Vladimir Nikiforov scored his first goal for Genting Casino Coventry Blaze as they secured a 2-1 victory at Dundee Stars in the Rapid Solicitors Elite League.
The American forward, named man of the match, got the go-ahead goal at 22.46 and Cale Tanaka’s fourth marker in three games at 43.37 made it 2-0.
Martin Cingel broke goaltender Brian Stewart’s shut-out at 53.48 but Blaze held on to register a fourth successive win.
Coach Chuck Weber said: “I am happy with the two points. We did a good job sticking to the game-plan and we created a number of chances but were lacking that finish.
“Vladimir had a much better game, he showed more creativity and he was crafty around the net. Cale went to the hard areas and Mike Egener did a great job getting a shot to the net. I have harped on to the boys that if you go to the paint you will get rewarded.”
Derek Lee and Jereme Tendler were healthy scratches for Blaze and Weber must now decide whether to change it for tomorrow’s trip to Edinburgh Capitals.
Weber added: “They are difficult decisions but they were great pros about it because they want to play and be a part of it.
“It is nice to have that choice because for 80 per cent of my time here we have not had enough bodies.”
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