BRACKNELL Bees have considered appealing against the six-match suspension handed out to their leading goal scorer, Frankie Bakrlik, writes Dave Wright.

The Czech was charged by the National Ice Hockey League of a ‘blind-side hit to the head of an unsuspecting opponent’ in the away game with Invicta Dynamos on November 5.

He had been involved in a challenge with Mason Webster during the five-minute overtime period which saw the Invicta player crash to the ice and lay prone for some time.

Bees argued Webster had ducked into Bakrlik’s shoulder as he challenged for the puck, while they were also unhappy at seeing disparaging comments made about their 34-year-old import on social media after the match.

Earlier in the game, which Bracknell won 5-4, Webster had exchanged words with Bakrlik before becoming involved in a drawn-out fight with Bees defender Josh Tetlow.

Bees director Stuart Robinson said there will be a discussion among fellow officials about a possible appeal, which would mean them having to pay a fee.

Bakrlik’s ban comes at a time when Bees continue to be without player-coach Scott Spearing, who is still recovering after taking a heavy knock to his head in a fall while at his place of work last month.

He did get to the Hive on Saturday to watch the game and said he is due to see specialist in London soon.

Through the Bracknell News, he said he would like to thank all those Bees fans who have sent him get-well messages and support.

Spearing is hoping to be back coaching shortly, but it could be some time before he will get the all-clear to resume playing.