At just 17, Bailey Thomas stole the spotlight in Saturday’s clash against the Romford Raiders. Scoring his very first goal and a stunning blue-line strike at that! He had the crowd on their feet, roaring in appreciation of his skill, dedication, and rapidly developing play. His energy and determination on the ice were unmatched, making him a thoroughly deserving recipient of the Man of the Match award. We couldn’t be prouder of Bailey and his incredible performance!

Sunday against the Solway Sharks saw the title given to Will Kerlin. Will was an absolute wall between the pipes on Sunday against the Sharks. With a series of incredible saves, he denied the opposition at every turn, securing a vital victory for Lightning. His composure, reflexes, and determination on the ice proved once again why he’s famously known as the “Kerlin Wall.” A truly deserved Man of the Match performance!

On Friday night, after a hard-fought couple of periods, we pulled together in the final period to secure the win on home ice. It was fantastic to see 17-year-old Bailey score his first goal for the Lightning.

On Saturday, following a long trip to Solway, we were caught out by a few soft goals early on. Despite being 5–2 down, we showed real determination to turn it around and claim a 7–5 victory, a great testament to never giving up.

Now we head into the business end of the season, where every game and every point counts on the road to Coventry.

"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.

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"

Emil Svec has been central to Hull’s scoring engine this season, blending experience with a keen eye for the net. In the 2025-2026 NIHL campaign, he has compiled 41 goals and 47 assists for 88 points (2025-2026 • NIHL • Hull Seahawks: GP 49, G–A–P 41–47–88, PIM 42). Svec thrives in tight spaces and can change the tempo with a single shift. His combination of vision and finishing ability makes him a constant threat on the powerplay and a player Lightning defenders will need to track every second.

Johnny Corneil offers Hull both creativity and finishing touch on the wing. Last season in the NIHL, he recorded 32 goals and 34 assists for 66 points (2024-2025 • NIHL • Hull Seahawks: GP 46, G–A–P 32–34–66, PIM 45). Corneil’s playmaking is complemented by a high hockey IQ, allowing him to exploit gaps and deliver timely passes. His skill in linking up with teammates ensures that Hull maintain pressure deep in the offensive zone, and he is capable of delivering decisive contributions when the game tightens.

Look to Brock Bartholomew to provide a mix of creativity and reliability from the back end. In the current 2025-2026 NIHL season, he has notched 6 goals and 18 assists for 24 points (2025-2026 • NIHL • Hull Seahawks: GP 18, G–A–P 6–18–24, PIM 8). Bartholomew combines strong positional play with quick decision-making, helping transition the puck out of defence while supporting the forwards. His ability to read the play and join attacks makes him an influential figure in Hull’s system, particularly on the powerplay and in maintaining sustained pressure.

photo: Adam Everitt