Ice Hockey: Devils ignoring the Phillips factor

Nov 28 2007 South Wales Echo

CARDIFF Devils will ignore the Bob Phillips factor in tonight’s Elite League ice hockey Challenge Cup semi-final against Sheffield Steelers in Cardiff Bay.

Former Devils owner Phillips now runs Sheffield, having handed over control of Cardiff to new owners Martin Moloney and James Hill last summer.

And the two clubs clash over two legs in a quest to win the Challenge Cup. Cardiff, who lifted the trophy two seasons ago, play Steelers at home this evening and then in South Yorkshire next Wednesday.

“I don’t care about Bob Phillips, he does not come into the equation,” said Devils’ general manager and bench coach Brent Pope. “The bottom line is that Sheffield are a good hockey team.

“But I don’t think they are as good as we are.

“If we play to our capabilities I believe we will win over two games.

“We respect Sheffield as a hockey club and as a business, but on the ice Cardiff have the goods.”

But the Cardiff Devils received a blow after captain Brad Voth was ruled out of tonight’s cup clash after a one-match penalty following his fight with Newcastle’s Andre Payette during the 4-3 win, was upheld.

With Mike Prpich still on his way back from a knee injury, Cardiff badly needed to have Voth available this evening.

The Devils have endured a punishing fixture list of seven matches in 14 days, including tonight’s cup tie, which puts incredible pressure on every player.

“The guys are doing a remarkable job,” said player-coach Gerad Adams.

“They are fatigued, but every player is giving everything they have.

“Devils fans are passionate and they can help us so much. Their support during the match against Newcastle was phenomenal – and they can lift us again this evening.”

Tickets for tonight’s game are available on the door at the Cardiff Bay rink or from the box office at Cardiff 029 2038 2001.