After a good few weeks of ever increasing frustration from a vocal element of the Phoenix fanbase (Frustrated, Inc. if you like), the first pair of signings for the forthcoming EPIHL season have been revealed. And it certainly was worth the wait…
First up is returning hero Michal Psurny. We all know exactly what we are getting here. Returning for a 2nd season at the Dome, Psurny will certainly continue to be a fan favourite, even more so given his showing at the play offs. 89 points (43 goals) was a stunning start to his career in the UK last season, and I would assume he would be looking to continue onwards in the same manner, if not improve on that tally. And yes, I’ve had that song in my head all day.
The 2nd signing is a new, if familiar, face to the Dome. Frantisek Bakrlik joins the Phoenix from the Slough Jets, after a more than decent first season in the EPIHL. He bagged 82 points, and an impressive 161 penalty minutes, utilising his 6’5″ frame very effectively. A solid, heavy set power forward is something that the Phoenix have lacked in recent seasons, so Bakrlik should add a different dimension to the Phoenix attack, despite being prone to the occasional ‘red mist’ (something Coach Hand is expert at controlling). Prior to joining Slough in the EPIHL, he also enjoyed a season in the EIHL, icing for Coventry, Hull, and Fife.
Assuming these two will be paired up with Tony Hand, I’d expect to see both of them touching triple figures for their points tallies come the seasons end. Certainly both will be disappointed if they fail to equal their hauls of last season. I know as a fan, I’d be disappointed if that were the case. Indeed, I’m expecting another 300+ point season for the 1st line overall.
So, thoughts?