Last week I promised sixty minutes of focus and effort against Cardiff and I think we delivered. Certainly the fans and newcomers I talked to after the game said what an exciting and entertaining game it had been and how much they were looking forward to our next Hockey Night.

The players, too, sensed the buzz and excitement as they circled the rink after a game which brought eleven goals. But we were disappointed to have lost out by the odd goal - in fact, to a couple of odd goals. That's how it goes in ice hockey. On another night, we could have won this game if bounces and deflections had gone our way.

Still, we don't want to be involved in too many games this season where we score five goals and lose, especially in our own rink.

Once again we've had the benefit of not having to make a tiring Sunday road-trip. It means we have been able get a good week's training under our belt and continue to rebuild under our new owners.

Housing has been high on the list of priorities. I don't know how many of you have had the experience of being evicted but it's not something any of the players expected could happen. Players may move or get injured. We know this is part of the life of a professional ice-hockey player. But we do take basics such as accommodation and equipment for granted.

Fortunately we're now being provided with the security we signed up for.

It's a big move to pursue your career in a new country, especially when you move with a partner. What starts out as an exciting adventure can quickly become a really stressful situation I know it will take time to turn things round so it was good to hear Planet Ice say how important it was to make sure the players were happy.

Of course, as a coach, I'm looking forward to new signings so that we can compete in the Elite League. Our goal is to make sure we get into the play-offs so we need to fill the gaps in our roster as soon as possible. Right now guys are racking up a lot of ice-time and that's not something I want to happen for too long.

Looking forward to seeing you all at the weekend.