Manchester Storm coach Cameron Critchlow says his team have impressed for a while, but keeping professional is the key to not getting too excited.

Storm took another three points from the weekend to put them five points clear of Guildford Flames in fifth place, with an opportunity to close the four-point gap on Saturday’s opponents, Sheffield Steelers coming up.

And Critchlow has been happy with the efforts of his players as they continue to pick up points really strengthen their play-off chances.

“This group has continued to impress for quite a while now and I’ve been proud of their efforts so far,”

he said.

“⁠⁠We want our group to enjoy the wins and that’s something you can’t overlook. But it comes down to being professional, enjoy the victories but moving on and getting prepared for the following week.”

Sheffield are next with a trip to the Utilita Arena to come tomorrow and Storm will face a team bereft of form, winning only two of their last nine and just out of two heavy losses to Belfast Giants.

Then on Sunday, it’s Pride Night and another big event at the Storm Shelter with a sell out looking likely for the visit from the Giants, something Critch is looking forward to.

He added:

“⁠⁠I expect Sheffield to come out flying on Saturday. We know what kind of firepower they have on their side, and we will have to be at our best. 

“With that being said, if we can have a strong start and get an early lead, I like our chances.

“Then on Sunday, it’s the Pride game and it’s something that has been a big event as long as I’ve been here.

“I think we all know this game means more in Manchester and we want everyone to be welcomed to the Storm Shelter, an atmosphere we try to provide in our home arena.”

 

By: Craig Anderson