It was a whirlwind weekend for MK Lightning

The departure of head coach Tim Wallace did little to disrupt MK Lightning’s progress as they picked up a four-point weekend.

Wallace spent two years in charge of the city’s ice hockey team, leading them to last year’s Playoff Championship. This season, Wallace took Lightning to sixth in NIHL National Division, qualifying for the playoffs in Coventry.

Speaking about his exit, Wallace said: “I want to sincerely thank the club for giving me the opportunity to serve as head coach of Milton Keynes Lightning. It has meant a great deal to me and my family to be part of this organisation. I am incredibly proud of the players and staff I had the privilege to work alongside.

“Milton Keynes will always hold a special place in our hearts, and I am deeply grateful to the supporters and wider community for the belief and energy they brought to the team.

“We shared some unforgettable moments together, and I will always value those memories. I wish nothing but the best for everyone involved with the Lightning.”

Lightning director Tom Roberts added: “Tim has made an exceptional contribution to Milton Keynes ice hockey. This was an incredibly difficult decision because his depth of knowledge, professionalism and the pleasure of working with him are qualities I valued every single day.

“On behalf of everyone at the club, I wish Tim and his family every success and happiness in the future, and I thank him sincerely for everything he has done for Milton Keynes Lightning.”

His departure came on the eve of Lightning’s trip to face Bristol Pitbulls on Saturday, but under the watch of interim head coach Lewis Christie, they ran out 8-5 winners. The following night, back on home ice, they saw off Pitbulls for a second time, beating them 4-2.

Christie said: “I want the boys to be happy and ti play with a bid of edge. Going into the playoffs with confidence it key. If we keep going the way we’re going it will be positive so fingers crossed.

“I’m taking things day-by-day at the moment. I’ve learned from Tim, and I’m learning from the boys too. Being an assistant, to being a player, back to assistant and now head coach, it’s been a strange old season but it’s enjoyable!

“We want to keep winning, and we strive to be the best team in the league.”