By Alex Briggs
Sheffield Steelers recently lost their five-game winning streak, as they were downed 4-0 away to bottom placed Dundee Stars.
Over the course of a 52 game season, even the very best team hits a block in the road. For the reigning back-to-back champions their first of the 2016/17 seasons came in the shape of the faltering Dundee Stars.
Twenty-four hours before their second league loss of the season, Paul Thompson’s men survived a scare after blowing a 5-1 first period lead to the Edinburgh Capitals.
Thompson’s main objective to repair the previous year’s defensive woes was re-signing Ervins Mustukovs in the off-season. Yet the way in which the goals were conceded, along with the actual count, has fans voicing their displeasure.
One supporter took to social media to show her displeasure, saying: “Come on guys. At 5-2 in Edinburgh we shouldn’t have ended up playing in overtime. 4-0 tonight proves something wrong in defence. Tommo needs to sort it.”
What many fans are overlooking, is the fact that the Sheffield Steelers currently sit tied for second place having played nine games and winning seven. But with such a passionate fan base not that used to losing, some are clearly not taking too kindly to these recent results.
Club official, David Simms, has responded to the critics. “So Steelers lost a game – get over it!” he told The Sheffield Star.
To be fair, a four hour coach trip is never the best thing to contend with, especially when facing two difficult home teams north of the border. Fatigue was a massive factor on what was already a shortened bench side.
“Sheffield Steelers’ top players have to excel every night – or the team is going to lose,” was how Bob Westerdale of the Sheffield Star reported on the game.
Perhaps fans should look more towards the offensive contributions of the side, as numerous players wasted golden opportunities who would normally be backed to score.