Steeldogs keep their bite
Andre Payette is tied down to a two-year deal in Sheffield, home of 2011/12's surprise package, but now has to meet expectations. Lots of people sniggered over a year ago when Payette was handed the reigns at Sheffield but few will be laughing now. The Canadian has got a lot right during his short-time in coaching, undoubtably helped by the leagues leading netminder and a sensational forward. But that detracts from a solid team with nothing spectacular about it (echos of MK from a few seasons back), apart from a great team ethic and a solid belief in what they are trying to achieve - all instilled on the team by Payette. But now, his two biggest challenges await. Firstly, the play-offs. Last year they went in without any expectations. A two legged affair against league champions Manchester, with the Sharp/Payette sideshow attraction, was always going to be a challenge. This year - a third place finish makes them favourites against Basingstoke, but with an increased expectation. They were never going to win the league and always had to battle from behind in the cup final. Now there's added pressure on a young side - can they rise up to it? Secondly - it could be a long summer, if they lose Ben Bowns and Janis Ozolins. Two players who could be challenging to replace, especially Bowns who is the key to the Steeldogs success at the back. It will be a test of Payettes coaching and scouting ability - first if he can keep the pair and, secondly, if he can replace the pair with equal quality. 'Made in Sheffield' was their tag line last summer, maybe Andre might be screaming for guys to 'Stay in Sheffield' this time around