Blaze Beat Newcastle

Last updated : 15 March 2008 By Covsupport
Elite League Champiions for 2007/08 Coventry Blaze won 6-5 at Newcastle Vipers tonight, thanks to a Curtis Huppe hat-trick.



The Vipers took an early two goals lead. David Longstaff netted after only 31 seconds with Rob Wilson adding a second after 5.27. Paul Thompson's side then scored twice in the sixteenth minute of the opening period. Curtis Huppe was first to score for the Blaze, quickly followed by a strike from top scorer Adam Calder.

On the second powerplay of the night, Huppe scored after 18.37 to put the Blaze 3-2 up,only for Newcastle to equalise.

Jon Weaver scored to delight the travelling Blaze support but two goals from Jackson and Campbell had the Geordies back in front.

Huppe then completed his hat-trick before the end of the second period.

Eight minutes into the third period and Blaze earned a 6-5 win when Tom Watkins scored.

Elsewhere, second place Sheffield Steelers beat Belfast 3-1 and Nottingham beat Hull 4-2.

Blaze,who are with the injured Neal Martin are at home tomorrow night to Basingstoke Bisons. Face Off time at the Sky Dome is at 6pm.