BRACKNELL Bees player-coach Scott Spearing missed his side’s two games last week after being injured in a fall while working away from ice hockey, writes Dave Wright.

It is understood he went home after going to hospital for treatment, but later felt unwell and returned to hospital at the weekend.

Bees director Stuart Robinson confirmed on Sunday: “The good thing is he is being well looked after. He had an unfortunate accident at work and we look forward to seeing him back very soon, but at the moment we don’t know how long he will be out of action for.”

Fellow director Carol Miller paid tribute to him, saying: “We couldn’t ask for any more from Scott as a coach. He is an all-round good coach. He has a lot of skills, not just hockey, but in man-management and his worth ethic make him a very rounded coach. He has recruited an excellent team for us.”

Spearing’s new squad have enjoyed a good season so far, and their 4-2 win over London Raiders on Sunday left them second in the NIHL South One with 16 points from nine games, two points behind unbeaten leaders Peterborough Phantoms.

Robinson commented: “The season so far is going fantastically, we are really pleased. Our crowds are up, we have gained new sponsors and we’ve a competitive team on the ice.

“If we continue to perform like we currently are, we have a good chance of winning some silverware.”

Mrs Miller added: “Our players are really enjoying playing in this league and in front of bigger crowds. It is a good experience for them and they are learning all the time.”