The home game on Saturday against Leeds Knights was a fast-paced, loud and intense display of Lightning's teamwork. Jordan Cownie was a standout performer and a worthy Man of the Match against a determined Leeds Knights side, delivering a display that perfectly summed up his value to the Lightning. His effortless goal-scoring ability was on full show, finding the net with the kind of calm assurance that makes the difficult look routine, while his off-the-puck work and smart positioning constantly caused problems for the Leeds defence. Just as impressive was his teamwork, linking play smoothly and creating space for his line mates, always putting the team first. When the game got physical and the pressure ramped up, Cownie’s determination shone through, battling hard on every shift and setting the tone with his work rate. A complete performance built on skill, selflessness and grit, exactly what you want from a Man of the Match.

Sunday's away game against the Knights saw the title given to Mac Howlett. Mac Howlett continued to show just how well he has integrated into the Lightning lineup with an impressive all-round performance in Sunday’s away game. Growing in confidence with every shift, Howlett looked completely at home within the team structure, combining seamlessly with his teammates and making smart, composed decisions in possession. His impact was underlined by two well-taken goals, both finished with confidence and composure at key moments, rewarding his hard work and intelligent positioning. Beyond the scoresheet, his work rate and commitment were clear to see, contributing at both ends of the ice and helping drive the Lightning forward. A standout display that highlighted his quality and growing influence within the squad, a thoroughly deserved Man of the Match performance.

We played some of our best hockey of the year for most of the weekend.

Saturday was the standard of how we want to play every night. Getting a few key players back added to our depth and reinforced our identity. We played with an edge, took away their time and space, and capitalized on our chances. We controlled the game from start to finish, and our crowd gave us that extra push.

On Sunday, the compete and battle level was there all night. We didn’t execute on special teams, and a few unlucky bounces ended up on their sticks and cost us. Five-on-five, we carried the play and created chances to put the game away. We deserved better, which makes it a tough one to swallow.

Now it’s about digging in, resetting, and being ready to go against a Sheffield team that’s had a strong year. We’ll need everyone at their best.

William Kerlin – Goaltender (#35)

Bedford-born goaltender William Kerlin is already a proven and reliable presence for the Lightning. At 24 years old, the English netminder combines size (6’1”, 194 lbs), athleticism, and calmness in the crease, giving MK confidence whenever he starts. Kerlin came through the Guildford Flames youth system before heading to Canada with the Ontario Hockey Academy, where he sharpened his game against top junior competition. He has also iced in the Elite League with Nottingham Panthers and Sheffield Steelers, before firmly establishing himself at NIHL National level. Last season he featured in 17 games for MK, posting an impressive .909 save percentage and 2.44 GAA, showing he can deliver at the highest standard in the league. With his reflexes, composure, and big-game mentality, Kerlin gives the Lightning true depth and quality in the goaltending position.

View from the Coach “Will has been working hard and continues to progress. He gives us real depth in the goaltending position and is someone we know we can rely on when called upon,” said Tim Wallace.

Quick Facts Age: 24 | Nationality: English | Height/Weight: 186 cm / 88 kg | Catches: Left 2024/25 Stats (NIHL National, MK Lightning): 17 GP – .909 SV% – 2.44 GAA Style: Athletic goalie with quick reflexes and calm under pressure One to watch: A proven, reliable netminder who brings quality to every game

Milton Keynes welcome the Sheffield Steeldogs to Planet Ice for a NIHL National clash that usually delivers pace and edge in equal measure. The visitors arrive with proven threats throughout the lineup, and the orange and white will need to be sharp from puck drop. Bair Gendunov is the obvious place to start: a forward who blends craft with consistency and makes things happen in traffic. Comfortable carrying the puck through the neutral zone or finding space in the slot, he forces defences to make quick decisions and punishes hesitation. His influence this season has been built on production and control rather than noise, setting the tempo for Sheffield’s attack (2025–2026 • NIHL • Sheffield Steeldogs: GP 37, G–A–P 29–38–67, PIM 18).

Sommer brings a different problem entirely, operating with a scorer’s instinct that keeps him around the play at all times. He doesn’t need many touches to make an impact and is adept at arriving late or finding seams when coverage drifts. What stands out is the balance between finishing and distribution, making him just as dangerous when drawing defenders as when releasing the puck himself. Discipline is rarely an issue, allowing Sheffield to keep momentum when he’s on the ice (2025–2026 • NIHL • Sheffield Steeldogs: GP 37, G–A–P 28–33–61, PIM 4).

Garcia offers the Steeldogs a steadying presence and a link between defence and attack. His game is built on reading pressure well, moving the puck efficiently and supporting play in all three zones. While not defined by goals, his ability to advance possession and contribute assists gives Sheffield structure and control, particularly against aggressive forechecks. He’s also prepared to do the hard yards when games tighten, adding bite without losing composure (2025–2026 • NIHL • Sheffield Steeldogs: GP 37, G–A–P 7–33–40, PIM 26).

We have lots of events coming up this month!

Lightning v Steeldogs | 07/02/26 – Skate With The Players

Lightning v Raiders | 14/02/26 – Valentines Day Game

Lightning v Tigers | 21/02/26 – Pride GameLightning vs Phantoms 28/02/2026 – tickets on sale 07/02/26 at 10am

Tickets are selling fast for these games, so make sure not to miss out!

🎟️ bit.ly/WatchMKL

No after match signing this week as it’s our last Skate With The Players!