Watkins Optimistic About Tigers’ Play-off Run In

Autocraft Telford Tigers manager Tom Watkins remains optimistic about his team’s play-off chances despite collecting just two points from the last four. Sunday’s win over Milton Keynes was not without adversity, with Tigers having to come from behind to see off the ever-irresistible Lightning. 

In the aftermath of the action, Watkins was positive about Telford’s run-in as the end of the season approaches. 

"I thought it was a typical play-off game played with lots of commitment and lots of physicality from both teams, not a lot of scoring chances either way.” 

“For us now, it’s key that we remain optimistic about the opportunity next weekend offers for us. We’re clustered with three other strong teams that are in very similar situations, vying for the final spot. We can control our fate with a strong performance next weekend.”

Tigers led early through Patrick Brown in a heartstopping first period that saw both teams tied after Janne Jokkinen equalised and Harry Gulliver turned the game on it’s head. 

A David Thomson brace gave Tigers back the lead before Eric Henderson converted to give the hosts breathing space. 

Hull Seahawks are the next opponent for the Tigers with a home and away double header scheduled for April 11th and 12th. Hull Seahawks are tied with the Telford Tigers in results during the playoffs this season so far, with one win, two losses and one win in overtime. 

Ideally, for the Telford Tigers, they need to win both times against the Seahawks, both times and Milton Keynes Lightning need to lose so the Tigers can make it into the semi-finals at Coventry Skydome next weekend.

The Telford Tigers have a habit of losing away, so the fans and the team alike are hoping to change that around this coming Saturday.