Northstars split the weekend and launch their new alternate jersey

Credit: Jamison O'Malley

The Escadia Newcastle Northstars played a double header at home over the weekend, defeating Sydney Bears 7-4 on Saturday night.

Alternate Captain Patrick Nadin reflected on the win: "It was a good game, we didn't know what to expect as they had a few new guys in the line-up. We had a bit of a slow start, but we responded pretty well, and we were able to put some goals on them."

Yevgeni Skachkov was the hero of Saturday night, securing 4 goals and 1 assist for a five-point game, with goals also scored by Liam Ryan (2) and Akihide Watanabe.

Week in and week out, the Northstars are playing in front of sell-out crowds. "The atmosphere is unbelievable. It's awesome, like having a sixth player out on the ice for us. It's great energy," said Nadin.

On Sunday, they hosted the Melbourne Ice, going down 2-5 to the defending Goodall Cup Champions. The Northstars launched their new alternate jerseys to be worn on Sundays, showcasing the 'NEWY' brand. You can view the story behind the design on our Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1DtpuumrHz/

The home team struggled against the defending champs on Sunday, with some key players arriving throughout the week. Northstars' Santeri Haarala would bring the home team within one during the second period, but it wouldn't be enough.

"We had a slow start, we were on the back foot and trying to play catch-up the whole game, and unfortunately, we ran into a hot goalie, and our chances didn't go our way," said Nadin.

Head Coach Kevin Noble singled out Melbourne's desperation as the difference, "We didn't answer the bell tonight; it was a missed opportunity from slow starters. They were more desperate than us, and that one stings. You can't afford to give up goals and spot them and then have to chase the game to get back in it. We've got to be better."

Brian Funes was strong on defence for the Northstars all night, putting his body on the line, blocking shots and physically getting in the way. "Funes battled hard, he competed hard, and I wish a few more of our guys did that tonight," Noble added.

Both Noble and Nadin were united in viewing the loss as a valuable lesson ahead of finals. "We didn't really handle adversity and their desperation well. It was the first real test of playoff-style hockey, and it's things that we need to learn now. It's a good learning lesson for us, and we needed that," said Noble. Nadin echoed that sentiment: "You can't just turn up to finals weekend without adversity all year, so it's better to be dealing with it now and learn as a group and go forward from there."

The Northstars return home to Hunter Ice Skating Stadium next Sunday, the 14th June. Games are sold out until mid-July, but fans can catch all the action on AIHL.TV.