Phoenix fall to Hull in overtime

Sunday, 11th October 2015

Manchester Phoenix hosted the Hull Pirates in Deeside on Sunday evening for the second game of a home double-header.

In a first period of few chances, it was Phoenix who made the breakthrough at 6:49 when on-loan Deeside Dragons forward Simon Furnival deflected in James Neil’s shot for his first Phoenix goal. Hull netminder Jon Baston dealt with powerful slapshots from Stanislav Gron and James Archer as Phoenix sought to extend their lead as the period ended 1-0.

Hull responded immediately at the start of the second period as Finnish forward Tommi Laine netted from a tight angle following a save from Steve Fone only 29 seconds in. Phoenix then laid siege to the Hull goal, but despite three Powerplay opportunities and Robin Kovar striking the post, the home side were unable to break through. Fone also had to be alert to deny Hull’s Sam Towner on a breakaway late in the period which ended 1-1.

The third period followed a similar pattern with Baston denying a series of Phoenix chances including a one-on-one opportunity from Satek as the visitors forced overtime. A Phoenix turnover then allowed Warren Tait to net the winning goal for Hull, and as the visitors claimed their first win of the season.

Coach Tony Hand commented: “It’s disappointing that despite having most of the play, we were unable to take numerous chances which came our way. Credit to Hull and their netminder who made it very difficult for us but we need to regroup and focus on Guildford and Swindon next weekend.”

Phoenix are at home next Sunday evening against the Swindon Wildcats, with a 6:30pm face-off in Deeside.