NEWCASTLE, UK – Newcastle Vipers will be hoping that they can take all 4 points on offer to them this weekend as Danny Stewart’s side look to get back into the race for the last play off spot in this seasons Elite League. Vipers are currently 7 points behind the Dundee Stars who sit in 8th spot however Newcastle face fellow strugglers Edinburgh Capitals on home ice on Saturday evening (12th February) before taking on the Stars in Scotland the following night. Newcastle looked to be out of the play off race until Vipers sensationally beat the free spending Nottingham Panthers last weekend. Panthers held a 4-1 after 45 minutes of action however Vipers managed to hit 5 goals in the last 12 minutes of play to claim a thrilling 6-5 victory over Corey Neilson’s star studded roster.
Player/Coach Danny Stewart
Such a remarkable come back will have significantly increased the confidence in the Newcastle camp ahead of this weekends crucial double header. Vipers player/coach Danny Stewart was in superb form as he netted 2 goals as well as assisting on another 2 strikes. Stewart switched himself from the blue line into a more offensive role which certainly paid off against the side from the lace city. Stewart may well now opt to play more shifts as a forward however given how few bodies Vipers have in defence a permanent switch back to a forward role does not seem feasible at this moment in time. Local youngster Dean Holland also had a productive weekend as he scored Newcastle’s only goal at Braehead on the Saturday night before assisting on 2 goals in the Nottingham game.
Vipers forward Dean Holland
Holland rejoined Vipers earlier this season after brief spells with the Dundee Stars and the Manchester Phoenix in the EPL. Since returning to Tyneside Holland has impressed the Newcastle fans with a superb work rate and his ability to slot in the sides special teams. Dean has also been able to pick up a total of 15 (5+10) points already this term for Vipers which is a creditable tally for a young British player who is making his way in the game at the highest level. Vipers will be hoping that they continue the form they showed against Nottingham in both of their games this weekend. Newcastle home game on Saturday evening is a 7pm face off and fans are reminded that tickets can purchased right up until face off. Contact the author –
chris.mackenzie@prohockeynews.com Images courtesy of Paul Lynch Photography
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