Guildford vs Fife Prediction at 17-01-2026

Recent Form and Performance Metrics

The Guildford Flames come into this fixture with a mixed record over their last five matches, registering two wins and three losses. Despite a recent disappointing defeat against the Sheffield Steelers, the Flames will look to bounce back on home ice where they have historically performed well. Their ability to generate offensive pressure has been evident, with an average of 3.2 goals scored per game across the last month, but they need to tighten up defensively, as they’ve leaked an average of 3.5 goals during the same span.

On the other hand, the Fife Flyers are riding high on a three-match winning streak, showcasing their improved play after a rocky start to the season. They have displayed a solid defensive structure, conceding just 2.5 goals per game recently, and a potent offense that has scored an impressive 4.0 goals per game. Their triumph over the Cardiff Devils proved their mettle and confidence, setting them up perfectly for a challenging matchup in Guildford.

Key Players and Matchups

• Guildford Flames: Look out for forward John McCoy, who has been the driving force behind Guildford's offense, with a streak of eight points in his last five games. On the defensive front, veteran defenseman James Houghton will be crucial in shutting down Fife's fast-paced gameplay.
• Fife Flyers: For the Flyers, forward Mark Sherry has emerged as a standout, dominating the scoresheet in recent matches. Meanwhile, goalie Sam Elder could prove to be the difference-maker if he maintains his form, especially playing away from home.

Statistics and Head-to-Head Records

Over their last ten meetings, the contest has been fiercely contested with both teams evenly matched, each claiming five victories. The most recent encounter in November saw Guildford edge out Fife 4-3 in a nail-biter, illustrating the close nature of their rivalry. For the current season, Guildford is averaging 3.1 goals scored per game while Fife sits at 3.4, showcasing their offensive prowess. Both squads also possess solid special teams, each converting over 20% on the power play, hinting at the potential for fireworks during man-advantage situations.

External Factors Impacting the Game

Weather conditions are expected to be mild for January, with clear skies, allowing for optimal ice conditions at the Guildford Spectrum. The Flyers will face the challenge of playing on the road, where they’ve historically struggled, while Guildford thrives in front of their home crowd, which will undoubtedly create an electric atmosphere. Injury reports indicate that Guildford's forward, Luke Carter, might be sidelined, which could impact their depth and overall strategy. Conversely, Fife has a clean bill of health, allowing them to field their strongest lineup.