BASINGSTOKE,U.K- So far 2009 has not be kind to the Basingstoke Bison, as they still hunt that allusive first victory of the year. Seven defeats have seen them sink to the bottom of the Elite League, but there is still time for late stampede to clinch that all important final play-off spot. That is currently held by the Edinburgh Capitals, with the injury ridden Hull Stingrays trying hard to close in on them. For the Bison they have only two games against their play-off rivals left. Both are on the road and have to yield relegation wins, if they are to make it into the top eight. The Herd’s chances have been boosted by the signing of Czech/Austrian Andre Niec, which now gives the team nine forwards for the first time in a couple of months and means they can roll three lines. Now it is just a case of finding the right combinations. The new forward made his debut in the 7-1 home defeat against the Nottingham Panthers, but picked up as assist on the only Bison goal of the game. He admitted after the game he was still looking to get into game shape, having been off the ice since his shock departure from the Telford Tigers of the English Premier League. In a Tigers’ uniform he chalked up 23 points from 14 games and now will look to return the same for the Herd. He is also keen to use this opportunity to get himself noticed and back into the Austrian national team. He had played once for them before and also played internationals for the junior national side. “I enjoyed being back on the ice tonight, but I still have to work on my fitness. I know this team is suffering at the moment, but I am sure we can turn things around,” Niec said. The Bison have certainly been suffering since Kevin Reiter suffered his ankle injury, but the likes of Great Britain under-20 goalie Euan King and Coventry Blaze Steve Fone have stepped in and done a great job often having to face a heavy shot count. The Herd produced a good work ethic against the Panthers and there was never a six goal different between the sides, but that is what happens when you are bottom. It is hoped that the American goalie Reiter will be back in time for Bisons biggest game of the season. Their first ever Challenge Cup semi-final game against the Manchester Phoenix which is on February 4. Contact the author at Graham.merry@prohockeynews.com
