How To Win The Elite League
The formula for lifting EIHL silverware
Fifty-four games, ten teams and only one champion. The EIHL is one of the most unique and exciting hockey leagues in all of Europe. But what is the winning formula that leads to hoisting the trophy at the end of the season? Let’s take a look at five factors that will decide who finished in first place.
Home Advantage
Being strong at home is a non-negotiable. In 2018/19 seasons, the Giants went unbeaten at home in all of 2019. This form saw them claw back a double-digit number of points to win the league on the final day of the season. Of course winning is key, but especially at home. Teams will aim to use their ice size, crowd and lack of travel for marginal games that can make a difference.
The Busy Holiday Season
From the beginning of December into early January, there tends to be a heavy workload of games. As if playing two games back-to-back over a weekend isn’t already tough, the addition of games during the week and for some a Challenge Cup knockout game somewhere in the chaos too. These games are not only important due to their quantity but also the context of who plays who. There are always a number of rivalry games with the teams that make up the top places in the standings. The teams who win these games will most likely be in the mix come the last few weeks of the season.
Squad Depth
Recent years has seen most teams in the league play with four lines. League rule changes have made it easier four two-way players to move between parent and secondary clubs. And therefore, whichever team can keep their bench the fullest has an advantage. Combine this with the busy schedule, it can be a case of who steps up in key moments. That third liner who blocks every shot or scores when the others can't. From mid-season re-signings to players on double contracts, extra bodies leads to success. There has also been a change in goaltending strategy, where teams will play two homegrown keepers. This allows for an extra import skater on offense or defence.
Regulation Wins
In 2019, The Cardiff Devils and Belfast Giants were tied on points after every league game had been played. This meant that the first tiebreaker was required to determine the champion. Unlike other sports where the biggest goal difference is used, the EIHL's preference is the team who have won the most amount of games in the regulation 60 minutes. And so, the title was headed across the Irish Sea to Belfast. Of course winning is important, but an added pressure is on teams to do it after three periods rather than in overtime or a shoot-out.
Know The League
Head coaches must know the league. Everything from how different referees view the game, what to expect of each team and understanding all the previously mentioned factors. In fact, the last time a head coach won the league in their first season with their team was in 2005/06 season when Ed Courtney won it with Belfast. Yet he had five years playing experience between Sheffield and Ayr. It is extremely rare that a coach with no previous EIHL experience wins the league in their first season. It takes time. Hence why many teams employ ex players, or promote assistant coaches.
To finalise, there are five factors that will decide who wins this year’s EIHl title. Any team that can manage these well will be in the mix to win the league. Who do you think will lift the trophy? Did we miss anything?
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The Fans' View
A multi-sport content creator bringing an honest and passionate view on topics. Written by fans for the love of the game.
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