Saturday 24th took the team away to Swindon, with a hard-fought game against the Wildcats that went on until the final buzzer. Jordan Hedley came home with the MOTM honours, showcasing his signature determination and drive to block shots and prevent goals. He made several crucial saves, proving once again that he is a tough netminder to come up against when playing against the Lightning.

On Sunday at home, the title again fell to Jordan, who was on top form with breathtaking saves and blink-and-you-miss-it snatches of the puck. His refusal to let the puck pass meant Lightning won the game, with a 97.14 save percentage for the entire match. His talent dominated the weekend, making the double-title a well deserved honour.

Saturday was a tight game that could have gone either way. It came down to winning battles and playing with desperation and physicality. We created good looks, including a couple of open-net opportunities, and if we convert on those and come out on top in the physical side of the game, we’re likely talking about a different result. In games like that, it’s the small details that end up making the difference.

Sunday was a great night all around, with some MK Legends in the building and outstanding support from our fans. We generated a lot of chances throughout the game and played with strong structure, especially in the third period. Getting bodies back into the lineup has been something we’ve really needed, and hopefully that trend continues moving forward.

We have a huge weekend ahead against a solid Leeds team that has been playing well as of late. We will need everyone focused and at their best come Saturday night.

"Patrik Forsberg – Forward/Defence (#37)

Finnish utility player Patrik Forsberg has proven himself to be one of MK Lightning’s most versatile and valuable assets. Capable of playing both as a forward and on the blue line, Forsberg brings size, composure, and an intelligent all-round game. In 2024/25, he was a consistent producer for the Lightning, tallying 5 goals and 21 assists for 26 points in 26 games — impressive numbers that underline his ability to contribute offensively while still providing defensive reliability. With years of experience across Finland’s Mestis, Sweden’s HockeyEttan, and even spells in France and Belgium, Forsberg’s depth of knowledge and calm presence make him a leader on and off the ice. Number 37 gives MK tactical flexibility, the ability to stabilise any line he joins, and a wealth of experience to draw upon in key situations.

View from the Coach “Patrik gives us experience and versatility,” said Tim Wallace. “He can play forward or defence, and that flexibility is a huge asset. He’s got great vision, makes smart plays, and is a player who makes the team around him better.”

Quick Facts Age: 30 | Nationality: Finnish | Shoots: Right 2024/25 Stats (NIHL National, MK Lightning): 26 GP – 5 G – 21 A – 26 PTS Style: Multi-positional, intelligent two-way presence with physicality One to watch: A steady, flexible performer who can fill key roles"

Saturday’s meeting at Planet Ice brings a familiar National heavyweight to Milton Keynes, with Leeds Knights arriving in blue and yellow and no shortage of proven NIHL firepower. Kieran Brown remains the axis of their attack, capable of changing the tempo in a single shift and forcing match-ups to bend around him. His game blends puck protection with a direct streak that keeps defenders honest, and Leeds are comfortable running offence through his stick in all situations. The production underlines the point: when Brown is on the ice, chances follow, and discipline matters because he draws attention as well as penalties (2025–2026 • NIHL • Leeds Knights: GP 31, G–A–P 27–26–53, PIM 41).

Control defines Bálint Pákozdi’s influence more than headline moments. He plays the middle of the ice with purpose, moving pucks quickly and leaning into traffic when required, which makes him a useful counterweight in tight games. Pákozdi’s willingness to absorb contact shows in the penalty minutes, but it also buys space for linemates and keeps Leeds’ forecheck humming. He doesn’t need to dominate possession to hurt you; small advantages accumulate over a night, and he’s adept at nudging them Leeds’ way (2025–2026 • NIHL • Leeds Knights: GP 35, G–A–P 13–26–39, PIM 94).

Photo credit: Tony Johnson

Patience is the hallmark of Bowdyn Neely’s work from the back end. He reads pressure well, takes the simple option when it’s on, and is happy to let the game come to him rather than force it. That calm shows in his low penalty minutes and steady contribution to Leeds’ transition game, where first passes matter as much as shots. Neely’s numbers won’t shout, but his decisions shorten shifts and keep structure intact—often the difference late in periods (2025–2026 • NIHL • Leeds Knights: GP 34, G–A–P 3–18–21, PIM 2).

Skate with the players is back!

Stick around after the game on 7th February (MKL vs Sheffield Steeldogs) for the chance to step out onto the ice with the team!

You’ll be able to get pictures with the team, get some autographs from your favourite players, and share the ice with them. It’s always a fun evening, so make sure you don’t head off too early.

Skate hire charges apply, just go to the front desk at reception to enquire more.

Wing Kingz are once again generously offering a deal to Lightning fans on Saturday!

Simply show your season ticket, or your ticket for the 31st game, and get 20% off your entire bill! Not only that, but if you visit wearing your MK Lightning jersey, you can grab a free Kingz lager

Thank you once again to Wing Kingz for making sure our Lightning fans don’t go hungry