Forwards Ciaran Long and Tom Duggan both found the target in Basingstoke

Manchester Phoenix were in seventh heaven last night as a 5-0 victory over Basingstoke Bison in Hampshire took their winning steak to seven.

British centre Tom Duggan returned to the lineup having injured his shoulder against Milton Keynes in December, leaving only player coach Tony Hand (ankle) unable to participate.

The visitors opened the scoring in the first period through Ciaran Long and led going into the second period.

James Neil added a second before James Archer put Phoenix three to the good in the second period. Duggan then added a fourth and Long doubled his tally for the night before the second break.

Neither team managed to score in the final session and netminder Steve Fone, who was solid throughout, was rewarded with his second shutout of the season.

Phoenix hope to extend their winning run and take on Milton Keynes on Sunday at Altrincham (5.30pm).