Cardiff Devils’ Mark Richardson set to make history

Cardiff Devils’ longest-serving player Mark Richardson will break a remarkable record in British hockey on Sunday evening by making the most appearances in the Elite League.

When the 39-year-old Richardson takes to the ice at the Vindico Arena against Fife Flyers, his tally of EIHL games will reach 1,778, breaking the record of the Sheffield Steelers legend, Cardiff-born Jonathan Phillips.

Last year Richardson broke another Phillips record when he became the most capped player for Great Britain, reaching 117 games.

“If there’s anyone who’s going to do it, I’m most pleased that it is Richie,” Phillips said.

“He really is the ultimate professional. He’s an absolute one of a kind.

“The success Cardiff have had over the last 10 years or so, Richie has been a huge part of that.

“The way he presents himself, he plays hard, he plays tough, but in that respectful way.

“He’s the voice of reason. He’s someone who could pick up a group just with his presence. Being there to spread positivity without doing much, just his presence.

“You just can’t say enough good things about him.”