'Vipers can make the play-offs', says Carroll
Nov 19 2010 The Journal
NEWCASTLE Vipers wing king Jamie Carroll insists that the Tynesiders have what it takes to spring a surprise and make the Elite League play-offs this season.
The American is adamant that the Vipers possess the quality to achieve a spot in the play-offs in April and believes the win against Edinburgh Capitals last weekend reminded the team that hard work is the key to success.
He also highlighted the remarkable achievements of the Montreal Canadiens last season and reckons that the Vipers could pull off the same feat, claiming that the only thing that matters is how you end the season.
“The weird thing about the losing streak was that we knew we were better than that but it was frustrating trying to get out of that run,” said Carroll. “This past weekend we played pretty well and reminded ourselves that if we work hard as a team, then the results will come.
“We’ve had a bit of a slow start to the season but it’s how you end it that counts. You see it in every league and sport of a team that doesn’t get off the blocks but are up there at the end.
“Last season’s NHL, for example, had Montreal Canadiens sneak into the play-offs after a stuttering start and they were a round away from the Stanley Cup final. Point is, it doesn’t matter who the best team was in November or December if they’re not up there come April.
“All we have to do is focus on making our the play-offs and then you’re into cup-tie hockey, which is completely different from the league, because one slip-up and that’s your season over. Any team could pull that off if they have a healthy squad.”
Jamie admits that it has been difficult with a lot of new faces coming in and the horrible luck they’ve had with injuries, but the win at Edinburgh along with ending the torrid run of defeats was sweet relief for the whole dressing room. He said: “It’s been a tough start. We’ve had to gel a lot of new faces together who have had to get used to being in a new situation.
