EIHL Preview: Clan at Steelers – 22 September 2013

Sunday will see a return to the South Yorkshire for former Sheffield Steeler favourite Ryan Finnerty, as he brings his Braehead Clan to the Motorpoint Arena for the first time this year. Finnerty, who played four years with the Steelers spread over three separate stints, returns to Sheffield as Head coach of the Clan amid a buzz of anticipation amongst fans.

For the Steelers though this represents not only a homecoming, but a chance to climb the Elite League standings. Having played only two league games this year, the Steelers find themselves sitting in 8th position with just two points, and already trailing their top of the table rivals.

The Clan game comes at the end of a busy week for the Steelers, who picked up a hard fought 4-3 Challenge Cup win against Hull midweek, and will travel to Nottingham in the cup on Saturday.

Slowly but surely things seem to becoming together for Head Coach Doug Christinasen, whose new signings are looking finally like they are settling in together on the Ice having turned in some up and down performances so far in the season. The Steelers though have been able to rely on some of their more established talent, particularly Jonathan Phillips, who has turned in top level performances in front of the Arena fans both times the Steelers have come home.

Even though Braehead got off to a slow start this season they are starting to pick up wins or are involved in very close defeats which is a good sign for Clan fans and coach alike. Other good signs are that the Clan have a new tough physical side that can also score goals that will hopefully bring a successful season.

The Steelers will not just have to play against their old coach but two former teammates in Chris “The Tank” Frank and Lee Esders who will be hoping for a good reception from Steelers’ fans for their efforts in Sheffield colours.

Contributor: Michael McLaughlin