Belfast Giants top Elite league,but will they play without Thorton

Powderhornhockey

The Belfast Giants are firmly atop the Elite League,playing no nonsense hockey. In a tough gritty league in smaller intimate houses. These small arenas allow for a closer view of the action that we in North America can only look at and envy. However, it also allows for many fans having a great view of the game and an active and intelligent discussion of on ice incidents. Last weekend in the winning game the against the Viper's, Giant's player/coach Steve Thorton was given a 2+2 penalty for high sticking Newcstle's Andre Payette. Late last week while those of us in the States were worried about our 401Ks Giants boards were alive with discussion over the league imposing a 9 game suspension to Thorton for an upgraded Match Penalty for Slashing.

Oh dear, oh my, the good news is that the Giant's management have quickly mounted an appeal. This will allow Thorton to "ice" or play and coach until the appeal is granted or denied. So it will be status quo until the league powers at be stroke their long gray beards and issue their opinion. Steve Thorton himself gave his answer today, leading the Giants to victory against the Edinburgh Capitals 4:3, keep up that message Stevie, but watch that stick.