Mixed fortunes for Vipers coach

Jan 26 2008 by Stuart Rayner, The Journal

NEWCASTLE Vipers’ fresh start has been put on hold for a week after a mixed day for the club yesterday.

His team having enjoyed a free weekend last week, coach Rob Wilson was hopeful of handing two new signings their debuts in the games at Basingstoke Bison and Coventry Blaze but his plans have been scuppered.

Defenceman Burt Henderson’s work permit did not come through in time for the back-to-back Elite League away games, while Cory Morgan appears to be stalling after initially agreeing to a third spell with the club.

Wilson will at least have Jeff Hutchins back from a groin injury today and was relieved the Henderson saga has finally ended.

“Burt Henderson’s work permit has come through, which is a huge relief,” he revealed. “He will be flying in on the weekend and training Monday and Tuesday.

“I don’t think I’m going to play at the weekend. The lads are looking good in practice and I think I can be of more use to them from the bench for these games. Besides, I think Coventry are scared of me!” The Vipers played Coventry in an exhibition game on Wednesday and although his side lost, Wilson felt it was a useful exercise.

“It was good for guys like Jeff Hutchins to have some ice time,” he said. “He’s been back skating for a while but needed to do it in a proper match situation.

“He’s looked pretty good in practice with (Todd) Jackson and (Colin) Shields and although I haven’t decided on the combinations for the Coventry game yet, it’s good to have more options.”

Wilson is optimistic of a strong finish to the campaign. “We want to take a run at this last part of the season,” he said. “I’m pretty certain Coventry are going to win the title but we want to finish in the top four and then take a run at these play-offs.

“These last six weeks or so of the regular season are very important. It’s not just about where you finish, which is all about pride, but it’s about what form you take into the play-offs.”

Billingham Bombers are in action in the English National League (North) tomorrow, when they entertain Kingston Jets. Whitley Bay Warriors and the Vipers’ ENL side both have free weekends.