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Time for Steelers to step up to the plate
DAVE Matsos has been called a few names in the last few weeks. With his Sheffield Steelers' team in freefall at the bottom of the Elite League, most have been uncomplimentary.
But one label rebellious fans won't be able to pin on Matsos is "quitter."
He isn't about to fall on his sword because of the form which has seen Steelers lose seven out of the last eight league games.
Matsos has been having sleepless nights on top of his nightmare days.
But asked, in his lowest moments, whether he'd considered offering his resignation, Matsos told The Star: "I have never once thought about quitting. I don't like what is going on and I won't deflect the blame from myself and the players. But it is not in my personality to crawl away - no way.
"The owner (Bob Phillips) has been patient but that will wear thin. Management have done their bit - players have not gone without equipment or pay cheques. Nobody else put us in this position other than us.
"I don't know what my fate is but I won't stop if I have to do some things that go against the grain.
"In the past I have got rid of Dan Tessier, Brett Clouthier and kept Jody Lehman against the wishes of the club but I am proud I took those decisions because I did them for the right reasons.
"Yes, there is instability here right now - but we know we are all accountable. Now is the time for everybody to step up to the plate."
Matsos decided not to train his skaters on ice on Tuesday, restricting exercise to gym work.
"I thought it might do some good to break away (from normal procedure) for me as well as the guys.
"People have been very unhappy in the (dressing) room but we just have to start putting some wins together."
The effect of so many losses has had a traumatic effect on skipper Jonathan Phillips, too, revealed Matsos.
"He has taken it hard because he has such a big heart. He takes pride in wearing our shirt and he takes his concerns away with him when he leaves the Arena. He is very disappointed right now to the point of being nauseous."
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Weather for Sheffield
Thursday 09 February 2012
Today
Light snow
Temperature: -1 C to 1 C
Wind Speed: 7 mph
Wind direction: South west
Tomorrow
Light snow
Temperature: -2 C to 1 C
Wind Speed: 13 mph
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