NIHL North round-up – week 16

BLACKBURN, UK – NIHL1 North leaders Solway Sharks still hold a three point lead over Billingham Stars after both won at the weekend. Sharks won 3-0 at Trafford Metros courtesy of a goal in each period from John Connolly, Nathan Salem and Adam Reynolds, while Stars beat Sheffield Spartans 7-1 – Richie Thornton (2) led their scoring.

Blackburn Hawks stay third after extended their winning run to six. On Saturday they recovered from 0-2 and 2-3 down to defeat Trafford Metros 4-3 – Rick Ravey got the winner. The following evening Hawks travelled to Whitley Warriors and ran out comfortable 4-1 winners – Dave Meikle (2), Craig Roger s and Jared Owen got Hawks ‘ goals.
Sutton Sting hold the final play-off position after a 5-2 win at home to Telford Titans. Matt Jeffcock, Richie Oliver, Simon Butterworth, James Goodman and Shaun Ashton got the Sting goals. In the Trans-Pennine East West Trophy Solway crushed Deeside Dragons 16-1 – Reynolds hit five for Sharks.
Nottingham Lions have opened a four point lead at the top of NIHL2 North after beating title rivals Sheffield Senators. Michael Rose opened the scoring for Lions in the first, but Martyn Gray tied things up early in the middle period. Joe Wightman grabbed two quick goals around the halway point to put Nottingham firmly in control, before Christy Johnson-Brown ‘ s late effort sealed an impressive 4-1 success.
Solihull Barons move up to second after an 8-2 win at home to Hull Stingrays – Chris Allen hit a hat-trick. Jordan Bannon scored twice on his debut for Deeside as they demolished Fylde Flyers 16-1 – Shaun Kippin also notched his first ever senior hat-trick.
Next weekend sees Telford host Blackburn, while Billingham welcome Trafford to the TFM Ice Arena. Contact the author at: Michael.Black@prohockeynews.com