Nielson's side could not break down a tough Steelers rearguard

Nottingham Panthers coach Corey Neilson said his team will come again after their Elite League play-off defeat.

Panthers lost 2-0 to Sheffield Steelers in the Elite League play-off final at the National Ice Centre, having placed joint second in the regular season.

But Neilson is convinced everything is ready to challenge next season.

"We're happy with what's transpired this year - we've created a buzz and excitement about hockey here," Neilson told BBC Radio Nottingham.

"I want to keep that style - that core. I will do my best to keep a bunch of the players who I think contributed.

"This is the best job in British ice hockey. We have a loyal following, a huge rink and a great management team.

"We have strength in numbers, there is good unity, the club is strong financially and we put a product on the ice that is fun to watch.

"I'm immensely proud of the boys, I know they are down but they matured as people, as team-mates and as hockey players."

Neilson also paid tribute to forward Dan Tessier who retired after the game.

"He's the real deal," Neilson said. "And I was thankful he decided to join us. He's going out on a high."

Tessier added: "It's a tough feeling. Every guy in the team deserved to win and it's hard to swallow.

"I'm disappointed for the guys on the team. We worked so hard but we couldn't get it done on the powerplay.

"We had all the chances in the world but couldn't take one."

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version