After 30 games played Miskolc is sitting in first place with a one point lead over second place DAB.Docler and two points over third place Nové Zámky. This past week Miskolc took care of both teams when they faced them, a 4-1 win over Dunaújváros and 5-2 over NZ, one of the biggest reasons for picking up six points was the outstanding performance of by Tyler Metcalfe who had three goals and two assists in the two games, because of this he is this weeks Player of the Week.
Miskolc is sitting in first place, what are the differences between this years team compared to last years both on and off the ice?
First off, we have many new faces this season that have all fit in well, our goalies have been playing great, we're well coached, we've got solid defense and skilled forwards. Last year we lacked consistency which was a big problem and this year we've done a better job of not getting too low or high regardless of wins or losses.
What will be the key to Miskolc to finish the regular season at the top of the standings?
Although we've had a good start, with the standings being so close, we can't afford to coast, we need to continue to improve and compete every game in a difficult and busy month of january.
How much has the MOL League changed since your first season back in Dunaújváros?
The biggest difference between when I first came to the MOL League and now is there aren't any terrible teams anymore. Back then you could play the bottom teams and win whether you played good or bad. Now if you don't play well the bottom teams can beat you. Having teams closer together in the standings makes for a more exciting season.
If you were to try to persuade a North American to sign with Miskolc what points would you bring up?
I have had this conversation with a bunch of friends and North American players in recent years, playing hockey in Europe is very different than in Canada and the USA which in my opinion is a great thing. Getting to experience other countries cultures and travelling can be life changing. The team here in Miskolc keeps getting better year after year. The facilities are improving (new outdoor roof rink, skating treadmill, team gym to mention a few), fans are great and the product on the ice is very close to winning a championship in my opinion. Miskolc is a wonderful city and has so many cool surrounding areas not widely known to the common tourist. I would not have come back to Miskolc a second season had I not enjoyed life in these parts so much.
Photo: László Mudra