BRADFORD Bulldogs are preparing for a crucial visit to Altrincham Aces on Sunday, aiming to significantly boost their chances of making the NIHL North Two Cup semi-finals.
Two weeks ago, the Bulldogs faced the Aces in Cheshire, ending a three-game winning streak with a 6-3 loss.
However, they bounced back with a dramatic 5-4 overtime victory against Kingston Sharks last Saturday and are keen to extend the gap between themselves and the Aces in the Group B standings.
Coach Mike Forbes recognises the challenge posed by the Aces, but remains confident in his team's ability.
Forbes said: "Sunday’s cup game back in Altrincham will be just as much of a challenge as it was in against Kingston.
"The Aces are fast, break quick and move the puck well in the offensive zone.
"We know what to expect but we are determined to put things right after our performance there two weeks ago.
"We have the ability within this team to compete with the best and this is an opportunity to go back there and prove it."
The Bulldogs had a strong start at Hull Ice Arena, leading 4-0 with under seven minutes left.
Josh Stockton put them ahead early, with Kieron Furlong, Connor Medley, and Chris Waites extending the lead.
However, a late surge from the Sharks saw them claw back to a 4-4 draw, forcing overtime.
The Bulldogs faced further pressure with a penalty kill, but captain Paul Lane secured a win at 62.28, reacting quickly to a rebound.
Forbes added: "We played the best hockey we have so far this season for 55 minutes.
"The five-minute lapse at the end just shows that you cannot afford to switch off against any team.
"It wasn’t always pretty and there are certainly things we need to continue to work on in training to help us find a way to play to deliver that level of performance for the full 60 minutes."
The Bulldogs remain focused on maintaining their form against the Aces to secure their semi-final spot.
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