Leeds Knights Weekend Preview
Hockey action returns to the Castle this weekend for the Leeds Knights as they prepare for a crucial top-of-the-table clash against the current league leaders, Milton Keynes Lightning, in a highly anticipated two-game showdown.
The first game will take place at Planet Ice Milton Keynes on Saturday evening, with the puck dropping at 19:00. The Knights, currently just one point behind the Lightning, will be aiming to close the gap and take control of the league standings.
The 2nd game will take place at The Castle on Sunday at 17:15. A large crowd is expected for what could prove to be the most important matchup of the season so far for Leeds.
The Knights head into this weekend unbeaten in two, following a dramatic comeback victory away to Yorkshire rivals Sheffield Steeldogs. After finding themselves three goals down, the Knights showed remarkable resilience, finishing with a stunning 7-3 victory. Manager Aldridge reflected on the performance, saying, "We just had that feeling," in reference to the team’s incredible turnaround.
That was followed by a solid 4-2 victory over third-place Swindon Wildcats at home, putting the Knights in a strong and positive position ahead of this pivotal clash with Milton Keynes.
As the Knights look to score maximum points over the weekend, Sam Gospel, the brick wall in net and man of the match in the victory against Swindon, will be key in keeping the MK Lightning at bay. Gospel currently boasts the highest save percentage in the NIHL with an outstanding 91.79%. His performance will be crucial as Leeds face one of the league’s most potent offenses.
Milton Keynes Lightning come into the weekend with the highest goal-per-game ratio in the league, averaging 4.88 goals per game, making them a real offensive threat. However, the Knights have the lowest goals-against average in the league at 2.58, making this a true clash of titans at the top of the standings.
“This is the most important game of the year,” Aldridge stated ahead of the weekend, emphasizing the significance of the upcoming series for both teams.
The Knights have been on an impressive run, and with key players like Baron, Brown, and Haywood stepping up in recent games, Leeds will be looking to prove they are ready to take over the top spot and continue their push for the league title.
With both teams in excellent form, this weekend promises to be an exciting and hard-fought series. The Knights are ready to prove they belong at the top, and with a full roster of players stepping up in critical moments, Leeds will be determined to make a statement.
Words by Tyler Barker
