Tom Watkins calls for caution from Tigers

Tigers travel to the Thunderdome on Saturday for the first leg, before Sunday night's final home game of the season against Milton Keynes at Telford Ice Rink.

Watkins' men held the upper hand over their opponents during the league campaign, with five wins out of six – including two shut-outs at their home rink in Milton Keynes.

But, with Telford having conceded 13 goals in two games last weekend, the Tigers chief will demand an improve defensive display, as he looks to secure a place at next month's finals competition.

He said: "We looked at ourselves in the mirror after last weekend's games, and one thing that I expect against Milton Keynes is for us to be very good in defence.

"We've done that at times against them this year, but we do go to sleep sometimes in the defensive zone. If you do that in the play-offs, then you will get punished.

"It goes both ways, though and things happen, like penalties and mistakes, and capitalising on mistakes. It's just a case of playing the game as simple and as fast as we can.

"We'll need smart energy, lots of good depth and we have to be as effective as we can, putting lots of pucks on net and making their goaltenders work.

"A key battleground will be the special teams on both sides. In two close games, I am sure that sort of thing will probably be the difference."

Tigers bosses are expecting a sell-out crowd for Sunday night's game, with online ticket sales having so far having broken the record for this season.

And Watkins believes a full Telford Ice Rink could play a vital role in the second leg.

He said: "When this building is full and when it's got a good atmosphere, with that noise and energy, it is massive for us. The place comes alive and makes for a much better spectacle.

"The fans have a part to play as much as the players. We hope to give them something to shout about, but we need them behind us. The fans also have to give us a kick if we need it to find a way.

"Let's not wait for each other to do something before we bring some life to the building. I am sure there will be plenty of energy here come Sunday evening.

"We win together and we lose together, and that is how sport works in my head. When we win, the fans share the highs as they did last season, so let's hope we can do that this year."

Saturday night's away game against Milton Keynes Lightning starts at 7pm. On Sunday, the two teams face-off at 6pm, at Telford Ice Rink.

For tickets to the home game on Sunday, go to www.tigershockeyuk.com.