Andrew Lord, hailed a ‘Modern Day Devils Legend’ after winning back-to-back League titles, has sent a heartfelt message to club fans.
Cardiff Devils coach Lord has achieved astonishing success since taking charge of the team four years ago, winning six trophies with this season’s play-off championship still to go for.
Andrew Hotham’s last gasp winner at Belfast Giants, which clinched a 3-2 victory with 20 seconds left, sparked massive celebrations among supporters.
Lord praised the ‘incredible’ support of fans, while IceTime TV commentator John Donovan, who has been watching Devils since the club was formed in 1986, tweeted: “Lawless (as coach) – 2 top division league titles. 2 Play-off wins. 1 B&H Cup. Qualification to European Cup 2nd round (First British Team).
“Lord – 2 league titles, 2 Challenge Cups, 3 Conference titles. CHL victory over Davos.
“@AndrewLord17 – a modern day Devils legend.”
Supporters aim to continue the party this evening (Sunday) when Sheffield Steelers play Devils in a League match at Ice Arena Wales (6pm).
Lord’s men have already won the title and the Erhardt Conference, both for a second successive season, and he says in a tweet: “Thank you all for your incredible support and messages. To see the excitement after our win in Belfast has been truly amazing.
“The feeling of winning a title that is played over 56 games and eight months is hard to put into words as there is so much from so many people that goes into making this happen.
“The experience we had last year to break the curse and bring home our first title in 20 years was already such a special moment. To now be able to repeat with this group of guys is the best feeling I’ve ever had in the game of hockey.
“They have given everything from day one to make this possible and I’m incredibly proud and feel extremely fortunate to be a part of what we have achieved.
“The number of critics and the level of expectation this season is something I’ve never seen before in any times as coach here in Cardiff. For the guys to do what they did and in such convincing fashion speaks to their character, commitment and their passion for this organisation and fan base.
“To be leading the way for so long in the new conference system with everybody gunning for us after last season in a league that has never been so good is full proof of how special this group of players is.
“I’m looking forward to seeing you all on Sunday and celebrating this incredible time in our organisation’s history.
Go devils.”
Remaining Devils fixtures in the regular season (play-offs start later this month):
Sunday 18 v Sheffield Steelers H (6pm)
Wednesday 21 v Manchester Storm H (7.30pm)
Saturday 24 v Belfast Giants H (7pm)
Sunday 25 v MK Lightning H (6pm)
CLICK HERE to book match online or call 0800 0842 666 to book via the phone.