We caught up with Head Coach, Slava Koulikov, after his side dramatically secured their third appearance at the Final Four Weekend in the last four years.
It was a stern task for the Phantoms, who faced the Hull Seahawks, Telford Tigers and Leeds Knights in the group stage, knowing the top two would progress to the NIHL National’s showpiece event.
They didn’t get off to the start they wanted with defeat in Hull, but won the next three to put themselves right in the mix for a spot at the dance.
Koulikov commented: “It was a tough group, all four teams were well prepared & battling hard for qualification. But we know that on our day, with the right plan and compete level, we can compete with anyone in this league and thankfully we got over the line.
The final games of the group stage proved to be decisive, with Phantoms finishing on the right side of the dotted line thanks to an excellent 5-3 victory away at the Leeds Knights, whilst the Telford Tigers defeated Hull to help Phantoms on their way to Coventry.
“The boys knew what we need to do in every game. They raised their individual game, competed hard and we’re all really happy to finish in top two and make Final Four! Slava said.
It’s looking like a sell out crowd at the Coventry Skydome for the NIHL Final Four weekend, adding to the excitement in what is already two days full of drama, twists, turns and goals!
Slava is excited to be returning to the Skydome this term, a venue he’s enjoyed success at on more than one occasion in the past with the Phantoms.
“Playoffs are the most exciting part of the season. To be in Coventry three out of four seasons is a great achievement for the club and the players deserve a lot of credit for that. Now the time comes to defend our trophy on the big stage and we are all looking forward to the weekend ahead!” Slava said.
Phantoms will take on the Swindon Wildcats in game one of the Final Four Weekend, facing off at 1:30pm. They’ll be followed by the Knights and MKL, with the winners of the two games meeting in Sunday’s grand final!