Genting Casino Coventry Blaze captain Kim Tallberg believes the best is yet to come for his team after they secured an impressive four-point weekend with victories over the Cardiff Devils and Sheffield Steelers.
Blaze found themselves two goals down within the opening five minutes against Cardiff on Saturday but, powered by a Nick Setiz hat-trick, staged a thrilling comeback to claim a 3-5 victory.
On Sunday, Chase Gresock was the hero, scoring twice, including the overtime winner, to secure a 3-2 triumph over the Steelers, capping off a tremendous weekend of hockey.
Reflecting on the team’s performance via the Elite League website, Tallberg expressed his pride: “I’m super proud of the guys in our room. We were down by two yesterday and found a way to fight back. That gave us the confidence to return to home ice today, in front of our amazing crowd, and get another win.”
Now in his third season with the club, the popular Swede has helped Blaze accumulate 45 points from 38 regular season games, positioning them fifth in the league table – just four points behind second place.
“The entire season is a process,” Tallberg continued. “There are always ups and downs, and you have to find ways to bounce back. Right now, every game feels like a playoff game for us as we push for more points in the standings. We don’t look too far ahead, but this weekend was a fantastic way to start.”
Tallberg has contributed 19 points (six goals, 13 assists) in 37 games, averaging 16:54 of ice time under the guidance of coaches Kevin Moore and Zach Vinnell.
“We have an excellent coaching staff that provides us with plenty of video analysis after each game. We’re well-prepared and know exactly what to do,” said the 33-year-old forward.
“This year’s group is incredibly tight-knit, and I believe that will pay off in the long run. I truly think the best is still to come.”
Next, Blaze face a back-to-back showdown against the third-placed Nottingham Panthers, away on Saturday (7pm) before returning home to the Skydome Arena on Sunday (5:30pm). The Panthers, coached by former long-time Blaze boss Danny Stewart, currently sit three points ahead of Coventry in third place.
Nearly a year since the sad passing of Dayle ‘Keeno’ Keen, Sunday’s game against the Panthers will be dedicated to the to the memory of the Scotsman, giving fans, friends, and family opportunity to honour his life and legacy.
Tickets for the game are available through the following options:
- Call 02476 630693
- Visit the Skydome Arena Box Office
