Jets Blast 18-10-08

Our home opener saw us lose 5-4 to the Hawks on 13th September, with penalty trouble and a Wayne Slater hat-trick costing us a result.

Last weekend, Blackburn picked up 3 cup points with a draw at home to Flintshire, and a 7-5 win in Flintshire the following evening.

So far in the league, Blackburn have lost at home to Newcastle, Nottingham & Whitley Bay. They lost 5-3 in Billingham, and their only win was against us.

We are currently placed 6th in the 8 team league, but there is a worrying gap opening above us. We need two points this evening! Whitley Bay host Nottingham tomorrow night, in what should be a barn burner.

We have trained hard over recent weeks, and last weekend saw us put up a real challenge to Sheffield.
Sam returned to the team, but with Ben Milhench missing through injury, and Hacko, Jordan & Richie out, we were up against it. Sheffield had 20 players on the bench, and started brightly with a 2-0 lead (Manning & Barron goals) at the end of the first, out shooting us by 18 to 8.

A third Sheffield goal from Squires on 32:59 saw Sheffield switch off somewhat. Jets then kicked into life, and 2 minutes later Sayer moved in from the point, and remained composed as he fired home a powerplay goal after good work from Cobs & Flo. Holmsey was standing on his head by this stage, and although we piled on the pressure with 21 shots, Bowns conceded just the one second period goal. Period tied 1-1.

The final period ended 0-0, and we again out shot our visitors (17-7), and finished strongly.
Final score 1-3.

It was disappointing to learn before last weekends’ game that Jordan Davies had stepped down from the team. Jordan is one of a handful of players who had grown & improved through Kingston Junior IHC, and he had developed into a steady ENIHL defenseman…with a fierce shot! However, he’s decided that he wants to leave, so we wish him well.

Our line-up has seen many chops and changes so far, and once Andy is able to get the lads playing with regular line-mates, I’m sure we’ll see the season turn round. The dressing room benefits greatly from Andy allowing the lads to discuss their performances honestly & without fear. It’s great to hear Flo give his ideas and experience to the discussions, and great that the lads allow everyone to contribute. Everyone listens, something that was not always achieved last year. Contributions are about the team effort, and not the shortcomings of individuals. We are really growing together, as a unit. It will take some time for us to fully benefit from this, but the signs are there.

I spend a lot of time listening to Andy. His coaching style, and knowledge of the game are first class. However, I believe his dressing room manner, and the environment he creates have a major impact. He has quite literally started to turn boys into men.
If you get a chance, talk to Andy about the game…you’ll be most impressed, I’m sure.

Programme sales are rather low this season. I’m hoping that someone will step forward, and help us to sell them. Thanks to those who have tried. Every single pound helps KJIHC. Coach costs have increased dramatically due to raised fuel prices, and we do have an immediate need to claw in some cash.

One answer is to talk to friends at school, work, in the pub, and to invite them down to a Jets game.
Cubs, scouts, brownies, football teams, cricket clubs, youth clubs, societies…if you know any…invite them down. Speak with me and I’m sure we can arrange something special.
If you give their name to Tony in the penalty box, he’ll make sure they are welcomed. Every extra bum on a seat helps the team, both financially & inspirationally. Please do what you can…thank you!

See you for a beer afterwards?

Cheers!
Go Jets!

Clint.