Finlinson the star man in Warriors’ victory over league leaders

WHITLEY Warriors claimed the scalp of North Ice Hockey League leaders Sheffield Steeldogs at Hillheads last night - triumphing 4-1.

The Warriors were unlucky not to take the lead late in the opening period of action, twice going close in a matter of minutes.

Phil Edgar almost opened the scoring before an effort from Dean Holland which hit the back of the net was ruled out by the match officials.

However, it was the Steeldogs who grabbed the opening goal of the game on 37 minutes when the hardworking Ashley Calvert found the net from close range, Greg Wood and Ben Morgan being credited with the assists.

The third period of play saw Warriors take the game to the Steeldogs and they levelled on 50 minutes when Adam Finlinson finished neatly into the bottom corner.

Shaun Kippin fired the hosts into the lead three minutes later from close range after Brandon Stones had saved Kippin’s initial effort.

The Warriors now looked full of energy and they made it 3-1 when Kippin grabbed his second goal of the game with a sweet finish.

Dean Holland was able to fire home an empty-net goal to seal the impressive victory.

Afterwards, Finlinson was deservedly selected as the Warriors’ man of the match for his solid all-round display.