Having to play semifinals could give Stampede momentum needed to win finals

• Published date: 30 September 2022
• Publication title: Sports Tab

The Stampede was rampant last season before being robbed of a chance to play for the New Zealand Ice Hockey League title when COVID re-emerged and the finals were canned

It will have to do it the hard way but will at least get a chance to win on the ice when the finals series starts against the West Auckland Admirals in Auckland tonight.

Frear, in his fourth year as Stampede coach, is eager to see his side at its best during the best-of-three series.

‘‘All we’ve been focused on this year is trying to develop our team and just try to play meaningful hockey,’’ he said.

‘‘To play all of last season and not have playoffs was gutting for the team, because we were really clicking.

‘‘We’re excited to be in the finals this year. That’s what you play for. All the regular season is about is getting to the finals and trying to lift that cup.’’

The Admirals made a late run during the regular season to seal top spot from the Stampede and home advantage for the finals.

That meant the Stampede having to get past the Canterbury Red Devils in the semifinals, but Frear was not bothered by that.

‘‘For us, having to play the semifinals probably wasn’t a bad thing.

‘‘We struggled for a bit of momentum a little towards the end of the season, and getting those two extra games allowed us to have some more time on the ice.

‘‘Now we’ve got the exciting prospect of going up to Auckland and playing potentially the best team in the league.’’

The Stampede has been a solid defensive team this...