Daring Barons raid Eagles nest

By Gareth Thomson

The Sheldon Jewellery Centre Solihull Barons head coach Darren Bellerby was satisfied by a convincing away display on Sunday against National Ice Hockey League basement side the Blackburn Eagles. "It was a long road trip to Lancashire but we stayed disciplined, stuck to the game plan, outshot them and came away with the points" said the coach after the tie.

In a scrappy game, it was the Barons who opened the scoring via Andrew Whitehouse after  just over 5 minutes. With little threat from Blackburn, two further goals from Jake Larkin and Eddie Slater saw the Barons end the period comfortably ahead.

The second period continued in much the same vein as a disorganised Blackburn started to give away minor penalties mid period. The Barons stretched their lead via a further four goals against an Eagles side who managed a single in compensation as they struggled to co-ordinate their efforts.

With the result in no doubt, it was a quiet final period, the Barons closing out the game and adding their final two goals of the night.

In his first start for the Barons, netminder Graham Laverick had a relatively easy evening but did what was asked of him and came away with the Man of the Match award.

With the Barons outshooting the Eagles 108 to 17 this tie was always going to be comfortable for Solihull. However after a couple of disappointing results, a good win sets the Barons up for the more challenging run of fixtures coming up.

This Sunday the Barons return to the Solihull rink for the first time in three weeks when they take on the Sheffield Senators. The Barons lost to the Yorkshire side when they travelled to their rink two weeks ago but home advantage and the home crowd should ensure the balance is tipped in favour of the Barons. Face off 6pm.

Goals : Whitehouse (2), Larkin (2), E Slater, Adams, R Slater, Eley, Hammerton
Assists : Brindle (2), Adams, Hunt, Whitehouse, Bakalar, Larkin, Allen (4), Lee
Man of the Match : Graham Laverick

Next Home Game The next home game is on the 11th November, once again versus the Senators. After defeat to the Sheffield side at the end of October the Barons will be expected to make up for this in front of their home support. Make sure you make it down to the rink and give the boys your support ! Face-off : 6pm Adults £6 : Concessions £3 Family ticket £16 (2 adults and up to 3 children)