SLOUGH Jets head coach Lukas Smital believes the 7-2 win away at Cardiff Fire is evidence that his side has grown as a team.

The Jets took a clear lead into the first buzzer on Sunday thanks to goals from Harry Harcup and Samuel Talbot.

Cardiff pulled one back at the start of the middle period through Stephen Deacons, but the visitors went on the offensive again with Ryan Handisides and Nathan Darmanin finding the back of the net.

Goals from Daniel Rose and Smital further extended the advantage, before Jordan Powell netted a consolation effort for the home side.

Slough had the final say in the match when Sean Norris scored with nine minutes left on the clock.

Smital told the Observer: “I thought we played really well from start to finish and dominated in all areas.

“I wouldn’t say it was comfortable because we had to work hard, but at no point did I think we were going to lose.

“We replied to their goals immediately and got away from them.

“I thought Cardiff would be stronger than last season, but we’ve got stronger and those that weren’t visible last year showed on Sunday. We’ve grown as a team in the last couple of weeks and it showed.”

The win means Slough have moved up to sixth position in the league table ahead of a visit to the Slough Ice Rink from Peterborough Phantoms this Saturday (5.45pm).

Smital said: “We don’t know what to expect from Peterborough but I’ve heard they have a strong squad so it will be another tough game.

“We lost 15-0 away to Peterborough in the first game of last season but then beat them at home when they made a few changes.

“If we’re willing to put our bodies on the line it will still be a tough one but hopefully we will get away with the two points.”

He added: “Hopefully back-to-back wins has had an effect on the team. Winning creates a good feeling and there was a good atmosphere after the game on Saturday.”

"The guys are starting to feel what it's like to win and hopefully we can continue that this Saturday."

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