Phoenix lose advantage

ICE HOCKEY:

Manchester Phoenix saw their game in hand advantage eroded as they lost 2-1 at Peterborough Phantoms.

The defeat at last season’s Grand Slam champions saw them remain in third place - one point ahead of Basingstoke and Guildford - but lose the mental advantage over their likely play-off opponents.

Both netminders were in inspired form last night as they turned away wave after wave of attack to keep the scoreline tense until the final seconds.

Robert Lachowicz put Phoenix ahead, but goals from James Ferrara and a late Maris Ziedins effort gave the home side victory.

Manchester will look to pick themselves up when they travel to Sheffield tomorrow (7.30pm) before hosting Romford on Sunday (5.30pm).