Bus legs a factor as Phoenix go down valiantly

Monday, 22nd October 2007

Coventry Blaze U-14s 8 - 2 Manchester Phoenix U-14s

The two-hour travelling time to Coventry on Saturday proved to be a factor against the Phoenix Under-14 squad as they appeared sluggish and tired in the first period that saw the home side race into a five goal lead.

Coventry totally dominated the first twenty-minute session outshooting the visitors 12-4 on their way to establishing their game-winning position. Phoenix coach Greg Allen decided some strong words were required to waken his charges and whatever he said in the interval plainly had the desired effect.

Phoenix changed their netminder in the interval replacing the unfortunate Mathew Moore with Alex Nash. With the words of Coach Allen ringing in their ears, Phoenix set about trying to turn the game on its head, even if the deficit was realistically beyond them by playing a stronger, more physical game. Jared Dickinson pulled a goal back in the 27th minute and the improved performance saw Phoenix more than competitive until the final minutes when Coventry - thanks to a personal five-goal haul from Ross Venus - added to their first period total. Phoenix to their credit kept going and Scott Robson fed Luke Smith for a well-taken top shelf finish.

Phoenix Under-14s Manager Andy Streetly noted, "The second period ended 3-2 in favour of the Blaze and I was deeply encouraged by that comeback. I'm sure when the squad can figure out how to start as well as we tend to finish games, we'll reverse our recent trend of results."

Stats:
Jared Dickinson 1+0
Luke Smith 1+0
Scott Robson 0+2

Phoenix MVP - Oliver Price

Bus legs a factor as Phoenix go down valiantly

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