ICE HOCKEYBracknell Hornets 2, Wightlink Raiders 4
RAIDERS continued their spell without player-coach Jeremy Cornish on the ice, with a solid victory over an improved Bracknell side.
With the chances of winning the English National League Division 1 title again all but gone, Raiders set about gaining as many points as possible in preparation for the play-offs.
They controlled the first period and opened the scoring through man of the match Joe Rand, before Alex Murray, while shorthanded, capitalised on an error by Bracknell goalkeeper Marashi to double their advantage.
Raiders lost defenceman Dominic Hopkins to a two plus ten penalty for a check to the head of Matt Ovenden, but retained their lead to the break.
In the second period, another Raider was in the book, when Steve Gosset was ejected for a high stick against Alan Lack.
Bracknell used the resulting five-minute powerplay well, former Raider Danny Hughes providing the goal.
However, Raiders hit back and again, while shorthanded, Murray scored again.
Bracknell were not to be outdone and with seconds left on the period netted their second, meaning there was all to play for in the final session.
But Raiders were always in control and with ten minutes left, they scored their fourth and final goal, a simple effort by Kieran Annis, to take the game.
This weekend, Raiders host Milton Keynes Thunder at Ryde Arena. Face-off for the game tomorrow (Saturday) is 6pm. On Sunday, they travel to Romford Raiders for a cup clash.
Reporter: sport@iwcpmail.co.uk