Jason Parry will renew his call for the Tigers NIHL youngsters to learn from their senior colleagues in Saturday’s encounter with high-flying Blackburn Hawks.
A string of late fitness tests means Parry won’t be able to name his final squad until just before the start of the game at Telford Ice Rink (5.30pm).
And with Blackburn having lost twice in recent weeks, Parry wants to ice a full squad against the Moralee Conference front-runners.
He said: “I am hoping for a bigger squad on Saturday, but of course it all depends on fitness. When we’re short on bodies, the young lads have to step up and perform.
“In the last game, we had some of the more offensive players back and the other guys maybe took a step back. I’m expecting them to learn from those experienced players.
“The youngsters need to perform the same way every week, whether those other players are in the team or not. The older guys are always willing to talk to the young lads, offering advice.
“It is getting very tight around fourth place, with the other teams behind us picking up points. Blackburn will be very tough to beat, especially after those recent defeats.”
Telford are currently embroiled in a three-team battle for that final play-off spot, with just a single point the difference to sixth place.
That will place extra emphasis on Saturday’s game, with the Hawks themselves on the verge of a second consecutive league title.
Parry added: “It has been nice to have a week or so off games, but that sort of thing isn’t always productive. Thankfully, it has given the injured guys a chance to rest.
“Saturday is a very important match for us, so the players need to perform at their best against Blackburn. We go into every game looking to pick up points, no matter who we play.”
Saturday’s game against Blackburn Hawks, at Telford Ice Rink, faces off at 5.30pm. Tigers EPL season ticket holders, and ticket stub holders, get in free.
You must be logged in to post a comment.