Ice Hockey: Storm coach leaves home dispute alone

THE MANCHESTER STORM coach, Kurt Kleinendorst, has avoided an end-of-season confrontation with Superleague administrators on the eve of this weekend's play-off finals.

Manchester, the reining champions, have been denied use of their home dressing-room for the first semi-final, against Cardiff Devils at the Manchester Arena, after losing a coin toss. Just two weeks ago, Sheffield Steelers were the "away" side for the Challenge Cup final against Nottingham Panthers at the Sheffield Arena, yet were allowed to remain in their own changing area.

"The league has made it as inconvenient as possible for us," Kleinendorst said. "But what is the point in arguing with them."

In the second semi-final the Panthers will start as favourites to beat the surprise team of play-offs, Bracknell Bees.