The disappointment is still there, but it is also joined with pride at the way the organisation has stuck together throughout the highs and lows this season.

I know that Nick, Vito and I were all proud of how the team played throughout the play off campaign. In reality we just came up a little short in crunch games. The important thing is that we learn lessons and I know that Nick already has ideas of how he wishes to progress and plan for next year.

The disappointment in the dressing room after the game on Sunday was plain to see, with tears being shed. I think the term "Gutted" was the most used word.

On Saturday we played a disciplined game against a strong counter attacking Bracknell side that are dangerous when they attack on the break in numbers. We felt that we handled their threat well and dominated large spells of the game.

During the second half of the season we have struggled to score goals in the big games and this was the case on Saturday. It was a rollercoaster with us taking the lead twice and then finding ourselves 3-2 down, until Muzzy scored to level the game at 3-3.

That's the way it remained throughout the remaining regulation and overtime period. We managed to kill a huge powerplay for Bracknell during overtime before the game was settled on penalty shots with Bracknell taking the spoils. This meant that we had a must win game on the Sunday.

On Sunday the guys gave their all and again dominated long spells of the game, but we just came up a little short. I think our luck lately was summed up in the last 10 seconds where Gary Clarke had a long range shot that the Bracknell goalie couldn't deal with and the puck rather than hit the back of the net bobbled onto the top of the netting!

It was a real heart stopping moment, but that's when I knew it wasn't to be.

We wish the remaining four teams in the play offs luck.

A special mention should be made to Pete Nolan, the MK equipment manager/medic for the past 17 years and who has decided that it's time to call it a day to spend more time with his young family.

Pete is the nicest guy you could ever meet and he would do anything for you, and has put so much time and effort into MK ice hockey.

He has been the only constant throughout my ice hockey career in Milton Keynes. I know that a lot of players owe Pete hours of time, which he has sat with them in A and E! I know he will be sorely missed by everyone at Lightning.

Good luck also to Clarkey who is heading out to Austria with the GB team. You deserve your moment. All involved with the team wish you luck.

I thank the MK faithful for all the support this year and wish you all a cracking summer.