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The Sheffield Steelers soared to the Elite League’s summit after the opening weekend of play, albeit aided by the fact that they were the only squad to play twice in the competition.
Aaron Fox’s side overcame adversity and outduelled the Coventry Blaze in their season opener, winning in overtime to the delight of the steel city faithful. They followed up their initial success with an eye-catching, 3-1 road win over the Guildford Flames the next day.
Elsewhere, the Fife Flyers won heavily against the Glasgow Clan, while the Manchester Storm raced to an important 3-2 win over the Nottingham Panthers in the Challenge Cup.
Here, British Ice Hockey explores what we learned from the first round of top-flight fixtures.
Coventry Blaze produce memorable rearguard action to defeat Cardiff Devils on opening weekend
The Blaze authored an impressive performance in their home opener, upsetting Pete Russell’s favourited Cardiff Devils 4-2 in the Challenge Cup on Sunday [24 September].
Coventry’s Taran Kozun, who spent last season with the Devils, was exceptional between the pipes, recording a .950 save percentage despite twice absorbing heavy collisions around his net.
While it was a performance to remember for the Canadian, his skating colleagues warrant credit for a brave defensive performance.
Cardiff enjoyed the lion’s share of puck possession – which is reflected in their dominance of the expected win stat – but created zero high-danger scoring chances and were mainly limited to shots outside the slot.
“We simplified our game [after falling behind in period two] and we got two goals and the lead from that,” said Stewart of his players’ performance.
“I could see some fatigue setting in with our legs in the third period. We’re still nowhere close to full game shape because the guys haven’t been together for long and playing at a high level two nights in a row caught up to them.
“But I think we were really smart with the puck and made some really good decisions, gaining lines and not turning pucks over. Saying that, we sat back a little more than I would’ve liked, absorbed pressure and allowed a few easy zone entries – but the guys did a great job.”
In other words, Stewart – while happy with the final outcome – expects his squad to defend their blueline more aggressively in the weeks to come, but was buoyed by an impressive defensive zone effort on the opening weekend.
Coventry will often revert to a simple game this season, especially when they enter the final period ahead, and it will win them points.
The Blaze look like a playoff team, to the surprise of few.
Manchester Storm acquire former NHL defenceman Joe Morrow
The Manchester Storm completed one of the signings of the summer on Monday [25 September], announcing the arrival of former NHLer Joe Morrow.
The 30-year-old arrives in the Elite League after spells as a member of the Boston Bruins, Montreal Canadiens, and Winnipeg Jets – in addition to stints in the American Hockey League, Kontinental Hockey League, and Finland’s Liiga.
“To be able to sign a player of Joe’s calibre is huge for our group,” explained Manchester head coach Matt Ginn.
“When he became available, we jumped at the opportunity to better ourselves. His experience in the top leagues around the world, including the NHL, will be invaluable to our group. Joe will be relied upon on both sides of the puck, and I’m thrilled to bring him on board.”
Morrow, who is only four seasons removed from a 41-game campaign with NHL Winnipeg, is an incredible addition for Manchester and should be expected to dominate his own zone this season.
Should we celebrate opening weekend time on ice trends in the Elite League?
Lastly, a question about time on ice trends in the Elite League – should we celebrate when players record heavy minute totals?
In the first weekend of the season, a handful of skaters amassed more than 25:00 minutes played – which is a high total by professional standards.
Week 1’s Big Minutes | #EIHL
The most minutes logged in a single game from opening weekend 💪 pic.twitter.com/3YQHyDh8I1
— Elite Ice Hockey League | #EIHL (@officialEIHL) September 25, 2023
With a long and challenging season ahead, will coaches come to regret throwing their stars onto the ice at every opportunity? Time will tell.
