It was an action-packed double header against the Swindon Wildcats last weekend, as Lightning closed out their final games before Christmas in style.

Saturday night on the road in Swindon belonged to Jordan Hedley, who delivered a superb performance between the pipes. Facing a relentless 40 shots, Hedley turned away the vast majority with a 90% save percentage, earning a deserved Man of the Match award and keeping Lightning competitive throughout a high-tempo contest.

Hedley carried that form straight into Sunday night, producing another outstanding display back at the Thunderdome. This time he went one better, recording a shutout against a skilled and dangerous Wildcats lineup to help Lightning secure an important 3–0 victory. Calm, composed and assured, Hedley’s weekend was a timely reminder of his importance to the side.

Sunday also marked a surprise return of fan favourite Liam Stewart, with a guest appearance for one night, and it could hardly have gone better. The atmosphere lifted the moment Stewart stepped onto the ice, with the Thunderdome erupting in appreciation. The forward did not disappoint, scoring Lightning’s crucial second goal before adding an assist on the third. Each touch drew roars from the crowd, and when Stewart found the net, the celebrations said it all. It was a memorable night, a statement performance, and the perfect way for Lightning to head into the festive break.

Saturday, we played hard and physical with a strong start. Penalties hurt us, but the effort was there and we deserved a better result.

Sunday came down to structure, urgency, and attention to detail. It was great to have Stewy back, and he played a big role in earning the two points. Now the goal is to bring that same focus and desperation every night and build some momentum.

Jordan Spadafore – Defence (#5)

Canadian defenceman Jordan Spadafore made an immediate impact in his first season with MK Lightning. In 2024/25, he posted an impressive 35 points from the blue line, with 5 goals and 30 assists in 48 games, establishing himself as one of the league’s most dynamic offensive defencemen. At 6’2, he combines size with skating ability, moving the puck quickly and confidently while also being tough to play against in his own zone. Spadafore’s vision and passing ability make him a key figure on the powerplay, while his physical edge ensures opponents know when he’s on the ice. Number 5 will be central to MK’s transition game and defensive stability this season.

View from the Coach “Jordan brings us stability and skill on the back end. He’s got great size, he moves the puck really well, and he can contribute offensively. He’s exactly the type of defenceman you want leading your blue line,” said Tim Wallace.

Quick Facts Age: 25 | Nationality: Canadian | Shoots: Left 2024/25 Stats (NIHL National, MK Lightning): 48 GP – 5 G – 30 A – 35 PTS Style: Offensive defenceman with size, vision, and a physical edge One to watch: A cornerstone on the blue line who drives the play both ways

The Milton Keynes Lightning face a familiar foe this Saturday as the Peterborough Phantoms visit Planet Ice. Expect a high-tempo clash with plenty of skill on display, with both sides looking to capitalise on festive form.

Luke Ferrara brings experience and creativity to the Phantoms attack, combining vision with an eye for goal. Ferrara’s 2025–2026 NIHL season shows his playmaking prowess, having already registered 33 assists and 15 goals in 25 games (2025-2026 • NIHL • Peterborough Phantoms: GP 25, G–A–P 15–33–48, PIM 37). His ability to link up with teammates and read the play makes him a constant threat around the net, capable of turning tight situations into scoring chances. With a career nearing 1,000 points, he remains a figure the Lightning must respect at both ends of the ice.

Photo credit: Willow Florence Photography

Janne Laakkonen offers a seasoned presence up front, blending experience from multiple European leagues with consistent output in the NIHL. This season he has accumulated 34 points in 23 games (2025-2026 • NIHL • Peterborough Phantoms: GP 23, G–A–P 9–34–43, PIM 4), combining goals and assists in a way that keeps defenders guessing. His vision in the offensive zone and willingness to engage physically make him effective in both transition play and set-piece situations. Laakkonen’s understanding of the game is an asset that could swing tight contests in the Phantoms’ favour.

Photo credit: Willow Florence Photography

Bradley Bowering anchors the Phantoms’ defence with physicality and steady puck control. In 2025–2026 so far he has contributed 13 points over 20 games (2025-2026 • NIHL • Peterborough Phantoms: GP 20, G–A–P 4–9–13, PIM 51), often initiating plays from the back and disrupting the opposition’s attacks. His size and positioning make him a difficult opponent along the boards and in front of his own net. Bowering’s defensive awareness and willingness to absorb pressure will be central to the Phantoms’ strategy against the Lightning.

Photo credit: Willow Florence Photography