Jordan Spadafore was the standout performer on Thursday night as Milton Keynes Lightning battled hard against the Basingstoke Bison, delivering a moment of pure class when it mattered most. The offensive-minded defenceman was, as always, everywhere on the ice — breaking up plays in his own zone, driving the puck forward with confidence, and providing relentless support to his teammates in transition. With the game hanging in the balance late on, Spadafore stepped up in spectacular fashion, taking the winning goal with composure and conviction to secure a huge victory for the Lightning. A tireless presence from first puck drop to final whistle, his all-action performance and decisive finish made him a deserved Man of the Match.

It was a stellar night between the pipes for Jordan Hedley on Saturday, who earns Man of the Match honours following a commanding performance for Milton Keynes Lightning against the Telford Tigers on Saturday. Posting an outstanding 94.29% save percentage, the in-form netminder was a fierce and unyielding presence throughout, turning away wave after wave of Tigers pressure with composure and confidence. Time and again, Jordan Hedley produced crucial stops at key moments, frustrating the opposition and giving his teammates the platform to push forward. Sharp, focused and utterly dependable, his top-drawer display proved vital on the night and rightly earns him this week’s Man of the Match recognition.

It was a night to remember on the road as Mac Howlett delivered a sensational hat trick performance to claim Man of the Match honours away at the Telford Tigers. The dynamic forward once again showcased his standout skillset, combining sharp movement, intelligent positioning and clinical finishing to devastating effect. Reading the play superbly and linking seamlessly with his linemates, Howlett demonstrated exactly why he is such a key figure for Milton Keynes Lightning. Each of his three goals highlighted his great eye for a shooting opportunity and relentless determination in front of net, sealing a superb individual display that drove the Lightning forward and left the travelling support in full voice. A complete, high-impact performance and a fully deserved Man of the Match.

So proud of the boys this weekend, a real team effort from everyone. They dug deep, worked hard and it paid off with 6 points against some tough opposition. There were so many players I could highlight who had incredible games. Mac Howlett securing a hat trick is definitely up there as one of the weekend’s big highlights. It was fantastic to see Conroy on the ice. He put in a great performance and his confidence is growing with every game. A big mention as well for Will , who did a great job on Sunday in what was a tough game and made some amazing saves when it mattered. The support from the fans was incredible and the energy in the rink really lifted the team. The players definitely felt it. The boys are fired up after the weekend and we go again next week. Hopefully more points on the board as we push closer to securing a playoff spot!

"Edward Knaggs – Defence (#25)

Experienced defenceman Edward Knaggs is a steadying presence on the Lightning blue line. At 27, the English blueliner has become a cornerstone of MK’s defence, known for his calmness, positioning, and ability to move the puck effectively. In 2024/25, he suited up for 54 games, adding 5 goals and 18 assists for 23 points, while logging big minutes against tough opposition. Knaggs rarely gets flustered under pressure, and his composure helps settle the team in difficult moments. Unfortunately Ed has been ruled out for the rest of the season and has undergone surgery - we hope to see him back on the ice soon.

Quick Facts Age: 27 | Nationality: English | Shoots: Left 2024/25 Stats (NIHL National, MK Lightning): 54 GP – 5 G – 18 A – 23 PTS Style: Steady, composed defenceman who logs heavy minutes One to watch: A defensive leader who brings calm and consistency"

Luke Ferrara remains the headline threat. His recent NIHL production with Peterborough underlines how direct he is around the net and how quickly he turns small defensive errors into goals. Last season in the NIHL he delivered (2024–2025 • NIHL • Peterborough Phantoms: GP 50, G–A–P 44–50–94, PIM 19), and he has followed it with another surge this term. Ferrara’s game is built on timing and release rather than volume; he finds soft ice inside the dots and finishes in stride. If Lightning’s defence give him a second look from the slot, he rarely needs a third.

Janne Laakkonen is the conductor. The veteran’s CV runs deep, but it’s his current output that demands attention: 12 goals and 78 assists in 43 NIHL appearances this season (2025–2026 • NIHL • Peterborough Phantoms: GP 43, G–A–P 12–78–90, PIM 22). Those 78 assists speak to vision and patience on the power play, drawing coverage before sliding pucks into space. Last season in NIHL he supplied 13–75–88 in 42 games, reinforcing that this is sustained influence rather than a hot streak. If the Lightning allow him time between the circles, he will find a seam.

Stepping up from the blue line, Bradley Bowering has been a stabilising force for Peterborough this season, blending defensive responsibility with offensive support that’s both timely and effective. In the 2025–2026 NIHL National Division he’s posted (2025–2026 • Planet Ice NIHL National Division • Peterborough Phantoms: GP 32, G–A–P 4–17–21, PIM 63) while also chipping in in the NIHL Cup. Bowering’s first pass out of his own end often sets up attack sequences, and he reads developing plays well under pressure. His willingness to engage along the boards and support Lightning’s rush lanes could tilt possession battles in tight moments.

There are only 4 HOME GAMES left this season before the playoffs!

Each game is selling out fast, so make sure to get your tickets in now – Playoff tickets and dates will be announced when details are released, you don’t want to miss out

Milton Keynes Lightning and the Milton Keynes Lightning Supporters Club (MKLSC) will host a special charity fixture on Saturday 14 March 2026, raising vital funds and awareness for the Alzheimer’s Society, a cause close to the hearts of many across the Milton Keynes community.

On the night, the Lightning will take to the ice wearing a special charity jersey, designed with a difference to help shine a spotlight on the vital work Alzheimer’s Society does to support people living with dementia and their families. Dementia remains the UK’s greatest long-term health challenge, affecting hundreds of thousands of people and their loved ones, and Alzheimer’s Society continues to lead the way in providing support, funding research, and campaigning for better care and understanding.

In recognition of the importance of this cause, both Milton Keynes Lightning and the MKLSC will be making a donation to Alzheimer’s Society via their JustGiving page, which is now live.

Representatives from Alzheimer’s Society will also be in attendance on the night, with Forget-me-not pins available to purchase at £2 each. These pins help raise both awareness and vital funds to support research and services for people affected by dementia.

LAST ORDER FOR JERSEYS 28TH FEBRUARY 26 TO ARRIVE IN TIME FOR THE GAME.