TELFORD, UK – The Tigers are in the final of the British Challenge Cup after a 5-2 win over Guildford Flames at Telford Ice Rink on Wednesday night.
They now go on to meet either Manchester Phoenix or Swindon Wildcats, in their first major cup final since 1998.
Those two teams meet in the second semi-final on Thursday night, with the scores tied at 3-3 after the first leg.
Tigers Head Coach Tom Watkins, who took the reins at Telford in 2009, paid tribute to the club’s achievement.
He said: “It is exciting for me. It has been five years here at the club and I didn’t realise we would be in this position, five years on.
“Getting to the final is great for everyone here, from the players to the management and the fans. For a large part, the guys in the stands have been here since day one.”
Telford started the game with a one-goal advantage over Guildford, following their 4-3 victory in Surrey last week.
And it was Peter Szabo who gave The Tigers an immediate lead, with a goal after just two minutes.
The hosts extended that advantage in the second period, thanks to to further strikes from Jason Silverthorn, Rupert Quiney, Dan Davies and Szabo.
That rounded off the Telford scoring, with Guildford snatching two consolation goals in the third period.
Watkins added: “It was a great second period and that was the big difference tonight. Before the game, we wanted to create a sence of urgency about the first goal, so to score so early was mentally huge for us.
“We got a couple of good bounces tonight. Our powerplay was great and the momentum of that second period was very important.
“In the third period, Guildford battled well and got their own reward with the two goals.”
Wednesday night’s success gave Telford a 9-5 aggregate victory over the former EPL Cup winners.
The Tigers return to English Premier League action on Sunday, when they make the trip to play Bracknell Bees.
Their next home game is on Saturday, 21st February, when they host Manchester Phoenix at Telford Ice Rink (6pm).
All photos courtesy of Telford Tigers
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