Ice Hockey: Garrow is defensive kingpin

Nov 23 2007 by Terry Phillips, South Wales Echo

MIKE Garrow is a player at the heart of Cardiff Devils’ remarkable charge to the top of ice hockey’s Elite League.

And tomorrow evening, at Coventry’s Skydome, Garrow will have a crucial role in Cardiff’s top of the table clash with reigning champions Coventry Blaze (7pm).

Home side Blaze are fuming after being knocked off top spot following Cardiff’s 8-3 win against Edinburgh Capitals at the Cardiff Bay rink.

Now come even bigger tests – against Coventry away tomorrow and third-placed Newcastle Vipers at home on Sunday (6pm).

While Cardiff’s fearsome first line – SilveMikerthorn, Deschatalets and Birbraer – earn the plaudits with their 95 points between them already this season, Garrow and his fellow defenceman are performing a job of equal quality.

The experienced Garrow is back at his best and has played a key role in Cardiff’s 11 successive League victories.

He is backed up by Tyson Teplitsky, who is the top scoring defenceman in Elite League hockey with nine goals and 15 assists, Welshmen Jason Stone and Alex Symonds plus player-coach Gerad Adams on defence.

They protect goalie Phil Osaer, who has also been at the peak of his powers during Cardiff Devils’ charge up the table.

But it’s Garrow, 32, who has caught the eye with his tenacity, timing and sheer impact on play.

He has quietly upped his game, having returned to playing after a break, and he is now, along with Teplitsky, among the most highly-rated import D-men in Britain.

“It’s been a huge team effort,” said bench coach Brent Pope. “Just over a week ago we were looking at playing four matches in seven days saying it would test everybody to the limit.

“We won all four and now we play the other two teams in the top three of the League table – and then take on Sheffield Steelers in a Challenge Cup semi-final next Wednesday.

“The effort being put in by every player shows the work they put in off the ice to stay in peak condition. They are fit, believe in each other and believe they can win going into every match.”

Coventry coach Paul Thompsonis concerned that home fans at the Skydome will turn on his players if they are frustrated by teams going there to keep things tight.

“Teams put five players behind the puck and that makes it hard for us,” said Thompson.

“Then the fans start moaning. We have to forget all about that, stay patient and grind the opposition down.

“We are well placed and if we can keep chipping away there’s no reason why we can’t win the league again.”

terry.phillips@mediawales.co.uk