Melbourne Ice doesn’t disappoint

By Robert Bremner

Melbourne Ice has continued its early season form by defeating the Mustangs 5-3 in front of a sold-out crowd.

The local derby once again did not disappoint fans, with the match being very physical throughout.

Ice were up and about early scoring the first two goals of the match. They dominated the shots on goal during the first two periods and took a 4-2 lead into the final break. The

Mustangs had much of the play in the final third having 16 shots on goal compared to seven for Ice. For all of their hard work the Mustangs still only managed to score one goal in the final third and were unable to make any inroads in the Ice's lead.

The win takes Melbourne Ice to its fifth victory from the last six matches against the Mustangs.

Both teams travelled to Sydney the following week, with the Ice continuing their winning ways – accounting for the Ice Dogs 6-3. They backed it up with a hard-fought 4-2 win over Sydney Bears only sealing the win with 34 seconds remaining and returned home with a full six points from their victories.

Meanwhile, the Mustangs held off the Bears in a tight, low-scoring 2-1 victory in Sydney. They followed it up with a disappointing 7-2 loss to Sydney ice Dogs who completely outclassed them after the first period. Both teams went into the second period tied at 1-1, before Sydney put on a master class – scoring six of the last seven goals.

While Melbourne Ice had a well-deserved bye the following week, the Mustangs hosted the second-placed Adelaide at the Icehouse. The first match was tight early with the Mustangs leading 2-1 at the first break. A scoreless third saw both teams with a chance at victory heading into the final period. It was the Mustangs that stood up with four goals to one running out 6-2 winners.

Adelaide exacted their revenge the following day with a come from behind 3-2 shootout victory. The Mustangs lead by a goal midway through the last period before Adelaide found an equaliser, leading to a shootout. Through Dean Peterson, Adelaide managed to score the only goal in the shootout and win the match.

Melbourne Ice remains outright on top of the ladder, now moving a full four points clear of the second placed Adrenaline. While the Mustangs currently sit in fourth position with four wins.

Next up, Ice travel to Canberra to take on the Brave and aiming for their 8th consecutive win. While Mustangs play host to the bottom placed Thunder.