Jaroslav Spelda celebrated the birth of his daughter with a goal on his debut for Manchester Phoenix.

The Czech defenceman scored an empty netter in the 4-1 win over Sheffield Steeldogs as Phoenix lifted the War of the Roses trophy with a 8-5 aggregate win.

Spelda was hoping to return home in time for the birth but the youngster arrived just a couple of hours before face off.

Player-coach Tony Hand was satisfied with his side’s display and said: “The guys played really well to win because Sheffield are a lot stronger this season and gave us a tough test.

“They are a bit ahead of us in preparation and I wanted a good workout ahead of the league programme which starts next week.”

Phoenix went three down in Sheffield on Saturday night but goals from Martin Cingel, Slava Koulikov, Stephen Wallace and James Archer earned them a draw.

The Steeldogs, with three former Phoenix players in their ranks, fancied their chances in Altrincham but after a goalless first period Tony Hand’s men took control.

First Koulikov netted then Phoenix surged ahead with powerplay goals from Juraj Faith and Wallace.

Chris Sykes pulled a goal back for Sheffield in the third period but Phoenix defended solidly and when the Steeldogs pulled their netminder with just over a minute left Spelda fired in the fourth.

Phoenix begin the defence of their English Premier League title next week in Slough on Saturday and at home to Basingstoke on Sunday (5.30pm)