Ice Hockey: Longstaff return brings final glory

The Great Britain international David Longstaff made a surprise return last night to help Newcastle Vipers retain the Findus Cup with a 6-1 thrashing of Guildford Flames at the Telewest Arena.

Newcastle's playmaker, Marc West, had failed to return from Canada in time for the game. He went home before Christmas for personal reasons but was expected back this weekend.

His absence prompted the player-coach, Rob Wilson, to give Longstaff his first start of the season. He broke both ankles before the season began when he dropped weights in the gym.

Longstaff calmly slotted past Stevie Lyle in the 10th minute after being put clear by a pinpoint pass from Wilson. Then Lyle could only parry Matt Beveridge's shot into the path of Stuart Potts for the second goal.

Flames cut the deficit within 42 seconds of the second period, Marian Smerciak's shot seeming to take a deflection past Tommi Satosaari, who was later named man of the match.

Vipers struck twice inside 97 seconds with the recent signing Scott Campbell and then Paul Ferone in a fine solo effort. Vipers' captain, Rob Trumbley, then scored within 48 seconds of the third period, and Stephen Wallace completed the rout with eight minutes left.