In a magnificent fighting finish, Panthers regained the National League Championship they won for the first time in 1951. Panthers hoisted themselves from the celler dwellers of the Autumn Cup to defeat the red-hot favourites Streatham to the title. A lot of credit must go to coach Archie Stinchcombe, who nursed his outfit along, undeterred by setbacks and always with his object the major prize of the league title. For once too, credit must go to that oft maligned bunch of men, the board of directors. Stinchcombe told of the weak spots in the team, they listened carefully, then gave their support to finding men who would strengthen the club. In this way Bill Maslenko, a forward from Winnipeg recommended highly by other players, was brought over. The back division looked weak. Fortunately former Panther Bill Allen had been playing for a Quebec club which had folded. He was soon persuaded to return. Panthers looked a better team now but as they entered the National League schedule, Archie still wasn’t happy about his defence. Cables buzzed back and forth to Canada and Lorne Smith, All Star in his first year of British hockey the season before, agreed to come back. That was just the lift the Panthers needed. They started off like whirlwinds, faltered a little down the home stretch, then with one point needed from their last game at Brighton, drew 5-5 and copped the title. Skipper Les Strongman, still by the experts as one of , if not the, best left winger in the league, was consistent as usual. Centre Chick Zamick must now be hardened to the critics who say "Chick isn’t what he used to be!" But the smoke and fire of battle ceases and what do we find? Mr Zamick, high and dry at the top of the scoring heap. Rookie Maslenko didn’t always live up to his reputation but came through in the final vital games with valuable goals which more than earned his passage money. Ernie Dougherty and winger George Horb had to battle to establish themselves. Dougherty, tall and willowy showed touches of playmaking brilliance. By the end of the season he was the most improved player and if he could become a little more robust would be a real winner. It's difficult to assess Horb. A much travelled man, he looked to be a strong candidate for "Rookie" honours early on, but apparently couldn't fit in with Zamick & Stongman and was never as effective on the 2nd line. This line was ably led by English League veteran Bill "Bull" Ringer. No-one worked harder than "Bull". No cause lost when he was in the line-up. On D Gerry Watson finally emerged from the shadows. He was a certainty for All Star honours. A dangerous rusher he still doubled well in defensive work. After the arrival of Lorne Smith the pair made a formidable duo. The records show though that the other pair was often more effective surprisingly. Beefy Bill Allen, cool under pressure, clicked well with veteran native born and bred Doug Wilson, who in a chequered career with Wembley, Streatham and Brighton had been chiefly noted for bull-like charges which on at least one occasion resulted in him being stretchered off the ice. Now we saw a different player, not elegant but effective. Head up he waited for the forward to come to him, then poke-checked the puck away or hip-checked the man. For the first time since their formation Nottingham were happy with their netman. Jack Siemon, was All Star with Perth Panthers, then had a brief whirl with pro hockey before joining Panthers.