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Archer to shoot for Phoenix

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Manchester Phoenix ice hockey club has signed 22 year-old forward James Archer from former Elite League side Hull Stingrays.

Archer joined Hull from EPL team Sheffield Scimitars part way through last season and had re-signed for the forthcoming campaign, but financial problems forced Stingrays out of business last week, and Phoenix player coach Tony Hand moved swiftly to snap up the Sheffield-born scorer.

Tony Hand said: "I heard a few rumblings about what was happening at Hull, but I didn't pay too much attention because this is part of what happens in hockey. But when I heard that they were definitely going, I knew we needed to sign another British player and I saw the opportunity to sign James as a replacement for Robert Farmer."

Farmer initially signed for Phoenix in the close season, but subsequently took up an opportunity to play in the USA.

"James is, quite simply, a really good hockey player. He's a good skater, he's tough, he's got energy and he gets goals. That's exactly what we are looking for.

"I think he's going to be a great addition to the side on and off the ice."

As well as Scimitars, Archer has played for Peterborough Phantoms and Milton Keynes Lightning in the EPL, and Elite League sides Coventry Blaze and Basingstoke Bison.

Archer said: "It's true that I was devastated about what happened at Hull. I was looking forward to the challenge of a first full season in the Elite league.

"But I have put that behind me now and I am looking forward to this season with the Phoenix. I know all about Tony and how he works, and I can't wait to meet the rest of the team and get started."

Archer added that he will bring an all-round team ethos to the Phoenix - and he won't be afraid to stand up for his colleagues.

"I have a lot of grit and determination that I bring to the game. I like getting involved and scoring goals.

"But I am a team player through and through. I will make chances for the other guys and I will stand up for them if needs be. I am no stranger to dropping the gloves and I won't hesitate this season if anyone takes liberties."

Tony Hand added that he was still looking at import players to fill the two remaining non-British slots on the Phoenix roster.

"I'm looking all the time, and always speaking to agents. We still have three weeks and I want to make sure we are signing the right players, not just getting imports for the sake of it."