VIDEO: Tigers repel a fightback to advance
Telford Tigers breathed a late sigh of relief as a third period fightback saw them beat likely play-off finalists Guildford Flames 4-3.
Tigers take on Sheffield Steeldogs in next weekend's quarter-finals high on confidence, following a dramatic evening at Telford Ice Rink.
A 3-3 scoreline at the end of 60 minutes last night resulted in overtime, with Max Birbraer snatching the vital goal.
That win followed an early end to Saturday's encounter in Surrey, when a large crack in the ice stopped play after just 31 minutes.
Tigers head coach Tom Watkins said: "It's good to pick up two points and finish a clean sweep of wins over Guildford this season.
"That is a big accomplishment against a team like them. I was disappointed with how we started the game, and how we went 2-0 down. But we put our work hats on and got it going.
"We have to got to come to play against Sheffield next week. They are a very tough side and have got that play-off mentality."
Telford trailed 2-0 after just three minutes last night with Guildford scoring through Matt Towe and David Longstaff.
A string of fine saves from Thomas Murdy prevented further damage, as Telford struggled to break through a determined Flames rearguard.
It was brighter start to the second session, however, thanks to a strike from defenceman Martin Ondrej.
But the visitors regained their two-goal advantage just moments later when Towe scored his second.
An excellent goal from Ricky Skene got Telford back in it and Nathan Salem equalised at the start of the third session before Birbraer's late strike.
On Saturday night, meanwhile, the Tigers led Guildford 2-1 through goals from Nathan Salem and Max Birbraer.
But a large crack in the ice behind Guildford's goalmouth forced a premature end. With more than half the match played, the result stands.
