or if the Rays were able to get that nine game old monkey off their back and actually taste victory against the Devils in Hull, then they could once again have a chance in hell of progressing to the promised land in what would become a massive second leg.
Go Stingrays
Heading into last weekends final two fixtures of the season the Rays didn't know the who their opponents would be in the all important playoff quarter final with the Sheffield Steelers, Cardiff Devils and Belfast Giants still scrapping it out for the Elite League title and the runner up their fateful opponent in the playoff first round.
Despite that mazey and, at times, unbelievable run, Cardiff eventually missed out on their first EIHL league championship to the Sheffield by way of slimmest margins, losing out on the regulation wins first tie breaker after both sides ended the season on 87 points.
Therefore, in a cruel twist of fate for Sylvain Cloutier's side, instead of facing a Sheffield team that they have beaten both home and away in the past season, the Rays are paired up with Cardiff - a team they have claimed just a solitary point from and scored just 14 goals against in eight meetings this year.
If that poor head-to-head record isn't bad enough, the Devils - who earlier in the year set a world record for consecutive wins in the sport at 22 - are still likely reeling from the fact that the league title slipped agonisingly from their grasp and into their fiercest rivals hands, perhaps making them even more determined not to end a good year empty handed.
Of course by now the Stingrays squad don't need anyone to explain enormity of the task that faces them after losing eight on the spin against the Devils.
Losing seven consecutive games against one opponent is maybe no big issue in a league with a reasonably sizeable gap between the haves and have not's. Delve a little deeper into results between the two sides and only then do you begin to realise the true size of the Stingrays ask.
Having opened the season on 3 October with a very encouraging 3-3 tie, the Stingrays were then soundly beaten 7-4 away and 4-2 at home at the hands of the Devils towards the end of the month.
Things would get worse in November, a lot worse, as Cloutier's men were royally thumped 12-0 in South Wales in the most embarrassing of circumstances, live on Sky Sports with incoming player-assistant coach Drew Bannister making his much anticipated debut for the club.
Following that record defeat in the top flight, it initially appeared that the Stingrays luck against Gerad Adams team would change in 2011 as they lost 4-1 in January before they went down 3-1 in February. However, 6-1 and 7-2 losses in the final month of the season sealed the head-to-head series comprehensively in favour of the Devils at 0-8-1 and ended the Stingrays chances of obtaining a clean sweep over Elite League opposition this season with Cardiff the only side they failed to beat.
Nevertheless, forgetting all that has gone before, the Rays are just 120 minutes away from against all odds qualifying for the Nottingham final weekend, and as unlikely as that seems, it is still possible.
It was possible last year too, when - in their first ever EIHL playoff appearance - they took on a Coventry Blaze team that had scored 46 goals against them in nine wins from ten fixtures.
In a tight fought but buzzing first playoff game at the Hull Arena for four years, first took on eighth, and to the surprise of many, the eighth placed Rays held champions Coventry to a 2-1 lead heading into the second leg at the Skydome.
In the end a shocker of a first period, in which they conceded three goals, eventually cost the Rays dear as they lost out 4-1 on the night and 6-2 on aggregate. But for that awful first period showing they may have had a chance in hell.
Top performances right across the board are required for the full 120 minutes but if a similarly tight first leg were to ensue this year, or if the Rays were able to get that nine game old monkey off their back and actually taste victory against the Devils in Hull, then they could once again have a chance in hell of progressing to the promised land in what would become a massive second leg.
Go Stingrays
Sunday, 4 April 2010
Belfast are Elite League Playoff Champions
Belfast Giants 3-2 Cardiff Devils (After sudden death shootout)
The Belfast Giants became Elite Ice Hockey League Playoff Champions for the first time with an thrilling 3-2 victory over the Cardiff Devils at a packed out National Ice Centre in Nottingham
After a tight, goalless first period the Northern Irish outfit took the initiative just a minute and 31 seconds into the second period with Brandon Benedict bagging his first goal of the playoffs shortly after a Matt Miller interference penalty had expired. The Giants then doubled their lead ten minutes later as George Awada was credited with the vital tip in on a rasping Tim Cook slapshot from the point on the powerplay.
The Devils needed a quickfire response and that is exactly what they got when Max Birbraer banked the puck in off the back of Giants netminder Stephen Murphy to halve the deficit. Having had the clear edge over Belfast in the second period, the Devils levelled the scores in the 38th minute as Birbraer scored his second of the game, showing perseverance on the powerplay to eventually slapshot the puck home off the post.
The game then intensified in the third period as referee Moray Hanson made the moral decision to let play flow and let the players decide the outcome of the game rather than a controversial penalty. This allowed for an exciting end-to-end final period of the season with the hockey being played typical of that playoff hockey mentality. Despite the intensity, neither side could find that crucial championship winning goal as the British netminders at either end, Stevie Lyle for the Devils and Stephen Murphy for the Giants , stood tall sending the game into overtime.
The sides would further cancel each other out in overtime and, once again, the Giants would rely on their superior shootout skills to finish the job, Evan Cheverie the lucky Giant firing the championship winning shot past Lyle sending the Northern Irish fans into a frenzy.
The Belfast Giants became Elite Ice Hockey League Playoff Champions for the first time with an thrilling 3-2 victory over the Cardiff Devils at a packed out National Ice Centre in Nottingham
After a tight, goalless first period the Northern Irish outfit took the initiative just a minute and 31 seconds into the second period with Brandon Benedict bagging his first goal of the playoffs shortly after a Matt Miller interference penalty had expired. The Giants then doubled their lead ten minutes later as George Awada was credited with the vital tip in on a rasping Tim Cook slapshot from the point on the powerplay.
The Devils needed a quickfire response and that is exactly what they got when Max Birbraer banked the puck in off the back of Giants netminder Stephen Murphy to halve the deficit. Having had the clear edge over Belfast in the second period, the Devils levelled the scores in the 38th minute as Birbraer scored his second of the game, showing perseverance on the powerplay to eventually slapshot the puck home off the post.
The game then intensified in the third period as referee Moray Hanson made the moral decision to let play flow and let the players decide the outcome of the game rather than a controversial penalty. This allowed for an exciting end-to-end final period of the season with the hockey being played typical of that playoff hockey mentality. Despite the intensity, neither side could find that crucial championship winning goal as the British netminders at either end, Stevie Lyle for the Devils and Stephen Murphy for the Giants , stood tall sending the game into overtime.
The sides would further cancel each other out in overtime and, once again, the Giants would rely on their superior shootout skills to finish the job, Evan Cheverie the lucky Giant firing the championship winning shot past Lyle sending the Northern Irish fans into a frenzy.
Saturday, 3 April 2010
Devils and Giants to contest EIHL Playoff Final
The Cardiff Devils and the Belfast Giants progressed to the final of the Elite Ice Hockey League Playoff Final on Sunday with victories over the Coventry Blaze and the Nottingham Panthers respectively.
After leading for much of the game thanks to a Michael Jacobsen strike, the Giants were forced to overtime and penalty shots by the Panthers after Jade Galbraith had levelled with less than four minutes remaining. In a game dominated by netminders Kevin St-Pierre and Stephen Murphy, it was Jeff Szwez that netted the game winning goal in the third round of sudden death penalty shots to fire the Giants into the final.
Earlier in the day the Devils progressed somewhat easily over a depleted Coventry side with a 6-3 victory. Brad Cruikshank scored once and league leading scorer Luke Fulghum managed to net twice for the league champion Blaze, however, doubles from Phil Hill and Matt Miller, as well as further goals from Jay Latulippe and Max Birbraer sent the Devils through.
The two victorious sides now face each other in a Sunday final, which will be broadcast live on Sky Sports 2 at 4pm, for the chance to become EIHL Playoff Champions.
After leading for much of the game thanks to a Michael Jacobsen strike, the Giants were forced to overtime and penalty shots by the Panthers after Jade Galbraith had levelled with less than four minutes remaining. In a game dominated by netminders Kevin St-Pierre and Stephen Murphy, it was Jeff Szwez that netted the game winning goal in the third round of sudden death penalty shots to fire the Giants into the final.
Earlier in the day the Devils progressed somewhat easily over a depleted Coventry side with a 6-3 victory. Brad Cruikshank scored once and league leading scorer Luke Fulghum managed to net twice for the league champion Blaze, however, doubles from Phil Hill and Matt Miller, as well as further goals from Jay Latulippe and Max Birbraer sent the Devils through.
The two victorious sides now face each other in a Sunday final, which will be broadcast live on Sky Sports 2 at 4pm, for the chance to become EIHL Playoff Champions.
Wednesday, 31 March 2010
Monday, 29 March 2010
Sunday, 28 March 2010
Stingrays bow out of playoffs at first hurdle
Coventry Blaze (6) 4-1 (2)Excel Hull Stingrays
A three goal first period from the Coventry Blaze was enough to end the Excel Hull Stingrays first ever foray into the playoffs at the first hurdle as they went down 4-1 on the night and 6-2 on aggregate to the league champions.
The Stingrays, down by just a goal after the first leg, had hoped to score the first goal at the Skydome and put pressure on the Blaze in front of their own fans, however, a Derek Campbell goal seven minutes in put paid to those ambitions.
It would get worse for Sylvain Cloutier against his former team as further first period goals from Greg Owen and perennial Stingray killer Luke Fulghum handed the Blaze an unassailable four goal lead on aggregate.
At this stage even the most ardent Rays fan would have found it hard to believe that their team could go on to win the tie, even after coach Cloutier's tipped in goal on 30.52, and Fulghum's 15th of the season against the Stingrays nearly two minutes of the into the final period put an end to any remaining belief and the Stingrays season.
In truth a victory over two legs against the most consistent team in the league was always going to be a difficult task but throw in the most prolific scorer against the Rays this season and an inform netminder and that task was near impossible.
Although the first leg could have gone either way, with a Stingrays perhaps more deserved of the win, the Blaze were the superior side, both in the second leg and overall. Paul Thompson's side took their far superior chances when it counted, while the Rays failed to make an impact on netminder Hirsch, particularly during several powerplay opportunities over the two legs including a number of 5-on-3's.
The first leg was a notably better team performance than the second, where Cloutier excelled with a proud showing and just Lee Mitchell and Stephen Burns put in significant performances. In the end, those that went missing over the course of the season as well as the final two legs will not be offered a return for next season and Cloutier, who will be negotiating contracts for re-signings this week, has already hinted that is unhappy with a portion of his squad.
Off-season is now upon the Stingrays and the players will soon be heading home, however, for the top four, who, as expected according to league position, all qualified for the playoff semis, the season has been extended by at least one game. The semi-final matchups, to be played in Nottingham next Saturday, will see Coventry face Cardiff and Nottingham play Belfast for the right to qualify for the Playoff Final, which will this season be broadcast live on Sky Sports 2 (4pm) for the first time.
Until next season: Go Stingrays!
F Block Blog MOM: Lee Mitchell (0+0)
SOG: 43-37
PIM: 22-26
Cloutier's Comments: "It's disappointing to lose out, but we can hold our heads up. We were playing the champions – the best team in the league – you have to give them credit. They deserved it, and that's the way it goes. We competed with them and gave it our best shot. We had our chances with our special teams on Saturday night and we didn't take advantage of it. We were still in the game last night, and we got a goal back, but we were then undisciplined and got a bit carried away. The majority of the guys battled to the end and that is what I wanted to see."
A three goal first period from the Coventry Blaze was enough to end the Excel Hull Stingrays first ever foray into the playoffs at the first hurdle as they went down 4-1 on the night and 6-2 on aggregate to the league champions.
The Stingrays, down by just a goal after the first leg, had hoped to score the first goal at the Skydome and put pressure on the Blaze in front of their own fans, however, a Derek Campbell goal seven minutes in put paid to those ambitions.
It would get worse for Sylvain Cloutier against his former team as further first period goals from Greg Owen and perennial Stingray killer Luke Fulghum handed the Blaze an unassailable four goal lead on aggregate.
At this stage even the most ardent Rays fan would have found it hard to believe that their team could go on to win the tie, even after coach Cloutier's tipped in goal on 30.52, and Fulghum's 15th of the season against the Stingrays nearly two minutes of the into the final period put an end to any remaining belief and the Stingrays season.
In truth a victory over two legs against the most consistent team in the league was always going to be a difficult task but throw in the most prolific scorer against the Rays this season and an inform netminder and that task was near impossible.
Although the first leg could have gone either way, with a Stingrays perhaps more deserved of the win, the Blaze were the superior side, both in the second leg and overall. Paul Thompson's side took their far superior chances when it counted, while the Rays failed to make an impact on netminder Hirsch, particularly during several powerplay opportunities over the two legs including a number of 5-on-3's.
The first leg was a notably better team performance than the second, where Cloutier excelled with a proud showing and just Lee Mitchell and Stephen Burns put in significant performances. In the end, those that went missing over the course of the season as well as the final two legs will not be offered a return for next season and Cloutier, who will be negotiating contracts for re-signings this week, has already hinted that is unhappy with a portion of his squad.
Off-season is now upon the Stingrays and the players will soon be heading home, however, for the top four, who, as expected according to league position, all qualified for the playoff semis, the season has been extended by at least one game. The semi-final matchups, to be played in Nottingham next Saturday, will see Coventry face Cardiff and Nottingham play Belfast for the right to qualify for the Playoff Final, which will this season be broadcast live on Sky Sports 2 (4pm) for the first time.
Until next season: Go Stingrays!
F Block Blog MOM: Lee Mitchell (0+0)
SOG: 43-37
PIM: 22-26
Cloutier's Comments: "It's disappointing to lose out, but we can hold our heads up. We were playing the champions – the best team in the league – you have to give them credit. They deserved it, and that's the way it goes. We competed with them and gave it our best shot. We had our chances with our special teams on Saturday night and we didn't take advantage of it. We were still in the game last night, and we got a goal back, but we were then undisciplined and got a bit carried away. The majority of the guys battled to the end and that is what I wanted to see."
Saturday, 27 March 2010
Coventry take slender advantage into second leg
Excel Hull Stingrays 1-2 Coventry Blaze
The Coventry Blaze edged the Excel Hull Stingrays 2-1 in a tense, uptempo first Elite League Quarter Final tonight with just a Greg Chambers goal separating the sides.
The Stingrays, playing in their first ever playoff game in the EIHL, clearly valued the crucial first goal and they matched the title winning Blaze in an exciting, end-to-end first period. The action on the ice was matched, if not by the attendance in the Hull Arena, which was somewhat disappointing in comparison to the final regular season game against Sheffield, then by the atmosphere that a good Coventry following and loud home crowd produced.
The second was similarly tight, although it was the home side that opened up the better with a series of huge chances that could have seen them lead. Player-assistant coach Curtis Huppe was particularly guilty of missing one or two chances after he had been gifted a couple of the opportunities produced as the Blaze defence went AWOL for a short period of time.
The Rays could not put that first goal home and they would go on to rue those missed chances in the 34th minute as Luke Fulghum bagged yet another goal against the Stingrays, his 13th of the season, on the powerplay after Lee Esders committed a preventable interference penalty behind play.
Sylvain Cloutier's side formed a quick fire response less than 30 seconds later as Konstantin Kalmikov scored the Rays first ever playoff goal after Jason Silverthorn had found himself with the enough time, space and composure in front of Peter Hirsch to make the pass to Ukrainian Kalmikov unmarked at the side of the net.
Both sides and sets of fans were understandably nervy in the final period, aware that any mistake would give the other the advantage heading into the second leg in Coventry.
Unfortunately for home fans it would be Lee Esders that would make the crucial mistake, once again being called by referee Andy Carson, this time for tripping. On the ensuing powerplay GB and Blaze forward Greg Chambers intentionally fired a shot at Stingrays keeper Martins Raitums from an acute angle behind the goal line and netted the game winning goal on 47 minutes.
Blaze coach Paul Thompson, believing that a one goal lead heading into the second leg would be enough, ensured that his side remained defensively solid for the final minutes of the game, shutting out the Stingrays in front of the impressive Hirsch.
Both sides now gear themselves up for what could potentially be the final time this season at the Skydome Arena tomorrow night with the Blaze one goal to the good and the Stingrays needing two goals to qualify for the final four in Nottingham next weekend.
F Block Blog MOM: Sylvain Cloutier (0+1)
SOG: 31-35
PIM: 10-14
Cloutier's Comments: "We're happy we are still in the game, that was important for us. Coventry are the best team in the league and we kept it close in the first leg. I told the guys before the first leg 'this is like game six, we have to stay alive and then play game seven on the road and then anything can happen. We've got to turn the page and get ready for the second leg."
The Coventry Blaze edged the Excel Hull Stingrays 2-1 in a tense, uptempo first Elite League Quarter Final tonight with just a Greg Chambers goal separating the sides.
The Stingrays, playing in their first ever playoff game in the EIHL, clearly valued the crucial first goal and they matched the title winning Blaze in an exciting, end-to-end first period. The action on the ice was matched, if not by the attendance in the Hull Arena, which was somewhat disappointing in comparison to the final regular season game against Sheffield, then by the atmosphere that a good Coventry following and loud home crowd produced.
The second was similarly tight, although it was the home side that opened up the better with a series of huge chances that could have seen them lead. Player-assistant coach Curtis Huppe was particularly guilty of missing one or two chances after he had been gifted a couple of the opportunities produced as the Blaze defence went AWOL for a short period of time.
The Rays could not put that first goal home and they would go on to rue those missed chances in the 34th minute as Luke Fulghum bagged yet another goal against the Stingrays, his 13th of the season, on the powerplay after Lee Esders committed a preventable interference penalty behind play.
Sylvain Cloutier's side formed a quick fire response less than 30 seconds later as Konstantin Kalmikov scored the Rays first ever playoff goal after Jason Silverthorn had found himself with the enough time, space and composure in front of Peter Hirsch to make the pass to Ukrainian Kalmikov unmarked at the side of the net.
Both sides and sets of fans were understandably nervy in the final period, aware that any mistake would give the other the advantage heading into the second leg in Coventry.
Unfortunately for home fans it would be Lee Esders that would make the crucial mistake, once again being called by referee Andy Carson, this time for tripping. On the ensuing powerplay GB and Blaze forward Greg Chambers intentionally fired a shot at Stingrays keeper Martins Raitums from an acute angle behind the goal line and netted the game winning goal on 47 minutes.
Blaze coach Paul Thompson, believing that a one goal lead heading into the second leg would be enough, ensured that his side remained defensively solid for the final minutes of the game, shutting out the Stingrays in front of the impressive Hirsch.
Both sides now gear themselves up for what could potentially be the final time this season at the Skydome Arena tomorrow night with the Blaze one goal to the good and the Stingrays needing two goals to qualify for the final four in Nottingham next weekend.
F Block Blog MOM: Sylvain Cloutier (0+1)
SOG: 31-35
PIM: 10-14
Cloutier's Comments: "We're happy we are still in the game, that was important for us. Coventry are the best team in the league and we kept it close in the first leg. I told the guys before the first leg 'this is like game six, we have to stay alive and then play game seven on the road and then anything can happen. We've got to turn the page and get ready for the second leg."
Thursday, 25 March 2010
Playoff Quarter Final Weekend Preview: Stingrays v Coventry
V
EIHL PLAYOFF QUARTER FINAL
Saturday 27th March 2010: Excel Hull Stingrays (8th) v Coventry Blaze (1st) @ Hull Arena F/O 5.30pm
Sunday 28th March 2010: Coventry Blaze (1st) v Excel Hull Stingrays (8th) @ Skydome Arena F/O 6pm
This is it, the moment the Excel Hull Stingrays have been building up to for four long years. An Elite League playoff quarter final. Two legs of intense playoff action with the winner heading to the coveted final four weekend in Nottingham and the loser dusting off the golf clubs and hitting the course for an agonising six month summer.
Okay, so the Stingrays haven't exactly earned the right to be there, with all eight EIHL clubs automatically qualifying after a 56 game regular season, but try telling that to Sylvain Cloutier and his players, who have just completed the most successful Elite League campaign in the teams short history.
Whether they are worth it or not, the Stingrays are in their first ever Elite League Playoff Quarter Final and they have been presented with a huge chance to make the league's showpiece event for the first time.
They needn't even win two games, winning one game by two goals and keeping the other within one will be enough.
Of course, standing in their way are the four time and 09/10 Elite League Champion Coventry Blaze. A team that dominated the Stingrays during the regular season by netting 46 goals in the ten games between the sides, claiming nine wins in the process. Composed of offensive talent and solid defence in equal measure, the Blaze, coached by current Great Britain coach Paul Thompson, led the Elite League from the front this year and didn't look back.
The Rays will naturally and fairly be labelled the underdogs having claimed just one win over the Blaze all season and having occupied bottom spot for most of the season, however, that win sole win did come in the last meeting between the two sides and the Stingrays have hit form post-Christmas.
If, just if, Sylvain Cloutier's Stingrays can continue post-Christmas home form that has seen them claim nine wins in 13 games by notching up another victory to add to that impressive tally then, with the second leg in Coventry to come, the odds of a shock Stingrays victory may begin to fall. The home leg of the tie is crucial for both sides, lose that, in front of your own fans and it either be an uphill struggle or it'll already be over.
It is a big chance, a huge chance, for Cloutier and his team to get the Stingrays to a place many fans never thought they'd see the team. A two game push to qualify for the final four in Nottingham.
For the first time, it's playoff hockey time! Go Stingrays!
Form
Stingrays: W W W L W
Coventry: L W W W L
Last 3 Meetings
v Coventry
17/01/10 5-3 L A
31/01/10 6-1 L A
27/02/10 2-1 W H
Stingrays Season Series v Coventry Blaze
Record: 1 win, 9 losses (Series Lost)
Points: 2 points
Goals for: 23 (2.3 av. per game)
Goals against: 46 (4.6 av. per game)
Key Players
Stingrays
Konstantin Kalmikov (54GP 31+27 4PIM) The Ukrainian sharpshooter will need to return to form that saw him hit ten goals in nine games at the end of February and beginning of March, which ultimately saw him crowned player and forward of the season. Somewhat worryingly, in the three games since March 10 he has failed to tally one goal and while for most players this would be but a small blip in a brilliant season, Kalmikov's presence and goal scoring ability is vital to the Rays success.
Curtis Huppe (52GP 19+23 36PIM) It will be hoped that assistant coach Huppe will reproduce the four goal, five point effort from last weekend, this weekend against his former club Coventry. The same drive, determination and, most importantly, goal tally is required from Huppe, particularly if Kalmikov is out of form or is being marked out of the game.
George Halkidis (46GP 6+15 36PIM) Halkidis has had a rollercoaster ride in his return to hockey after a year out due to a shoulder injury last year. Points and defensive solidity have come back to his game eventually and, although mistakes and poor positioning have cost the Rays a number of times this season, more of the former will be needed this weekend if the Rays are to move to the semi finals.
Coventry
Jonathan Weaver (56GP 13+54 50PIM) GB defenceman and former Hull Thunder forward Weaver doesn't flinch in the big games. His offensive ability from the back is unquestioned but it is his defensive qualities that will be most important for the Blaze this weekend. Theoretically they have more than enough firepower to deal with the Stingrays, therefore the risk of Weaver carrying the puck forward on the rush is somewhat unnecessary. His shot from the blueline on the Coventry powerplay could be a game winner for Thompson.
Luke Fulghum (56GP 48+32 62PIM) After joining from an impressive Manchester side in summer, little more than secondary scoring was expected from Fulghum in Coventry colours after the service he received from Tony Hand in Altrincham. 48 goals in 56 games is what the forward congered up this season and included in that 12 goals in ten games against the Rays. A Stingray killer you could call him, he has scored in all eight games against the Rays and it is certain that he will be deadly once again this weekend.
Adam Calder (45GP 33+27 82PIM) The Canadian popped up at the perfect time to net a hat-trick, including the championship winning goal in overtime against Edinburgh last weekend. His decision to quit the Blaze and move North as player/coach of Braehead next season is now well known, although not officially announced, and he will want to leave Coventry on a high. Well up there in all-time Elite League goal and point scorers list, Calder is dangerous at the worst of times but this weekend, with the end of his Blaze career in sight, he will want to extend that career for at the very least another game.
Between the Pipes
Stingrays: Martins Raitums (22GP 3.73GAA 89.8sv.%) The signing of the Latvian in place of Swede Tommy Sandahl was a masterstroke by Cloutier. Since he joined the team has gone on the kind of impressive run of form that was expected from the beginning in Hull with the only possible criticism now being that Raitums should have been brought in sooner. Raitums, who once faced Canada at the Olympics, has looked assured and confident in the Stingrays net behind a defence that does, on occasion, go missing. If the Stingrays are to progress two massive games are needed from the Latvian netminder.
Coventry: Peter Hirsch (58GP 3.00GAA 91.5SV.%) After a year of JF Perras, the Blaze have finally found an adequate replacement for Trevor Koenig in former Denmark number one keeper Hirsch. The 31 year old, like Koenig before him, has been consistent in the Blaze goal and that, in itself, has helped them to the title this season, despite, incredibly, criticisms of the defence in front of him. Realistically, if the Blaze play to their strengths and undoubted ability, Hirsch should have to be no more than solid this weekend. If he is being called on too much, chances are a cracking series is in the making.
Absentees
Stingrays: Aivars Gaisins (broken hand)
Coventry: Full Strength
Predictions
Stingrays 4-3 Coventry
Coventry 4-2 Stingrays
Other Games
Belfast Giants (2nd) v Newcastle Vipers (7th)
Nottingham Panthers (3rd) v Edinburgh Capitals (6th)
Cardiff Devils (4th) v Sheffield Steelers (5th)
Sunday, 21 March 2010
Playoff Quarter Final details confirmed
The details of the Excel Hull Stingrays first ever appearance in the EIHL Playoffs have been revealed in a matchup which will see Sylvain Cloutier's side pit against former side and 09/10 EIHL Champions the Coventry Blaze.
Hull Arena will be the venue for the first leg of the Quarter Final next Saturday ( 5.30pm face-off) before the Rays travel to Coventry on Sunday night (6pm face-off), having hopefully claimed a lead in the first leg.
The Skydome based side own the best record against the Stingrays this year, as they dominated the season series between the two sides winning nine of the teams ten meetings, scoring 46 goals and conceding half that amount, on their way to their fourth title in their 10th anniversary season.
Elsewhere in the EIHL, runners up Belfast face the Newcastle Vipers, the 3rd placed Nottingham Panthers play the Edinburgh Capitals and the Cardiff Devils ice against the Sheffield Steelers.
Hull Arena will be the venue for the first leg of the Quarter Final next Saturday ( 5.30pm face-off) before the Rays travel to Coventry on Sunday night (6pm face-off), having hopefully claimed a lead in the first leg.
The Skydome based side own the best record against the Stingrays this year, as they dominated the season series between the two sides winning nine of the teams ten meetings, scoring 46 goals and conceding half that amount, on their way to their fourth title in their 10th anniversary season.
Elsewhere in the EIHL, runners up Belfast face the Newcastle Vipers, the 3rd placed Nottingham Panthers play the Edinburgh Capitals and the Cardiff Devils ice against the Sheffield Steelers.
Sunday, 5 April 2009
Steelers retain the EIHL playoff title
The Sheffield Steelers regained the Elite League playoff title for a second consecutive season by shutting out their fierce rivals the Nottingham Panthers 2-0, in the process completing a deserved double championship winning season.
Following their capture of the EIHL league title just four weeks ago, the Steelers went into this game as heavy favourites after easily beating the Edinburgh Capitals last week and edging past the favoured Cardiff Devils yester, however the Panthers were backed by thousands of fans on home ice at the Trent FM Arena and entered the tie with two easy wins over Manchester and Coventry.
In the end though, the Steelers, lead by a Jody Lehman shutout, a record breaking tenth of the season, and goals from Steve Munn and Ryan Finnerty, secured their third trophy in two seasons in a tightly fought victory.
Following their capture of the EIHL league title just four weeks ago, the Steelers went into this game as heavy favourites after easily beating the Edinburgh Capitals last week and edging past the favoured Cardiff Devils yester, however the Panthers were backed by thousands of fans on home ice at the Trent FM Arena and entered the tie with two easy wins over Manchester and Coventry.
In the end though, the Steelers, lead by a Jody Lehman shutout, a record breaking tenth of the season, and goals from Steve Munn and Ryan Finnerty, secured their third trophy in two seasons in a tightly fought victory.
Saturday, 4 April 2009
Panthers and Steelers to compete for EIHL playoff title
The Nottingham Panthers and Sheffield Steelers will renew acquaintances in the EIHL Playoff final after scoring easy victories over the Coventry Blaze and Cardiff Devils respectively, in front of a sold out crowd at the Trent FM Arena in Nottingham.
The Steelers continued their brilliant season with a 5-2 win over an in form Cardiff Devils side which puts them into the playoff final for the second time in two years and hands them a chance to regain the trophy they won 12 months ago.
Meanwhile the Panthers seem to have hit form at the right time. After sweeping aside the Manchester Phoenix in the Quarter Finals, they pushed the Coventry Blaze aside with equal ease, eventually progressing passed the Blaze, 6-2.
In what is undoubtedly one of the biggest rivalries in British ice hockey, the sides will meet tomorrow in front of a capacity crowd once again for the chance to lift the playoff trophy.
The Steelers continued their brilliant season with a 5-2 win over an in form Cardiff Devils side which puts them into the playoff final for the second time in two years and hands them a chance to regain the trophy they won 12 months ago.
Meanwhile the Panthers seem to have hit form at the right time. After sweeping aside the Manchester Phoenix in the Quarter Finals, they pushed the Coventry Blaze aside with equal ease, eventually progressing passed the Blaze, 6-2.
In what is undoubtedly one of the biggest rivalries in British ice hockey, the sides will meet tomorrow in front of a capacity crowd once again for the chance to lift the playoff trophy.
Friday, 3 April 2009
EIHL Playoffs 2009: Final Weekend Predictions
Following a wholly successful set of Quarter Final predictions, with four out of four predictions correct, albeit with no correct results, here, amid a collapsing BMI Baby Elite League, are my predictions for the Elite League Playoff Final Weekend.
Semi Final
Sheffield Steelers (1) v Cardiff Devils (6)
After scoring an easy first leg victory over the Edinburgh Capitals, the Sheffield Steelers cruised to an aggregate victory over the Caps. Meanwhile, as predicted right here, the Cardiff Devils shocked the Knockout Cup and Challenge Cup winners, the Belfast Giants, with an overtime second leg win. This game pits the underdogs of the playoffs against the number one seeds, and two teams that are not without rivalry and history this season. It is almost a certainty that the playoff champion will prevail from this tie, with the Steelers edging it in a low scoring affair. But if there is to be a shock, be sure that the Devils will provide it, after a scintillating end to the season and a surprise win over the Giants.
Prediction: Steelers 3-2 Devils
Prediction: Blaze 3-4 Panthers
Final
Sheffield Steelers (1) v Nottingham Panthers (4)
It is the final that the Elite League and both sets of supporters will have hoped for, and, if both sides make it, it promises to be one of the best, most enthralling games of the season. The Sheffield side have not had it all their own way over the Panthers this season, especially given their dominance over the rest of the league, so there is hope for the Panthers to score a victory over the unstoppable Steelers. However Sheffield have such a solid side it is difficult to see them pass up the opportunity for a second playoff triumph, even if it does take overtime and penalty shots.
Prediction: Steelers 4-3 Panthers
Semi Final
Sheffield Steelers (1) v Cardiff Devils (6)
Prediction: Steelers 3-2 Devils
Coventry Blaze (2) v Nottingham Panthers (4)
Another game that is not without it's intense rivalry. This game pits the fallen champion and, thus far, trophy less, Coventry Blaze, against so-called Team Hollywood, aka perennial underachievers, the Nottingham Panthers. The Blaze just about passed the Newcastle Vipers in the Quarters, thanks to a stellar final ten minutes, whilst the Panthers expectedly beat the Manchester Phoenix. With the Panthers playing in front of thousands of home fans at the NIC, significantly more than any other team, and with the Blaze eager to end a god awful season, by their own high standards, it is difficult to see the Panthers lose this one. But once again this semi final matchup presents everything you need from a playoff game, fierce rivalry, two good teams and the goal of the playoff final, in front of a packed Trent FM Arena.Prediction: Blaze 3-4 Panthers
Final
Sheffield Steelers (1) v Nottingham Panthers (4)
Prediction: Steelers 4-3 Panthers
Friday, 27 March 2009
EIHL Playoffs 2009: Quarter Final Predictions
With the Stingrays season well and truly over, F Block Blogs attentions now turn to the EIHL Playoff Quarter Finals and predictions on which teams will take their first steps to playoff glory in the two legged first round this weekend.
Aggregate Prediction: Steelers 8-4 Capitals
Aggregate Prediction: Blaze 9-3 Vipers
Nottingham Panthers (3) v Manchester Phoenix (6)
A tough one to call, neither side has set the league alight this season in the way that Phoenix forward David Alexandre Beauregard has, but both with stand a good chance of cup glory if they pass this stern test. The Panthers hold the slight edge in the playing stakes due to the fact they won't want to disappoint their fans who will sell out the NIC should they make it to finals weekend, but the Phoenix will want to finally claim a trophy after two cup final losses. My money is on the Panthers to edge it over a resilliant Phoenix side
Aggregate Prediction: Panthers 9-8 Phoenix
Belfast Giants (4) v Cardiff Devils (5)
This has a real chance of being an upset, the Giants have claimed their silverware for the season in the form of the Challenge Cup and British Knockout Cup, therefore they may misjudge a Devils side that, along with Edinburgh, are one of the form teams in the EIHL. The Devils have won their last six on the bounce, including a 6-3 win in Sheffield over the Steelers, cementing a solid fifth placed finish, so will enter the tie relishing the chance of beating the newly crowned cup champions. Of course whether Brad Voth keeps his head will be vital to whether the Devils progress, but this has cup set written all over it. Likewise, whether the deadly line of Andrew Martin, Paul Deniset and Bobby Robins are fit and in full flow, is key to the Giants chances.
Aggregate Prediction: Giants 10-11 Devils
Sheffield Steelers (1) v Edinburgh Capitals (8)
The Capitals have been one of the hottest teams in the Elite League in the past few weeks, whilst the Steelers have been cruising for two weeks following their first league title in five years, it would normally be the perfect recipe for an upset. Unfortunately for the Caps, the Steelers have been just too damn solid over 54 game season for anyone to envisage them losing this. However saying that is playing straight into the Capitals hands, underestimate them and the Steelers will be forced to pay for it. The Scottish side have, after all, won seven of their last nine fixtures.Aggregate Prediction: Steelers 8-4 Capitals
Coventry Blaze (2) v Newcastle Vipers (7)
One of the easier games to predict is this one. Although the Blaze have had the occasional blip against the Vipers this season, the Tyneside club have been stripped down to the bare bones after a series of injuries. Of course this is playoff hockey and of course this is sport, therefore anything is possible, but the Blaze will want to put to bed a bad season with a playoff victory and an ageing, understrength Vipers side are unlikely to stop the Blaze start their push for a trophy.Aggregate Prediction: Blaze 9-3 Vipers
Nottingham Panthers (3) v Manchester Phoenix (6)
Aggregate Prediction: Panthers 9-8 Phoenix
Belfast Giants (4) v Cardiff Devils (5)
Aggregate Prediction: Giants 10-11 Devils
Thursday, 5 March 2009
PLAYOFF RACE 09: Caps drop game in hand
The Edinburgh Capitals lost out in Manchester to the Phoenix by four goals to two in their game in hand over the Stingrays, with the Phoenix needing a last minute empty net goal from David Beauregard to make the victory certain.
The loss leaves the Caps still a point ahead of the Excel Hull Stingrays with both sides having five games remaining before that final day playoff showdown.
As it stands:
8th- Edinburgh GP47, W 13, OTL6, L28, GF146, GA219, GDIFF -73, PTS 31
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9th- Stingrays GP47, W 13, OTL5, L29, GF127, GA210, GDIFF -83, PTS 30
The loss leaves the Caps still a point ahead of the Excel Hull Stingrays with both sides having five games remaining before that final day playoff showdown.
As it stands:
8th- Edinburgh GP47, W 13, OTL6, L28, GF146, GA219, GDIFF -73, PTS 31
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9th- Stingrays GP47, W 13, OTL5, L29, GF127, GA210, GDIFF -83, PTS 30
Wednesday, 18 February 2009
PLAYOFF RACE 09: Caps move point clear
The Edinburgh Capitals moved one point clear of the Excel Hull Stingrays in eighth place after a 5-4 overtime loss in Cardiff.
The Devils took a three zip lead in the second period with a double from Tyson Teplitsky before the Scottish side defied the odds once again to level it up.
The Welsh side very nearly did the Stingrays a big favour by denying Edinburgh even a point as a Wes Jarvis goal handed the Devils a 4-3 lead with less than eight minutes remaining. Capitals talisman, and one of the players of this Elite League season, Mark Hurtubise levelled the scores with less than 60 seconds remaining and with Capitals netminder Pasi Raitanen pulled.
Fortunately the gap between 8th and 9th is just one point after tonight as Mike Hartwick scored for Cardiff to seal the two points.
As it stands:
8th- Edinburgh GP43, W 12, OTL6, L25, GF131, GA205, GDIFF -74, PTS 30
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9th- Stingrays GP43, W 12, OTL5, L26, GF112, GA187, GDIFF -75, PTS 29
The Devils took a three zip lead in the second period with a double from Tyson Teplitsky before the Scottish side defied the odds once again to level it up.
The Welsh side very nearly did the Stingrays a big favour by denying Edinburgh even a point as a Wes Jarvis goal handed the Devils a 4-3 lead with less than eight minutes remaining. Capitals talisman, and one of the players of this Elite League season, Mark Hurtubise levelled the scores with less than 60 seconds remaining and with Capitals netminder Pasi Raitanen pulled.
Fortunately the gap between 8th and 9th is just one point after tonight as Mike Hartwick scored for Cardiff to seal the two points.
As it stands:
8th- Edinburgh GP43, W 12, OTL6, L25, GF131, GA205, GDIFF -74, PTS 30
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9th- Stingrays GP43, W 12, OTL5, L26, GF112, GA187, GDIFF -75, PTS 29
Sunday, 15 February 2009
PLAYOFF RACE 09: Capitals back level on points
The Edinburgh Capitals have moved back onto level points with the Excel Hull Stingrays as the battle for the final playoff spot intensifies with just 11 games remaining.
The Capitals beat the sixth placed Cardiff Devils 7-4 at their Murrayfield rink with Slovakian forward Martin Cingel notching himself an important hat trick.
The win takes the Capitals onto 29 points, level with the Stingrays, with a game in hand against the Devils in Cardiff. Perhaps crucially the Stingrays have six home games remaining to the Capitals five, whilst the sides face each other at the Hull Arena on the final day of the season, rendering a point difference of two points or less prior to the final day of the season irrelevant.
As it stands:
7th- Newcastle GP44, W 17, OTL4, L22, GF119, GA142, GDIFF -23, PTS 38
8th- Edinburgh GP42, W 12, OTL5, L25, GF127, GA200, GDIFF -73, PTS 29
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9th- Stingrays GP43, W 12, OTL5, L26, GF112, GA187, GDIFF -75, PTS 29
10th-BasBison GP43, W 08, OTL3, L32, GF111, GA211, GDIFF -100, PTS 19
Remaining games:
Edinburgh (12 games remaining)
18/02 @ Cardiff
21/02 v Coventry
22/02 @ Coventry
28/02 @ Manchester
01/03 v Newcastle
07/03 @ Cardiff
08/03 v Belfast
14/03 @ Nottingham
15/03 @ Coventry
21/03 v Manchester
22/03 @ Stingrays
Stingrays (11 games remaining)
21/02 v Cardiff
22/02 @ Sheffield
28/02 @ Belfast
01/03 v Nottingham
07/03 v Manchester
08/03 @ Manchester
14/03 @ Cardiff
15/03 v Basingstoke
21/03 v Cardiff
22/03 v Edinburgh
TBA @ Coventry
The Capitals beat the sixth placed Cardiff Devils 7-4 at their Murrayfield rink with Slovakian forward Martin Cingel notching himself an important hat trick.
The win takes the Capitals onto 29 points, level with the Stingrays, with a game in hand against the Devils in Cardiff. Perhaps crucially the Stingrays have six home games remaining to the Capitals five, whilst the sides face each other at the Hull Arena on the final day of the season, rendering a point difference of two points or less prior to the final day of the season irrelevant.
As it stands:
7th- Newcastle GP44, W 17, OTL4, L22, GF119, GA142, GDIFF -23, PTS 38
8th- Edinburgh GP42, W 12, OTL5, L25, GF127, GA200, GDIFF -73, PTS 29
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9th- Stingrays GP43, W 12, OTL5, L26, GF112, GA187, GDIFF -75, PTS 29
10th-BasBison GP43, W 08, OTL3, L32, GF111, GA211, GDIFF -100, PTS 19
Remaining games:
Edinburgh (12 games remaining)
18/02 @ Cardiff
21/02 v Coventry
22/02 @ Coventry
28/02 @ Manchester
01/03 v Newcastle
07/03 @ Cardiff
08/03 v Belfast
14/03 @ Nottingham
15/03 @ Coventry
21/03 v Manchester
22/03 @ Stingrays
Stingrays (11 games remaining)
21/02 v Cardiff
22/02 @ Sheffield
28/02 @ Belfast
01/03 v Nottingham
07/03 v Manchester
08/03 @ Manchester
14/03 @ Cardiff
15/03 v Basingstoke
21/03 v Cardiff
22/03 v Edinburgh
TBA @ Coventry
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