Halbert suspended for one game for boarding

Blaze defenseman given suspension

Coventry were informed of this DOPS verdict at 11:53am on 7/11/21.

On Saturday night in Cardiff, Coventry Blaze Defenceman Nathanael Halbert was assessed a Major and Game Misconduct Boarding penalty on this play involving Devils forward Josh Waller, which caused him to be thrown dangerously into the boards, causing an injury removing him from the game.

A boarding penalty shall be assessed on any player who checks or pushes a defenceless opponent in such a manner that causes the opponent to hit or impact the boards violently or dangerously.

The duty is on the player applying the check to ensure their opponent is not in a defenceless position and, if so, they must avoid or minimise contact.

As the video shows, the Devils are in the attacking zone. Waller, in possession of the puck, heads towards the Blaze goal and is held up by Halbert forcing him towards the corner of the ice. Initially, this is a good defensive play until Halbert uses his free hand to wrap Waller, holding him and forcing him to the ice worthy of a minor penalty.

It is important to note that Halbert is in control of this play at all times. What rises this incident to the level of supplemental discipline, is that after the initial hold, we see Waller falling to the ice still being held by Halbert. At this stage, Waller is at a dangerous distance from the boards and in a vulnerable position unable to protect himself. Instead of Halbert releasing Waller or leaving him to continue to the ice naturally, we see Halbert with a secondary motion force Waller backwards into the boards with his head making contact with the boards. This is Boarding. 

To summarise:

• Boarding
• Waller suffered an injury on the play
• Halbert has neither been fined or suspended during the 21/22 EIHL Season.

Effective immediately, Coventry Blaze #74 Nathanael Halbert is fined and suspended for one game.