Report by Peter Ryan / Photos by James Assinder
Join us for our opening home game of the new season against Solent Devils on Sunday 27th September at 6:45pm. Click HERE to book your tickets online and beat the queues on the door.
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Swindon Wildcats 2Pre-Season: Cardiff Fire vs Swindon Wildcats 2
Sunday 27th September | Vindico Arena, Cardiff
The Cardiff Fire ushered in a brand-new era in style, securing a 3-0 pre-season victory over the Swindon Wildcats 2 in front of over 500 supporters. Cardiff kick-started their pre-season in the right way, building a solid foundation for the campaign ahead with clinical scoring and a clean sheet on home ice. There was a lot for the Red Army to smile about when leaving the Vindico Arena on Sunday night, and this impressive win shows there is plenty to be excited about as the new NIHL 1 South season approaches.
The match
The energy was electric as the Fire returned to the ice. Pre-season is all about sharpening oneโs talent whilst being tested against quality opposition. Swindon provided a stellar test; as soon as the puck dropped, you knew both teams were going to give it their all for the win. The opening minutes saw the two sides wrestling for possession. Cardiff were searching for the opening goal.
The Fire broke the tie when Alfie Stone found the back of the net. New signing Rhys Smetham was credited with the assist. Dylan Webb gave Cardiff their second right at the end of the first 20. The opening period ended with the Fire holding a two-goal advantage, Cardiff truly made the most of eight minutes in the powerplay. Both teams fought hard throughout the second period, and the score remained unchanged. The two sides had chances when on the fast break but failed to make it count. The contest continued Swindon where looking to make a comeback, whilst the Fire looked to hold firm.
Owen Smetham secured the victory and added Cardiffโs third and final goal. In a game where many players shone, Ben Scanlan really stood out, earning the player of the match award. As previously stated, it was a brilliant performance with a tremendous amount to build from.
Stats
Numbers always tell a fascinating story. The stats suggest the Fire had to work hard for the win. Cardiff created more with six assists than their opponents' zero; the visitors produced more shots on goal, with 39 compared to 35 for the Fire. Rhys Smetham created a tremendous amount contributing three assists. Discipline was a massive factor in the contest. Swindon had six more penalty minutes, and all of the Fireโs goals came from the power play. It is no wonder Scanlan was player of the match, with the home teamโs 39 saves and a 100% save percentage. The stats show how clinical the Fire can be; it will be interesting to see what they can do in the upcoming games.
Next up
The Fire will head to Romford to open their campaign against the Romford Buccaneers on 19 September. Fans can support their side in league action for the first time on the 27th, when the Solvent Devils come to town.
A new campaign is rapidly approaching. With players in the squad, a steadfast fanbase, and a burning desire and passion for success.
Goal Summary
| Time | Goal | Assists |
|---|---|---|
| 8:42 | 10 Alfie Stone (PP) | 12 Rhys Smetham, 97 Elis Sheppard |
| 19:12 | 13 Dylan Webb (PP) | 12 Rhys Smetham, 72 Owen Smetham |
| 42:11 | 72 Owen Smetham (PP) | 12 Rhys Smetham, 10 Alfie Stone |
Click HERE to view the team stats.
