SWINDON Wildcats head coach Ryan Aldridge is confident his side can go to Manchester and get a result after coming away with what he described as a ‘fair’ draw in the first leg of their Challenge Cup semi-final.

Swindon had to come from behind three times during their first leg 3-3 tie with Manchester Phoenix to ensure they gave themselves the best opportunity in making the final.

Aaron Nell twice hauled his side back into the contest before Adam Harding applied the finishing touch to make keep the tie level at the half way stage.

Aldridge, whose side have not lost in four meetings to last year’s league champions yet this season, is confident his young side can book their place in the final next month.

“I think it was a fair result in the end,” said the Link Centre boss after the match.

“We made a few little mistakes but I thought on the most part we played well.

“They are a good hockey team and we’ve got a new import and a new line, to tie it up to give us an even game going into their building is very important.

“To tie it up close to the end like that is probably massive.

“I have got no hesitations going there and winning. I think there is definitely a chance to go and do that.

“I would take my team against anybody on a given night and I think we have a really good chance of going there and winning.”

New signing Tomas Kana made his first start for the Wildcats despite only landing in the country on Tuesday.

The Czech centre looked match rusty but showed glimpses of his skill, including setting up Nell’s second, and Aldridge believes he can play a key role in bringing silverware back to Swindon.

“He has been off the ice for a little while but he is in a new team, new equipment, the first time in our rink and I was impressed with what I saw today,” he added.

“To see him settle in with the team and work out what kind of player he is and how he can fit in, but he will be a good player.

“He looks for the net and is smart hockey player.

“He is probably not going to use as much energy as Henri (Sandvik) but we are looking for him to put more numbers up then Henri there is no doubt about that.”