Key to our success

Whitley Warriors coach Garry Dowd will ask his side to repeat the form that saw them beat Blackburn Hawks twice last weekend when Telford Titans visit Hillheads tomorrow night.

“We got a lot of things right at both ends of the ice in those games and that was the key to our success,” he said.

“However, Telford are a funny side to play against because they are set upto spoil the opposition rather than attack them; so we have to be sure we find ways to make them change their game plan.

“We passed the puck very well against Blackburn and if we can do that again tomorrow,” he added, “that as much as anything will frustrate their tactics and ensure it is a more open game.”

The two victories over Blackburn saw the Warriors establish themselves as title contenders - especially as league leaders Billingham Stars could take only one point from their two games – and Dowd knows his side face a vital three games in December.

“We have just the three games and they are all at home,” he said, “so it’s important that we win them all to keep some pressure on the Stars; especially as the last one is on December 18th against the league leaders.”

And with that game in mind, Dowd would love to see some crowd momentum this month, as his side build up to that first meeting with their Teesside rivals at Hillheads in more than two years.

“We know it is not a good time of the year to fit everything in,” he said, “but we have built a little momentum on the ice and the lads could only benefit from some extra support in the stands.

“The last time the Titans were at Whitley the result was in doubt until the last 10 minutes and the atmosphere was fantastic, so hopefully we will get a good crowd for this game and the other December fixtures,” continued the coach.

Martin Crammond returns to the Warriors bench tomorrow after missing the Blackburn games, but Callum Pattison is a doubt after taking a puck to the wrist last Sunday.

“It was a very brave thing to throw yourself in the way of the puck like he did,” admitted Dowd, “but that shows the commitment we have in the squad and if Callum doesn’t make it, Martin will come in as a direct swap.”

Tickets for the home game with Telford tomorrow are available on the night, priced at Adults £7.50, Under 16’s & Concessions £5.50, while a Family Ticket is available for £22. The action gets underway at 5.00pm, with the doors open 30 minutes before face-off.