Petr Cechmade sure to pay tribute to former clubsArsenalandChelseaduring a dream ice hockey debut for Guildford Phoenix this weekend.
The Phoenix – reserve side of the British National League outfit Guilford Flames – announced Cech’s arrival last week and the 37 – year-old received messages of support from the footballing world as he embarked on his new journey.
Cech looked at home on the ice as Phoenix’s clash with Swindon Wildcats went to overtime on Sunday evening, with the sides tied at 2-2 after 60 minutes.
Incredibly, the veteran Czech was Phoenix’s hero in a nail-biting penalty shootout, sealing the win for the home team with a crucial save at the death.
After being mobbed by his new team-mates in jubilant scenes at the Guildford Spectrum, Cech was named man of the match for his outstanding performance.
You simply couldn’t write this stuff…
A dream ice hockey debut for Petr Cech ***
He produced the crucial save in a nail-biting penalty shootout to secure the win for Guildford Phoenixpic.twitter.com/3OEHNfKjk7
– Metro Sport (@Metro_Sport)October 13, 2019
Still got it@ chelseayouth@ ChelseaFC@ PetrCechpic.twitter.com/34 NDRh0iJ4
– bloooo (@bloooo 26) (October) , 2019
Chelsea and Arsenal fans will love the customized helmet which Cech had made for his debut on the ice.
Last week, Chelsea ensured supporters that Cech’s new ice hockey career would not affect his role as technical and performance advisor at Stamford Bridge.
[Cech] will play as goalie for Guildford Phoenix, which is located close to where he lives, ’Chelsea explained on their website.
‘When his Chelsea Football Club schedule allows, he is ready to help them in their league games.’
On his move into ice hockey, Cech said: ‘I am delighted to have the opportunity to play with the Phoenix to get the match experience.
‘I hope I can help this young team to achieve their goals for the season and try to win as many games as possible when I have the chance to play.
‘After 20 years of professional football this is going to be a wonderful experience for me to play the game I loved to watch and play as a kid. ”
Phoenix head coach Andy Hemmings added: ‘The signing of Petr is massive for the Phoenix.
‘He is a great guy who trains hard and I cannot wait to see him make his debut.’
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