After a weekend off the Building Craftsmen Dumfries-sponsored Solway Sharks return to action on Saturday at home to Billingham Stars in the Northern Cup (7.00pm face off at the Ice Bowl).
The Sharks are flying high in the League with five wins from five and currently have two wins from three Cup matches. Their most recent Cup match was a thrilling come from behind win in Billingham where they overturned a 5-2 deficit to win 6-5 in sudden death overtime.
The visitors arrive in Dumfries buoyed by two wins last weekend and they are top of the Cup standings and second behind the Sharks in league play.
Since Solway joined the EIHA system games between Sharks and Stars have been keenly contested, fast skilful affairs played in a good spirit with excellent support from both sets of fans in the stands.
Looking ahead to the game, Sharks coach Martin Grubb said: “The break gave us a chance to rest some aches and pains but I would preferred to keep playing and keep the momentum we’ve gained so far this season.
“I am happy with how we’ve started the season but there is still room for improvement and we continue to work hard in practice to get things right.
“Billingham have impressed me this season with their speed and skill and they took advantage of our free week to jump up in both league and cup tables. No doubt they will be right up there come the season’s end.
“We have been working hard on limiting scoring chances against us and playing solid team defence. Kieran has been good in nets and given us the chance to win each night – I was pleased he got his deserved shutout against Sutton. There’s a solid defensive core and this is the foundation that we build our success on.
“There’s a good mix of youth and experience in the squad and everyone is hungry to play and buy in to our philosophy. We will be ready to go come Saturday night.”
BCD Solway Sharks are next at home against Billingham Stars in NIHL Northern Cup action on Saturday 22 October. Faceoff at Dumfries Ice Bowl is 7pm, doors open at 6pm. Tickets are on sale from Ice Bowl reception £8 adults, £5 concessions. Under 16 are free with a paying adult. Season tickets are valid for the NIHL Cup games.
