The club would like to announce that by mutual consent, Jacob Ranson has left the Romford Raiders.
The club would like to place on record, our sincere thanks for all of Jacob’s efforts over the many years he has pulled on the Romford jersey and we wish all the very best for the future.
Jacob Ranson has had 3 stints at the Romford Raiders over the last 11 years, totaling 324 competitive games.
Raiders booked their place in the National League Cup final with a memorable win at Milton Keynes.
Having snatched a 5-4 win on home ice in the first leg of their semi-final – thanks to Andrew Shewfelt’s goal nine seconds from time – they travelled for the return leg without suspended import Zach Yokoyama.
And the signs did not look good as the home side – who currently top the league table – quickly overturned the deficit to claim an aggregate lead.
Barely four minutes had been played when Ross Venus opened the scoring, with the same player putting Lightning 2-0 up and ahead on aggregate after 10 minutes.
Venus completed his hat-trick early in the middle session, to leave Raiders 7-5 down overall, but they hit back through Tjay Anderson’s powerplay goal in the 32nd minute.
And Shaun Miller struck before the second break to square the aggregate score once again, heading into the final period.
Anderson’s second goal of the night, just 54 seconds after the restart, restored parity and edged Adam Laishram’s men in front and Jake Sylvester sent the travelling fans wild when netting soon after.
Raiders were outshot 21-8 in the third session, but Ethan James held firm in their net and, when Jordan Hedley was removed for an extra skater, Ashley Jackson fired into the empty home net to complete a 5-3 win – 10-7 on aggregate – to secure a final spot.
Leeds and Sheffield meet in the other semi-final tie, with the two-legged final to take place on dates to be confirmed in the new year.
Anderson said: “It was a good game from everyone. We started off slow but it’s a hard rink to come and settle down in.
“We weathered the storm pretty well. Three down is hard in this rink but the boys brought it back.
“It’s always good to score in games like this, it’s good for the team, good for yourself, makes you feel good. I’ve got to respect my teammates for that, I wouldn’t have scored without them boys.”
Raiders club director Andy Pearson paid tribute to the efforts of the team, saying: “A year ago the team was bottom of the table, six months ago there was no team, and then three down after 30 minutes last night.
“It was never-say-die. Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.
“I’m so pleased for Laish. It must have been very hard for him to watch, and also only having two imports.
“This ranks up there with the wins over Durham (in 1992-93 season) and Peterborough (2022-23 play-offs) for me.
“Now we need a full rink at every game!”
Raiders return to league action with a trip to second-placed Leeds Knights on Saturday and host a quick return at Romford’s Sapphire Ice & Leisure Centre on Sunday (5.15pm).
Anderson added: “They’re a good team, as we know. We play the same way as we do here in Leeds and at home, we’ll beat any team.”
By Lee Power
Sports Editor – Romford Recorder
During December all Kids Tickets (5 to 15 years) for Raiders home games will be £2.
Come along and enjoy the thrills of live sport this December with the family.
Sunday 15th December – Raiders v Leeds Knights 5.15pm, Face Off
Sunday 22nd December – Raiders v Bristol Pitbulls 5.15pm Face Off
Sunday 29th December – Raiders v Berkshire Bees 5.15pm Face Off
Romford Raiders are thrilled to announce the signing of forward Zach Yokoyama, following his release from Telford Tigers earlier this week.
The 23-year-old joins the Raiders after contributing four goals and nine assists for a total of 13 points in just 12 games with National League rivals Telford Tigers.
Yokoyama began this season with the Tigers after an impressive three seasons with Nottingham Lions in the NIHL North 1. Yokoyama recorded 48 points, including 30 goals last season for the Lions, earning him a chance in the National League.
Prior to his arrival in England, Yokoyama played his junior career in Switzerland before a two season spell in USA, before returning to his native routes of Switzerland. Zach arrives as an import player and adds depth in the absence of player/coach Adam Laishram.
“Zach is a player that I am looking forward to welcoming to our lineup this weekend. He is a fast and skilful forward who will complement our roster nicely, as he comes in as cover for Laish while he continues his recovery from injury. Zach is a high energy and intensity guy who plays on the edge and will drag everyone into the battle. Having worked with Zach at GB Students, I am looking forward to working with him again, and seeing what he can do in Gold and Blue.” – Lewis Jones
“With some uncertainty regarding injuries and two important cup fixtures this weekend, we are pleased to have agreed terms with Zach on short-term injury cover, whose style of play will complement our lineup well.“ – Adam Laishram
Please join us in welcoming Owen Rider to the gold & Blue Army!
Owen joins us from Invicta Dynamos where he has spent the last 5 years of his career. Owen also iced for the Bristol Pitbulls where he was called upon at the start of the season.
Our player / coach Adam Laishram, had this to say regarding Owen joining the Raiders –
We are excited to have Owen join us full-time. Owen has a strong work ethic and is keen to prove he belongs in the national league. We believe he will be a strong support for Ethan and contribute significantly to our team’s success for the remainder of the season.
