Thundersticks Defeated by Vikings in AHL

The WA Thundersticks tasted defeat for the second time in their 2009 AHL campaign yesterday after being outclassed 3-0 by the Victorian Vikings in Hobart.

The Thundersticks are in Tasmania for finals week of the men’s competition, needing to finish in the top four to qualify for the weekend semi-final series.

Despite missing the services of former Kookaburra captain, Bevan George – who has missed much of campaign through injury – the Thundersticks were expected to be a real match for the improving Vikings outfit.

In a slow first half that was lacking spark – considering what was at stake – it was the Vikings that took the lead with the only real chance of any note. Chris Ciriello capitalized on a penalty corner opportunity to stroke the Victorians ahead on 28 minutes.

The Thundersticks failed to find any rhythm in the second period and were left thunderstruck when Pollard gave the Vikings a two goal lead, before Ciriello made sure of the double points with his second and the Vikings third to complete a comprehensive victory that sends them second behind Queensland in the standings.

Western Australia has moved to fourth in the table and will be looking for a win over third placed NSW Waratahs today in round ten of the AHL competition. Finding goals will be difficult for the Thundersticks against a NSW outfit that has the equal best defensive record in the league for 2009.