Ryan Tait hails 'team effort' as Sheffield Steelers hit Guldford Flames for six
Ryan Tait struck twice against his former team
Ryan Tait returned to haunt his former club Guildford Flames with two goals as Sheffield Steelers claimed an impressive 6-3 Elite League victory at the Spectrum on Saturday night.
The Steelers forward struck twice against his old teammates, helping Aaron Fox's side secure two valuable league points ahead of Sunday's home encounter with Coventry Blaze.
But despite his personal contribution, Tait was quick to praise the collective effort of his teammates, particularly goaltender Matt Greenfield and fellow forward Mikko Juusola.
Sheffield had endured difficult visits to Guildford earlier in the season, but a blistering opening period saw the visitors race into a 3-0 lead thanks to two goals from Brien Diffley and another from acting captain Evan Jasper.
And Tait admitted that making such a positive start had been particularly important.
"We've had a tough time getting starts going in Guildford," he said.
"It's a tough place to play. They're a good team, so it was really good to get on the board early and for a good team effort.
"Everyone contributing, and some big saves from Greener in the end. So, good team effort."
The Steelers saw their advantage reduced on several occasions, but always managed to find a response, with Liam Steele also on target before Tait took centre stage against his former employers.
His first goal came late in the second period, restoring Sheffield's three-goal advantage after Guildford had threatened to fight their way back into the contest.
And the forward was happy to explain how the move developed.
"Robbie Stucker turned it up quick, and then made a play to Dom (Cormier)," explained Tait.
"Then Dom got me in the slot, and I just tried to get it off quick. It's lucky that it went in."
With the Flames continuing to push forward in the third period, Tait eventually put the result beyond doubt with his second goal of the evening, completing the scoring at 6-3.
But rather than take the credit for his finish, the former Guildford favourite was full of praise for Juusola, whose determination created the opportunity.
"That was all Mikko. That was all Mikko. That wasn't me," insisted Tait.
"It was a good effort from the five that were out there after Guildford pulled their goalie for a 6th attacker.
"Erkamps went hard off the glass, and Mikko beat out the icing.
"It's like one on four down there, and he found a way to find me in front. I was happy to finish it off."