Despite outshooting Bristol 60-36, Thunder were met with an outstanding performance from Morgan Parsons in the Pitbulls’ net. A goal from Hayden Hagger in the second seemed to be the needed breakthrough as Thunder kept the pressure on. However, an equaliser from Hughes against the run of play took the game to overtime as Bristol withstood a late onslaught, and then failed to capitalise on a power play opportunity in the dying minutes – with both teams hitting the post.

Overtime could not separate the sides, so a shootout it was and after regulation shots finished 3-3, the fun truly began. Those looking for a quick exit were left disappointed as both netminders took it upon themselves to prevent the action from ending. The tension continued for 14 rounds until Rob Oxley finally found a way past Parsons with a neat backhand finish into the roof of the net to secure the extra point for Thunder.

The MK side record a 5 point weekend, and close the gap on Cardiff, Invicta and Haringey to set up an enthralling race for third place heading into the final few weeks of the regular season.

MOM: 24 Charlie Conroy