TRISTAN HARPER has confessed Braehead Clan needed their 6-0 triumph over Coventry Blaze to halt their ‘lagging’ run.

The Glasgow club battered their Elite League opponents on home ice on Saturday night in what was their first win in four games stretching back to October 17.

It delivered a much-appreciated two points for Ryan Finnerty’s side that currently sit eighth in the table, but, more importantly, it offered up a commanding display and winning-margin to boost morale.

Scottish forward Harper admits that the showings from last year’s runners up have not been up to their usual high standards in recent weeks.

But the man who spends his time doubling up as a male model was delighted with a picture perfect performance against the Blaze at the weekend.

“It’s a good feeling to get back on track,” said the 27-year-old.

“We had a pretty good plan. Finner chatted with the lines individually and set out exactly what he wanted from us. We had a good idea going into the game. Before it we were mentally prepared.

“Obviously to get a 6-0 win was fantastic, but I think the scoreline helped us get over the hump. We were lagging a little bit up to that point.

“We are starting to build up a relationship.

“I find that sometimes we click right away sometimes it takes a wee while. I think that’s starting to happen now.

“We are still learning about each other but overall there’s nothing bad to say about anyone.”

As is always the case in the hockey world, a high turnover in playing staff can sometimes slow down progression.

That is perhaps what we have seen at Braehead, with Finnerty bringing in players to fill around 50 per cent of his squad during the off season.

One of the most crucial acquisitions was undoubtedly netminder Chris Holt. The former National Hockey League man replaced fan favourite Kyle Jones and has continued to impress since his arrival, notching up an impressive 92 per cent save rate.

“Holt did some outstanding saves and blocked shots along with the defence,” said Harper of his goalie’s latest clean sheet. “Coventry had some good chances but Holt and the guys in front of him were incredible.

“Chris is a really good guy. There’s not a bad bone in his body and he just wants to win.

“At first it’s a little strange getting used to him, just because we were used to Kyle. But that’s what happens in hockey.”

While last year’s Elite League title turned into a two-horse race between Sheffield Steelers and Clan – the two sides meet in Glasgow this Saturday – this year’s campaign looks a much tighter affair.

Despite eight points separating leaders Belfast Giants and Braehead, Clan would leap to the top of the table if they were to win all their games in hand, with others in between also facing a similar situation.

“There’s been a lot of changes,” said Harper “Teams are expecting to do badly and are doing well – and vice versa. It’s going to be a close one.

“The League has changed a lot. Coaching staff have changed and it brings a different presence. The whole league has adapted. Edinburgh Capitals didn’t do too well but now they are on the up and beat Sheffield at the weekend.

“It’s way more of a challenge and we enjoy the games more. It keeps everyone on their toes. We need to go with it. As long as we get the win, we will enjoy it.”