In no doubt a response to the lack of defensive pressure and inability to shut down opposition teams, the Melbourne Mustangs have welcomed new import goaltender Oliver Wren to the club.
Wren, 24, from Oakville, Ontario, Canada, just graduated from Brockport State University in Buffalo, NY, where he played college hockey in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) for four years.
His former coach, Brian Dickinson, said of Wren that he is "one of the hardest working players I've ever coached".
"He's quick laterally and handles the puck well," said Dickinson. "He understands the game and is constantly working to make himself better.
"You [couldn’t] have a more dedicated player on your team."
Wren took the opportunity to play here in Australia before other leagues started up for their seasons.
Wren said the Mustangs coach, Bill Wilkinson, called him about playing for the club, looking for a goalie to help the team.
While Wren was disappointed with his performance against the Newcastle North Stars on Saturday, being swapped out for Michael James halfway through the second period when the score stood at 6-1, he could be forgiven, having only arrived in Australia on Thursday, June 21.
Wren still started against the Sydney Ice Dogs on Sunday, the 2-0 score (with the Ice Dogs winning the game) better reflecting Wren’s skill in net.
The club will be hoping that the arrival of Wren can mark an end to their 2012 season form so far, having only won two from 11 games played.
One thing that the Mustangs know they are getting in Wren however is a proven game-changer.
He was instrumental in Brockport State's first win against Plattsburgh in over 30 years and hopes to bring that mentality with him over the Melbourne.
Coach Dickinson maintains that Wren will no doubt be well worth the punt and no doubt with the guidance of Coach Wilkinson, he will be sure to cherish in this new environment.
The club welcomes him and wishes him the best for the season.