SWINDON Wildcats got off the perfect start against Bracknell Bees thanks to Ciaran Long's early strike but at the end of the period were pegged back by the home side.

Boosted by last night's win over Romford, Wildcats started well with Long slotting the puck under ex-Swindon netminder Gregg Rockman at 3.57.

With Bracknell's Peter Jasik in the penalty box, Swindon had the chance to extend their lead but John Wheaton, Joel Petkoff and Lee Richardson were all denied.

Tomas Janak and Wheaton then combined with the former, sliding the puck past Rockman only for Kurt Reynolds to clear off the line.

And Swindon were made to pay for their missed chances when Jan Vrtik was sitting out a high sticks penalty.

Bracknell took full advantage, scoring late in the powerplay with Sam Oakfold beating Nathan Craze at 13.32

SECOND PERIOD REPORT TO FOLLOW...