Sunday hockey at iceSheffield saw the Bristol Pitbulls make their second visit to the Steel City. Both teams were fighting for points from the weekend and put on a great game for the fans.
The Steeldogs welcomed back Sam Cooper but were still without Jonathan Phillips and Jason Hewitt. Hayden Oates continued as back up netminder.
During the first period, the Steeldogs came out with real intent. The lines were rolling and the team got a good feel for the puck. Sheffield were creative and put pressure on the Pitbulls goal. Ben Morgan was the first Dog to get on the scoreboard on 10:43 during a power play and Vlads Vulkanovs added a second goal on 12:02. The Steeldogs looked confident and comfortable. 2-0
At the start of the second period, the Steeldogs opened up the play and Matt Bissonnette showed great patience to score a third goal. The Dogs were relentless in their possession, passing and offensive work. Cam Brownley made it 4 – 0 on 25:49, followed by another Ben Morgan goal 5 minutes later. The Pitbulls were not down and out, they had plenty in the locker. Sheffield’s defence worked well as a unit and kept the Pitbulls at bay until Morris got the puck beyond Zimozdra. Right on the buzzer James Spurr got a 6th goal short-handed for the Steeldogs. A dominant period of hockey from the Steeldogs left them 6-1 up at the end of the second.
The third period saw the Pitbulls score twice, Feasey then Morris again. The Steeldogs kept pushing on but there was no more scoring in the game. Hayden Oates got the last few minutes in goal, making a couple of good saves. There were several great performances on the night, Ben Morgan’s two goals, Vlads Vulkanovs, Cam Brownley and Matt Bissonnette with 3 points each but James Spurr showed experience and class tonight. He was awarded the Steeldogs man of the match. Former Steeldog Reece Cochrane took the award for the Pitbulls.
End of the game Steeldogs 6-3 Pitbulls.
Don’t forget the Steeldogs will be at home on Tuesday 13th February as the Hull Seahawks are in town. It will be another edge of the seat match up between the teams – be there!