Milton Keynes Storm opened their cup campaign with a convincing victory over a Chelmsford side unbeaten this season in the league. Both teams were short of full strength, but as a pointer to their much anticipated league encounters, this victory clearly gives MK the edge.

MK started the match well, and their pressing style put plenty of pressure on the Chelmsford defence, but despite dominating the opening period, and creating endless half chances, they just could not break the deadlock. At the other end, MK defended solidly, but quick skating Chelmsford forwards created some chances, and Jake Scriven had to be at his best on occasion to deny them. A freak deflection left Scriven no chance (16:59) for the Chelmsford opener, but confidence remained high on the MK bench despite this early setback.

MK redoubled their efforts after the break, and the Chelmsford defence creaked under the pressure. A great passing move between Josh Nicklin and Jacob Heron set up Connor Goode (21:48) to score through a crowded net, and from that moment MK never looked back. Every attack they looked likely to score, hitting the post three times in one shift alone! Another fast passing move between Heron, Goode and Nicklin was finished explosively by Mitch Starkey (28:12) on the blue line. Adding accuracy to his already blistering shot has been a huge addition to MK’s firepower this season. If a life in the forces beckons, perhaps the artillery should be alerted! When Goode passed to Nicklin (31:32) his drive and low shot finished any real chance Chelmsford had, and although Andy Major was evicted for a fracas late in the period, it slowed their progress only briefly.
MK continued their domination in the final period, when a good passing move from Goode and Josh Hampton was scrambled home by Nicklin (48:53) in front. Moments later they forged further ahead, when Nicklin (50:59) battled through the heart of the home defence to finish impressively. In the final minutes of the match, Nicklin drove unchecked toward the Chelmsford nets, and a quick lateral pass found Heron (55:07), who finished imperiously in front of goal.

A successful league and cup campaign is clearly within MK’s grasp. If they retain their energy and confidence, they could just sweep the board…

MoM Josh Nicklin
Josh Nicklin 3+1; Connor Goode 1+3; Jacob Heron 1+0; Mitch Starkey1+0.
MK Shots: 36 Chelmsford 38 (MK N/M Scriven 38/1 97.37%)
Penalties: MK 36 Chelmsford 38