NEWS: Finnerty content with team progress

NEXT HOME GAME: It’s another Friday clash as Braehead Clan host the Elite League champions, Sheffield Steelers at Braehead Arena THIS FRIDAY (7:30pm face-off). Tickets are available NOW via TICKETMASTER, by calling 0844 499 1700 or direct at the Braehead Arena box office.

Braehead Clan head coach Ryan Finnerty admits he was frustrated by Saturday’s loss to Sheffield Steelers – but insists he’s not concerned at the progress of his team.

 

Clan fought back from 4-1 down to get it to 4-3 before penalties put paid to any further comeback as Paul Thompson’s men claimed two Elite League points.

 

And Finnerty’s remains upbeat with his team facing a three-game weekend coming up.

 

He said: “It was disappointing on the night and looking back, it was ten minutes at the bottom of the period that cost us.

 

“We gave up a powerplay and there was one where the puck comes off the back board straight on to one of their sticks and there’s nothing you can do about that.

 

“But we battled back and played hard and dominated for 11 minutes, but spent eight more minutes penalty killing. It was frustrating and we faced the same situation in Manchester the other week.

 

“It would have been nice for the guys to decide the game, but to see it end that way is frustrating. Overall we had good spells and bad spells, but I’m not concerned with where we’re at.

 

“On another night and on another bounce, it could have gone the other way.”

 

Finnerty also praised the early season form of Matt Beca, who has weighed in with some important goals as he added his fifth of the campaign in Saturday’s defeat in Sheffield.

 

He added: “Matt’s a skilled player and we’ve put him in good spots and works well with Jeff Ulmer and Scott Pitt. We want them to be tighter defensively, but they’re providing goals for us.

 

“They’ve been on the scoreboard more times than not and Beca reminds of a Joey Talbot kind of player by the way he plays.

 

“You don’t notice him sometimes but when he’s on the puck he can make things happen and can be dangerous.”