The Newcastle Northstars is eyeing off another successful campaign when the Australian Ice Hockey League (AIHL) returns to the rink this weekend.
Following a strong hit-out against the Central Coast Rhinos a fortnight ago, which resulted in 6-4 and 10-3 victories, the 2022 Goodall Cup finalists open their 2023 account in Melbourne.
The Kevin Noble-coached outfit faces the Melbourne Mustangs on Saturday 15 April and backs up less than 24 hours later to meet the Melbourne Ice on Sunday 16 April, with both encounters at the O’Brien Icehouse.
Captain Liam Manwarring said the Northstars were eager to tackle the latest AIHL competition.
“We’re looking forward to the [official] start of the season,” he stated.
“Playing on different sides in a different league throughout the summer, we’ve developed a few bad habits.
“Now, we’re focusing on getting all the good ones back.
“And, there is always room to improve.
“So, it’s about the smart plays, setting little goals individually early on and moving forward and building together as a team.”
Against the Rhinos, Manwarring led by example, scoring a hat-trick, along with Daniel Berno.
He’s confident that form will hold the Northstars in good stead moving forward.
“It is always tough going into a new season with new goals,” he said.
“But, we definitely showed what kind of team we’ve got this year… and we are still missing half our roster.
“The young boys stepped up a lot and credit to our goaltending, I was so proud of how all three of our goalies performed against Central Coast.
“Getting goals always feels good… and scoring that first goal for the team is the best because you know it lifts the side.
“However, it doesn’t take just one guy out there.
“I’m more focused on the team and credit to all the boys for my hat-trick.”
New additions to the AIHL in 2023 are the Brisbane Lightning and Rhinos.
Australian Ice Hockey League
Round one draw (Saturday 15 April):
- 3.30pm: Brisbane Lightning v Central Coast Rhinos (Erina Ice Arena)
- 5pm: Newcastle Northstars v Melbourne Mustangs (O’Brien Icehouse, Melbourne)
- 5pm: Sydney Bears v Sydney Ice Dogs (Macquarie Ice Rink, Sydney)
- 4.30pm (AWST): Adelaide Adrenaline v Perth Thunder (Perth Ice Arena)
Round two draw (Sunday 16 April):
- 2pm: Newcastle Northstars v Melbourne Ice (O’Brien Icehouse, Melbourne)
- 3.30pm: CBR Brave v Central Coast Rhinos (Erina Ice Arena)
- 5pm: Brisbane Lightning v Sydney Ice Dogs (Macquarie Ice Rink, Sydney)
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