(Image permission: Steve Brodie)
LANCASHIRE, UK – Telford Tigers 2 will head into the upcoming weekend full of confidence after producing a pair impressive performances in their opening two games of the season.
The Tigers kicked-off their Laidler D2 campaign with big victories over Deeside Dragons and Altrincham Aces to send out a message to the rest of the division.
The Shropshire side host Widnes Wild on Saturday before visiting Deeside the following day and defenceman Josh Hustwick is confident the team can record two more wins.
“It’s been a fantastic start to the season for us getting two huge results against Deeside and a strong Altrincham team,” he said.
“We are looking to carry our performances into the weekend and are aiming for points points again. The way we are playing and the way we have gelled as a team, I don’t see why we can’t get the job done again.”
Telford’s roster has been boosted for the weekend with the addition of utility man Simon Harrison.
The 28-year-old was part of the squad last season, but an injury forced him off the ice. However, he is now fully recovered and player/coach Callum Bowley is delighted to have him back in the ranks.
“I’m pleased to welcome Si back after a difficult season due to injury, but that all seems to be behind him now and I’m glad he’s back in the line-up,” said Bowley.
“He plays with his heart on his sleeve, always turns up prepared to battle for the team, is a consistent player and leads by example.
“Si certainly gives us more depth and quality given he can play as a forward or defenceman. He will be a massive boost to our line-up.”
The Autumn Cup continues this weekend with two double-headers between sides from NIHL North and South.
Sheffield Steeldogs take on Peterborough Phantoms, while Telford Tigers face Swindon Wildcats.
Telford lost their opening two games in the competition, while Swindon have won three out of four matches, but Wildcats’ forward Sam Bullas is taking nothing for granted.
“Playing Telford is never easy and I am expecting a really different weekend,” he told the Swindon Advertiser.
“I think it is always interesting when you play a team for the first time and we always have good, feisty battles with Telford.
“There is a very fine line between being bullied on the ice and being overwhelmed.
“You have to be very careful because penalties are a big thing now with new rules in the league with regards to bans.
“Everyone has to be cautious because you can be given some very long suspensions. It’s important we don’t get drawn into that because we have such a skilful side, so we won’t let them impact us.”
WEEKEND FIXTURES
Moralee D1
Saturday
Solway Sharks v Solihull Barons
Sutton Sting v Whitley Warriors
Sunday
Blackburn Hawks v Solihull Barons
Nottingham Lions v Hull Pirates
Laidler D2
Saturday
Blackburn Hawks 2 v Deeside Dragons
Bradford Bulldogs v Sheffield Senators
Telford Tigers 2 v Widnes Wild
Sunday
Altrincham Aces v Blackburn Hawks 2
Deeside Dragons v Telford Tigers 2
Sheffield Senators v Hull Jets
NIHL North Cup
Saturday
Hull Pirates v Billingham Stars
Sunday
Billingham Stars v Solway Sharks
NIHL Autumn Cup
Saturday
Peterborough Phantoms v Sheffield Steeldogs
Swindon Wildcats v Telford Tigers
Sunday
Sheffield Steeldogs v Peterborough Phantoms
Telford Tigers v Swindon Wildcats
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