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Seniors Win Berlin Halloween Cup 2010

Swindon Senior Flames Halloween Cup Team - Shaun Ryan (Coach), Jamie Baker, Matt Baxter, Shaun Davies, Craig Davies, Miles Bailey, Tom Pool, Simon Ryan, Lee Ryan & Dan Oldland

The Senior Flames became the first ever Swindon team to win a European Tournament, after 14 years of trying. The team travelled to Berlin to compete against 7 home teams from across Germany in the 2010 Berlin Halloween Cup. After two exciting days of competition, the Flames emerged as champions, defeating the Bavarian team ECH Turtles 9-1 in the final.

The Saturday saw the Flames complete the group stages undefeated, with wins against Paraliners (11-0), Berlin Bravehearts Tradionals (3-0) and finally Jena Jaguars (9-0). The Flames completed an impressive 1st days performance by winning their 1/4 final against the Siesta Penguins 9-0.

The Sunday saw the Flames start their semi final against the Bamburg Fuzzi Deadshots as favourites, however following a lively night of entertainment (thanks to our hosts), both teams struggled to get the upper hand with the game finishing 2-2. The Flames emerged from the nail biting penalty shoot out as victors.

The final saw the Flames play what has to be their best game of the entire season, as they romped to a 9-1 victory against a very impressive ECH Turtles team. The Turtles had come through all their games in impressive style, with their two leading forwards returning impressive goal tallies. However, the Flames game strategy of using the Shaun Davies , Lee Ryan , Tom Poole & Craig Davies line to nullify the Turtles threat, and to allow the Flames line of Jamie Baker, Matt Baxter, Miles Bailey and Simon Ryan to seal the victory worked a treat.

Flames player Craig Davies was selected as Player of the Tournament.

Following their victory, the team manager Nigel Davies said "I have been travelling to Europe with both Ice and Skater Hockey teams for over 10 years, and this is the 1st time that I have returned home with a winning team. Whenever you go abroad you are up against it due to the way referees interperate the rules of the game etc. However, I have to say that this Tournament was very well organised, with some very good teams. What impressed me most with this Flames team is the way they made friends with the players and supporters from the home teams. During the final, we were the best supported team, which I think speaks volumes for our players. Travelling the 750 mile home journey in the team mini bus was a lot sweeter with the winners trophy on the dashboard!"

Below are a selection of photo's from what was a truly great weekend - thanks Peer & Stefanie and the Berlin Bravehearts for a great weekend and see you all next year.