Telford Tigers bounced back from a disappointing show at Sheffield to come within minutes of a shock win over EPL leaders Manchester Phoenix.

After being ahead for 53 minutes, playing some of the most exciting hockey this season, Tigers were left shell-shocked by a barrage of third period goals.

So from leading 4-0 and 7-4 at the Ice Rink last night, the Shropshire side ended up losing 8-7.

However the stunning show was partially overshadowed by the news that forward Marek Hornak has called time on his hockey to concentrate on his full-time job with Wolverhampton University and his part-time HNC studies.

Player-coach Tom Watkins – who sat out this fixture as the last of his five games suspended – is now looking for a replacement for his top scorer, but was heartened by the passion and determination the whole team showed in what turned out to be Hornak’s last game.

“This was like night and day compared to Sheffield on Sunday,” said Watkins.

“I asked the players to show me some spirit and character and they did that in spades. We came out and worked hard, and played with real heart and desire.”

Tigers opened the scoring through Scott McKenzie, who jumped on a defensive error by Manchester at 11:58.

Luke Brittle skated around a distracted Andrew Sharp to make it two for Telford and Josh Bruce sent the home side into the break 3-0 up by not giving up on the rebounds, leaving Tony Hand and his Phoenix side looked seriously rattled by this unfamiliar challenge.

Defenceman Mike Jones picked up his first point for Tigers, assisting on Tim Burrows’ goal early after the re-start, and battling Telford saw off two separate five-on-three powerplays.

However, Manchester were able to get on the scoresheet with two goals in the middle session.

A clean shot from the left saw Hornak give Tigers a 5-2 lead in the opening minute of the third, but Manchester struck back with a powerplay goal and then reduced the deficit to just one.

McKenzie and Hornak added two more to make it 7-4 for Telford by 48:31.

But then Phoenix showed why they are top of the table, switching goalies, tightening up their defence and hauling themselves back into the game by equalising at 53:48 and going ahead for the first time at 55:02 with the match winner.

By Caroline Garbett