It was a match in which Vipers had more than their share of possession, and out-shot their opponents by 33 to 21. However, it would be the home team with the better quality shots on net, that would take their chances, and put some goals on the scoreboard. Billingham took the first period 2-0, the second 3-0 and the final period 1-0. It was a game that was closer than the score line suggests. There was some good plays by the D-men, both from blocking shots and stepping up on the blue line. The forwards also managed to pass the puck, and put a lot of pressure on the opponents net, but we just lacked a certain finishing quality!

The result leaves Billingham on top of the Division 1 North table and the Vipers with a 3 in their loss column. Speaking to local reporters after the game, coach Romek said "Its not a good result, but the season is not over...we have 4 games left to play, and I want to win every game that is left. Hopefully, we will be able to work on some aspects of the game that need the most attention and improve on these in the remaining games." Unfortunately, due to the dialect problems, most of that was lost in translation!

On an even sadder note, this was Emma Wilko's last match. She will be missed greatly by her team mates, but we wish her all the best in the land down under. I have been told that she will be swapping her skates for a surf board - a much more dangerous sporting activity. At least, I have never seen any sharks roaming the corridors of the NIC - or have I...?!

Man of the Match limerick:

There was once a Viper, Jade Cito
Whose hair was always perfecto!
On Sunday she was great
A ref'ree she does date
And she wears her hairband like Rambo!