Friday, 18 January 2013

Devils looking for divine intervention in goal

The Cardiff Devils are frantically searching for a new netminder after first choice Phil Osaer ended his second spell at the club prematurely to move to Norway.

Backup Joe Myers will now get a chance to start for the club tomorrow against the Edinburgh Capitals after the Scottish club confirmed they would be travelling to south Wales for the fixture after reassurances from their travel operator.

Manager Gerad Adams and bench coach Neil Francis are now scouring the UK and abroad for a suitable replacement for Osaer.

It is the second time the 32-year-old has left south Wales for Norway, having quit in 2008 to sign for Sparta Warriors, after returning in this year’s off season.

He said: “When I came back to Cardiff, my desire was to be here for several years and to help build a side that would win championships. It’s truly disappointing and I am devastated to be leaving, however myself and my family are excited about a fresh start.”

Early rumours circulated about a return to the club for Cardiff-born Stevie Lyle, but these were quickly quashed by local media sources and the Devils have now also confirmed this on their website.

Adams said that although Osaer will be missed, he understands his reasons for leaving.

“This is a huge loss for us” he said. “Phil is not only a great goalie but also a model professional and has a positive attitude. He will be very tough to replace, indeed at this late stage of the season.

“Phil was made an offer he couldn’t refuse so to speak, and it could open further opportunities for him in the future. Though this is very hard for us we wish Phil the best of luck.

“We are looking at all possibilities and working very hard to find a new goalie.”

Fans shouldn’t be too concerned about Myers having to step in, after the local lad starred in a penalty shootout win against the Sheffield Steelers last month, saving three of the four shots he faced.

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