Romford Raid for star Lee

May 29 2007 By The Evening Chronicle

Vipers back-up netminder Mark Lee has agreed to a loan move to the English Premier League's Romford Raiders.

Lee, a product of the Mobilx Vipers Academy, joined the senior Vipers in 2004 as back-up to Canadian Doug Teskey for the club's third British National League campaign.

After a successful 2006-07 season with the Vipers that saw him back-up for the injured Peter Aubry and rack up a 91.3% save percentage in 23 games, Lee was called up to the Great Britain training camp ahead of the World Championships this summer, proving he is one of the hottest prospects in British Ice Hockey.

However, Vipers player-coach Rob Wilson believes that for Lee to reach his full potential and become a first-choice Elite League netminder, the Sunderland-born shot-stopper needs a full season of competitive games.

"This is a great opportunity for Mark to rack up more games under his belt and develop his game, something he is not able to do by sitting on the bench" said Wilson.

"We are all excited about Mark's potential and this is a great opportunity for all three parties.

"Mark will be allowed to develop his game, Romford get an excellent netminder and we can let one of our most promising players develop in good surroundings."

Following his decision to allow Lee to make the switch to Essex, Wilson confirmed that Richard Lawson will now become the Vipers new back-up netminder.

"Again this deal allows us the work with one of our other promising prospects." confirmed Wilson.

"Richard had an excellent season last year at ENL level and this will allow us to bring him on and prepare him for Elite Level.

"Richard is highly rated and I have no questions over his ability to play in the Elite League if needed."