Individual News
15th of October 2009
Having won both games last weekend, we are tied for top spot with Manchester and Milton Keynes. Winning by a large margin in front of almost 1200 pumped up supporters gave us a confidence that we could score goals in bunches. I think that may have helped us psychologically as we played well in a close game the following evening, knowing that we had the offence capable of winning a tight game.
From a personal point of view, the game was extremely important. Having played/ coached at Slough for a number of years, I still feel bitter because of the way I was treated during the last few months at Slough. As Director of Hockey in Basingstoke, I will do whatever I can to treat players, both past and present, with respect and honesty.
As an organization, we will always be thankful to those players who have played with commitment and heart for the Bison. Having said that, winning in Slough felt just like any other victory. It was an important two points that we gained but I immediately started focusing my attention on the Guildford game.
Guildford have won 6 games in a row since we beat them in the Spectrum. They may have one or two players missing this weekend but their strength in depth will nullify any potential personnel problems. I expect to see Dean Skinns playing as he has been playing very well this season. We will aim to find a way to score early in the game on Deano. Our keepers, Davey and Tom, have been playing very well, which has been crucial to the run of victories.
One of the beauties of the EPL is the proximity of the teams. There are many rivalries within the League as teams are so close to each other. On the other hand, Manchester seems a million miles away! Players have been spoiled over the years getting home from away games in time to watch Match of the Day. But five hours on a bus and then five hours back? That is way too long.
I would like to thank our fans for being so supportive. Actually, supportive isn’t the word I want to use, but I can’t come up with anything else at this time. I know that the players are very excited about how our fans have treated us and I believe that this is definitely a motivating factor for each player in every game.
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Article published courtesy of the Basingstoke Gazette, Thursday 15th October 2009.
From a personal point of view, the game was extremely important. Having played/ coached at Slough for a number of years, I still feel bitter because of the way I was treated during the last few months at Slough. As Director of Hockey in Basingstoke, I will do whatever I can to treat players, both past and present, with respect and honesty.
As an organization, we will always be thankful to those players who have played with commitment and heart for the Bison. Having said that, winning in Slough felt just like any other victory. It was an important two points that we gained but I immediately started focusing my attention on the Guildford game.
Guildford have won 6 games in a row since we beat them in the Spectrum. They may have one or two players missing this weekend but their strength in depth will nullify any potential personnel problems. I expect to see Dean Skinns playing as he has been playing very well this season. We will aim to find a way to score early in the game on Deano. Our keepers, Davey and Tom, have been playing very well, which has been crucial to the run of victories.
One of the beauties of the EPL is the proximity of the teams. There are many rivalries within the League as teams are so close to each other. On the other hand, Manchester seems a million miles away! Players have been spoiled over the years getting home from away games in time to watch Match of the Day. But five hours on a bus and then five hours back? That is way too long.
I would like to thank our fans for being so supportive. Actually, supportive isn’t the word I want to use, but I can’t come up with anything else at this time. I know that the players are very excited about how our fans have treated us and I believe that this is definitely a motivating factor for each player in every game.
..............................
Article published courtesy of the Basingstoke Gazette, Thursday 15th October 2009.