There is never a dull moment when the Guildford Flames play in Basingstoke. The latest talking point and controversy was the Flames failure to get onto the ice in time for the National Anthem. Just when I think I have seen everything in British Ice Hockey something new happens. As the Anthem began playing, the Bison players were lined up on the blueline. We could see some of the Flames players stood by their bench and in the tunnel. Regardless of any reasons as to why this happened it is irrelevant to me. From a coaching standpoint I felt that this was another motivational factor which would benefit us. If players or a team are not ready on time to play a game, then the psychological advantage must go to the team that is ready to play the game.

The game attracted over 1200 people. Ice Hockey in Basingstoke is becoming the best entertainment in town. I must admit that the atmosphere adds to the excitement of the match. From a playing point of view, the Bison players are really enjoying playing in front of fanatical supporters.

Sunday night we travelled to Bracknell for another big derby game. It was important that we were totally focused beforehand. It was a new day and a new task for us. Bracknell have improved immensely over the past 2 months and a fierce battle was inevitable. Analyzing the 5-2 victory afterwards, I felt that we played well but not great. We didn’t play at the pace in which we beat Guildford but we were workmanlike. The game was not a physical encounter that I had predicted. Teams are playing against us carefully and are not getting many penalties. Our special teams have been strong this season and our powerplay has been lethal at times.

It doesn’t get any easier this weekend. Sheffield has been the better team in the 3 games that we have played so far. Milton Keynes are currently in first place in the EPL and will obviously be very difficult to break down in their rink.

See you Saturday!