A Long way still to go for David! Gouett backs fellow Viper to keep playing

Evening Chronicle (Newcastle, England), Nov 5, 2009

Byline: NEIL FARRINGTON

MARK GOUETT has hailed David Longstaff's expected return from injury for the Vipers this weekend - insisting his captain is "nowhere near finished" as a player. During three games sidelined by a niggling thigh problem, local hero Longstaff has been assisting Rob Wilson on coaching duty.

However, the 35-year-old is set to return for tomorrow night's trip to Sheffield and Sunday's visit of Nottingham Panthers - and Gouett admits he has been much missed.

The defenceman said: "Lobby has been working hard with Willy in the last two weeks, coaching players and giving tips, especially to the young guys, and he is considering coaching in the future.

"However, he still got far too much to offer to even think about retiring from playing.

"He is still a "go to" guy for us when he is fit, and we are very excited to have him back.

"He is obviously considering coaching at some point in the future - and he would be made for it - but hopefully not for a long time yet.

"As well as being a great pro and role model for the younger guys, Lobby makes a big contribution on and off the ice as captain, and the fans naturally identify with him.

"A guy like David Longstaff, with his background, is the heart and soul of this hockey club."

Not that the Vipers are a one-man team, though, as was proved by their 3-2 victory - without Longstaff - at league leaders Nottingham a week ago.

Gouett added: "That was a great result and a very good performance from us after a little difficult spell.

"Nottingham take a lot of pride in playing down there, and to take one on the chin in front of their own fans - and live on TV - must have hurt.

"So it goes without saying they will be massively pumped up tomorrow night, and we know they are still the team to beat."

Tickets for the Panthers' visit, priced pounds 13.50 for adults, pounds 10 for concessions and pounds 7 for under-16s, are available from the Vipers' office on (0191) 261 0909 or via www.vipershockey.co.uk.

CAPTION(S):

PRAISE: Gouett LONG-ING FOR A RETURN: Vipers veteran David Longstaff