Manchester Storm netminder Drew DeRidder says Saturday’s game against Guildford Flames is an opportunity for the team to stamp their mark on a top half finish.

Paul Dixon’s men are coming to the Storm Shelter a point behind in the standings and looking to leapfrog Storm into the top half of the table.

And DeRidder is keen to widen the gap between the teams once they’ve done battle on Saturday night.

“Our three remaining games against Guildford are so important for us,” he said.

“A win on Saturday would really help us create a little separation in the standings.

We’re in a really tight race in the standings so every point matters. To get that win in Fife on the road, especially after the stretch we’ve had away from home, gives us a lot of confidence.

This time of year can make or break your season. It was a big deal for us to clinch a playoff spot but that is only the first step.

We need to keep our foot on the gas the rest of the season and finish as high as we can in the standings.

Games like Saturday are almost like four-point swings, so it’s a great opportunity for us to solidify our position in the standings.”

DeRidder also spoke about his enjoyment is playing at this time of year, with the play-offs on the horizon at the conclusion of the regular season.

But he’s also looking forward to being part of the Pink the Rink night at the Storm Shelter in support of the Prevent Breast Cancer charity.

“This time of year is why we play the game”, he added.

“It feels like we’re already playing play-off hockey, where every game is life or death.

Last weekend was the perfect example where we had a little breathing room in the standings, but our loss last Friday allowed teams behind us to catch up.

That’s how tight things are. It raises the intensity and I think we’re ready for the challenge.

Looking ahead to Saturday, we’re super excited for another specialty game. We have the best fans, and they give us so much energy every home game.

These nights just bring it to another level. At the same time, we’re playing for a great cause and we’re really proud to be part of something like that.”

By: Craig Anderson