Telford Tigers put in 'gutsy' performance in win

Following a double-winning weekend last time out, Telford had to withstand some pressure at Romford.

Watkins was pleased with his side's determined performance as they added to the winning column in the NIHL National League.

He said: “We gave a gutsy and gritty performance and got a terrific result against a team who have had a great start to the season and occupy a top four spot in the league. 

"We had a very challenging last 10, 15 minutes of the game where we ended short handed, including a lengthy five on three penalty kill. 

"Brad (Day) was solid all night. They say your goalie has to be your best penalty killer which he was but all the players have done such a good job over the last five games, showing a good understanding of what is needed and buying into the structure but also committing to blocking shots and playing hard. 

"Special teams win or lose you games and I certainly feel it was a reason we were successful. A great job by the team to get a well deserved two points."

Tigers were the better side for most of the first period and opened the scoring in the fifth minute when Romford’s defence went missing allowing Eric Henderson a two man break away with David Thomson. Henderson waited out Raiders’ net minder Ethan James and shot low into the net when James was expecting a pass to Thomson. 

Telford doubled their lead and Henderson and Thomson were involved again when Henderson sent a terrific pass from the top of the right circle to the unmarked Thomson who sent a first time shot into the open net for Tigers’ second goal.

Late in the period, a penalty was called against Adam Harding for tripping sending the Tigers’ penalty kill unit back out. With Raiders having an extra player, it was a surprise that Telford would score next whilst short handed. Henderson and Thomson led another break away with Thomson sending a pass across goal for Henderson to finish off and score his second of the game putting Tigers ahead by three goals.

Romford hit back midway through the second period when Jake Sylvester scored from close range but almost immediately Tigers restored their three goal lead with a fourth goal as Henderson completed his hat trick.

As the period entered the final five minutes, Raiders reduced the deficit with a second goal before adding a third shortly after.

But Thomson added his second goal of the contest, and Telford's fifth and they saw off some Romford pressure to finish 6-3 winners.