Phoenix hot-shots back in the fold

ICE HOCKEY:

MANCHESTER Phoenix have continued their close season recruitment with the re-signing of James Archer and Stephen Wallace.

Both were an integral part of the club’s English Premier League Championship-winning team, scoring nearly 50 goals between them.

Archer in particular is considered a hidden gem of the league, and the club had to fight off the advances of others to secure his signature.

The 23-year-old joined Phoenix in the 2009-10 season after firstly agreeing a deal with the Elite League's Hull Stingrays.

But the club’s owners backed out at the last minute and Archer signed for Manchester — securing his second League title in the process.

Wallace (27) will return for his third season with the club.

“James had a good season with us last year and brought a lot of energy to the second line,” said Phoenix' player-coach Tony Hand.

“His build makes him difficult to get off the puck and I am looking for even more from him this season.

“Stephen scored a lot of goals for the team last season and played a major part in our team’s success, as did everybody else.

“He was certainly one I wanted back and I am delighted he will be with us for another season.”