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Information regarding the Challenge Cup Weekend

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Neil and Tony are used to dealing with interesting challenges, but this one has left them scratching their heads.  Manchester agreed to play in the British Challenge Cup to NIHL rules - 2 imports with only one on the ice at any one time. The league asked if Tony, given his abilities, would consider not playing, a request that was granted. Phoenix said that they would, where possible, play only British-trained players and would utilise their under 23 NIHL team players to fill the vacant places on the bench.

Five of these players were chosen, so that Phoenix would be able to call on a full bench. The problem emerged when the League scheduled games for the NIHL team which clash with the Phoenix cup games.

Playing with 2 imports, no Tony and 2 guys on the injured list would have meant icing with only 12 players, 2 of whom are netminders. Injuries to the NIHL squad have meant that they have had to borrow some Phoenix under 18 players to bolster their numbers.

With the situation looking pretty bleak, the Phoenix character came to the forefront. 4 under 18 players have stepped up to the mark and offered to play. With the EPL team playing to NIHL rules, and the character shown by the youngsters, Phoenix should put up a good show tomorrow.

When asked whether he could win his first Cup game, given the circumstances, Tony had this to say:

“Even with a chunk of our squad missing, I believe that we have enough character and talent to play some good hockey, keep the puck moving and keep their keeper busy.”

It seems that Neil was right when he said:

“We don’t do things the easy way in Manchester.”

Don’t miss Manchester’s first British Challenge Cup game on Saturday night at the Ice Dome. Face off at 19:00.