We won't dwell on negatives - Danny Stewart
Nov 4 2010 by Matthew Leslie, The Journal
NEWCASTLE Vipers might be down on their luck right now but coach Danny Stewart says his squad are determined to bounce back.
The Hillheads side suffered a double reversal last weekend losing a tight battle to leaders Belfast Giants 6-4 before being hit for six again 24 hours later as Nottingham Panthers cruised to a 6-2 win.
A glance at the Elite League doesn’t make pretty reading for Vipers fans as they lie second from bottom with newcomers Dundee Stars propping up the table.
The Vipers entertain Cardiff Devils before travelling to Sheffield Steelers and as far as Stewart is concerned, his men can’t wait to put things right.
He said: “We’re focusing on the positives from the season right now and there have been many. At times we’ve played well but it’s those other times that have proved crucial.
“But if you keep dwelling on the negative side it becomes a virus and that’s the last thing you want to happen. On the surface our position in the league could be disheartening, but I’ve a group of guys determined to put that right.
“It does feel like your luck is out when you’re at the bottom but it is up to us to turn that around.”
Vipers’ Latvian ace Toms Hartmanis backed his statement of intent.
He added: “The confidence is still there. We are playing well but not getting the bounces. Last weekend we played really well against Belfast but lost a couple of unlucky goals, with the puck bouncing off our guys’ sticks or skates and falling for the Giants.
“Sunday was tough without John [Schwarz] and with guys covering on defence. We were two goals behind but scored late in the first and matched Nottingham for long periods. The game got away from us a little in the end.”
Vipers are assessing the fitness of defenceman John Schwarz who injured his lower calf. However, he will face a fitness test tomorrow to see if he is available for this weekend.
New Canadian forward Mike Prpich might have to wait a week to make his Vipers debut as his visa application is still being processed.
However, Polish ace Jaroslaw Rzeszutko could return having recovered from a broken wrist.
