The home fixture on 10th January against the Seahawks saw Sean Norris deservedly take the Man of the Match honours. With an impressive return of two goals and three assists, Norris was a constant threat throughout the game, using his speed and power to drive play and push Lightning over the line in a well-earned victory

Jordan Spadafore took the title on the 11th January in the away game against the Seahawks, proving once again he is a powerhouse on the ice, supporting his teammates and assisting on 3 goals to keep the pressure on Hull throughout. With his dynamic and offensive style, he is unique in his ability to lead the blue line into a hard-to-beat play.

Last weekend took the team to Solway for a double-header against the Sharks, with energetic plays, close calls and an electric atmosphere. Saturday 17th January's game title was taken by Mac Howlett in his debut night. With a fast, powerful goal in the opening period, he stepped out in MKL colours in style, going on to gain further assists and powerful plays. Quick passes, excellent judgment of play and already a fantastic team player, he earned the title.

Jordan Cownie claimed the Man of the Match honours on Sunday against the Sharks, delivering a commanding performance from the forward line. Powerful and quick across the ice, Cownie consistently applied pressure on the opposition, combining pace and strength with smart play alongside his teammates. Contributing both goals and assists, his all-round impact and experience were key throughout the match, making it a thoroughly deserved MOTM recognition.

Our team was faced with adversity and resilience was demanded from the guys. We showcased our skill at times and also showed how important it is to stay mentally engaged.

On Saturday 10th, at home, Dom’s line delivered an outstanding performance, driving our offense and helping secure the win. Although we faced a mental lapse in the second period, we came back strong in the third, maintaining our structure and ultimately earning the two points.

On Sunday 11th, despite a challenging start with a bad bounce for their first goal we followed that up by way too many defensive breakdowns, our team fought back valiantly in the third period. We came close to tying the game, hitting the crossbar and creating several breakaway opportunities. Although we didn’t get the result we wanted, the effort and determination in the third period was commendable.

Looking ahead, it’s all business and we are going to need everyone.

17/18 January.

This past Saturday 17th, our team displayed tremendous effort, as we faced challenges and adversity in many different ways. A few crucial mistakes ended up in the back of our net. Despite this, the effort and desperation was evident from most of our players. It was a tough pill to swallow as it could of gone either way.

On Sunday 18th, we found a way to win, showcasing the resilience and determination of the team. A number of our young players stepped up without hesitation, and many players logged significant minutes. We are incredibly proud of their dedication and the fight they showed throughout both games.

We have to be at our best in all facets of the game this weekend.

Sean Norris is one of the NIHL’s most clinical forwards, combining explosive speed with a lethal scoring touch. The 25-year-old has not only excelled in the NIHL but also gained valuable Elite League experience with Belfast Giants and Guildford Flames, as well as representing Great Britain at World Championship and Olympic Qualifier level. In 2024/25, despite being limited to just 31 games, Norris produced at over a point-per-game pace with 21 goals and 20 assists for 41 points — underlining his ability to change the course of a game whenever he is on the ice. A natural finisher, he finds pockets of space and punishes defences with his quick release, while his pace makes him a constant threat on the rush. With international pedigree and top-flight experience to his name, number 86 is not only one of MK’s most dangerous offensive weapons but also a proven competitor on the biggest stages.

View from the Coach “Sean is a pure scorer. He has that ability to find chances and finish them, and his speed makes him hard to contain. He’s a player who makes a difference every time he’s in the line-up,” said Tim Wallace.

Quick Facts Age: 25 | Nationality: English | Shoots: Left 2024/25 Stats (NIHL National, MK Lightning): 31 GP – 21 G – 20 A – 41 PTS Style: Fast, clinical finisher with high offensive instincts One to watch: A natural scorer with GB international pedigree capable of taking over games"

The Basingstoke forward, Luke Spadafora has settled quickly into the National game, blending playmaking with a willingness to drive the middle and take contact. His recent production shows a player comfortable dictating shifts rather than waiting for them to come, and his discipline to keep plays alive along the boards can stretch defensive structures. Spadafora’s value lies in variety, he can finish, he can find a late trailer, and he’ll compete for space when the game tightens (2025–2026 • NIHL • Basingstoke Bison: GP 32, G–A–P 15–21–36, PIM 47).

Photo Credit: Dan Murphy

Another threat arrives via Brendan Sellan, whose route through major junior and university hockey has shaped a reliable, intelligent winger. Sellan reads pressure well, arriving on time in scoring areas without overplaying his hand, and his off-puck work creates lanes for linemates. This season’s return underlines a forward who can contribute on both sides of the puck, staying engaged shift to shift rather than chasing highlights. When Basingstoke need momentum, Sellan’s ability to turn a simple retrieval into a controlled attack becomes telling, particularly against teams that like to counter quickly (2025–2026 • NIHL • Basingstoke Bison: GP 33, G–A–P 17–16–33, PIM 21).

Relf’s influence comes from experience and composure. A long-standing presence in British hockey, he brings calm puck movement from the back end and an understanding of when to simplify. His current campaign shows a defenceman contributing steadily while managing risk, supporting the rush without abandoning structure. Relf’s first pass can bypass a forecheck, and his positioning reduces second chances around the crease. Against a Lightning side that thrives on tempo, his decision-making will be central to Basingstoke’s ability to slow the game and control territory (2025–2026 • NIHL • Basingstoke Bison: GP 31, G–A–P 8–10–18, PIM 18).

Our next home game on the 31st January against the Leeds Knights is selling fast and almost sold out

Grab your tickets now and make sure you’re there!

Also one to keep in your diary, 7th February brings the return of Skate With The Players! 

Come onto the ice with the team after the match, take pictures, get the signatures of your favourite players, and enjoy skating with the team!

Skate hire charge applies, see the front desk at Planet Ice for details.