I was reluctant to go with Devils early on however after the Swarm games, I would have to peg them as favorites over Stampede.  I’ll take Admirals over Swarm.  Their offense seems more potent.

Finished 7-1  to Swarm over Admirals – dont know where the Admirals were tonight – very different team from Sat & Sun… 

Why were swarm and admirals playing today?

Man bet the TAB are  glad they are not offering odds on this competition.
Pretty much everyone is capable of beating everyone, and it appears anyone is capable of smashing anyone.

I’m going to put my top hockey analysis on the line and make an early call. Thunder vs Stampede in Queenstown to determine which of them two plays Swarm in the final (in Auckland).

I had my favorites however I now think its whoever turns up on the day.  We have said that in the past however it’s true this year.  The Devils last year had some unspectacular games however we still won them all convincingly (except against STP where we had to play well to win).  I think talent alone won a few games last year.  This year the teams are more evenly matched so when a team goes to sleep, they will lose.  The Devils are still the most talent laden team I think however the Admirals proved a smart disciplined game can beat talent.

I’m thinking whoever emerges as the best coached and most disciplined team will win it.