Tigers chief Tom Watkins praised an improved defensive performance from his men, after they secured their second shut-out in as many weeks with victory over Hull Pirates.
Sunday’s 3-0 success on Humberside followed a 4-0 win in Milton Keynes the week before, and confirms Telford’s improving status as having one of the tightest rearguards in the EPL.
Both wins were backstopped by youngster Sam Gospel, but with highly-rated netminder Tom Murdy also in the Tigers ranks, Watkins believes improvements are showing across his squad.
He said: “It’s good for Sam, but the whole team has been playing much better defensively over the last few weeks. It’s great to have another clean sheet, but it’s also about the five guys in front of him.
“They’re all managing the puck well at the moment, making good decisions and not giving up odd-man rushes. Tonight was a good all-round effort from the whole team.”
Sunday night’s win came after goals from Peter Szabo and Blaho Novak gave The Tigers a 2-0 lead at the end of the first period.
A goalless second session was followed by another goal from Szabo after the break – his fifth of the weekend, after scoring a hat-trick in Saturday’s win 7-3 over Bracknell Bees.
Watkins added: “I’m really happy with how we controlled the game tonight and gave up very few shots. It’s all about doing the right thing and making the right decisions all night long.
“Blaho had a slow start to the year, but he’s played really well over the last few weeks and adds a lot to our offence. Having those depth guys is really important to us and helps with our energy levels.
“He’s a hugely important member of this team and likes to play aggressively when he needs to.
The Tigers now have an extended festive break from action, after their games scheduled for December 26th and 27th were postponed.
The clash with Hull Pirates, originally set for Boxing Day at Telford Ice Rink, has been moved to January 6th with a 7.30pm face-off.
And the trip to face Manchester Phoenix, due to take place on the 27th at Deeside Ice Rink, has also been delayed until the new year.
Their next game is on January 1st, when they travel to face Milton Keynes Lightning, before hosting Manchester in Telford the next day (6pm).
Telford forward Dan Davies will have surgery on an injury this week, and is likely to be missing from the line-up for up to six weeks.
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