Lyle Hits 75 International Caps As GB Miss Out On Olympic Final Qualifiers

Swindon Wildcats' netminder Stevie Lyle hit an impressive 75 caps for Great Britain this weekend, as the national side battled it out in Cortina in the Olympic qualifiers.

And Lyle was able to mark the occasion with a win in Saturday's dominant 6-2 display over Serbia. 

Sadly for Pete Russell's Great Britain side it was not to be the fairytale ending many envisaged, after defeat to the hands Italy meant Team GB would not advance to the final stage of qualifying.

The GB troops were aiming to make their first winter Olympics since 1948 and looked to be in good shape following a 6-2 victory over Serbia.

But Sunday evening saw the Italians block their path at the final hurdle, snatching away any remnants of hope of Olympic qualification. 

The Italians finished the first period three goals to the good, after capitalising upon two early chances each on the powerplay.

Italy added their fourth before Ashley Tait pulled one back for Pete Russell's side. GB would score again, as David Clarke tipped the puck between the pipes, but a further two goals from the men in blue saw Italy ease through 6-2 victors. 

GB MEN: A team photo with the brilliant Great Britain supporters. Thanks for all your backing. It was amazing pic.twitter.com/Tyfzv8ZIYK

— Team GB Ice Hockey (@TeamGBicehockey) February 15, 2016

Lyle will now return to link up with the Wildcats once more, who face last season's play-off champions Peterborough on Saturday, before travelling to face Guildford on Sunday.