NEWCASTLE,U.K- Elite league Newcastle Vipers will be aiming to secure a victory against Edinburgh Capitals this Sunday (Oct 12) in order to keep their Challenge Cup campaign alive. Head-coach Rob Wilson stated the Challenge Cup was one trophy his side could capture this season however after last weeks 7-2 home defeat to the Manchester Phoenix, Vipers need a secure the two points against the Caps this Sunday evening at Whitley Bay in order to keep their challenge alive. In theory playing the game at Hillheads should give the home side a sizeable advantage though last weeks embarrassing three period capitulation against the Phoenix seems to suggest that the compact rink didn’t aid the Vipers at all. Rob Rankin and Tyler Willis picked up goals in that game and both will be looking to rack up some more points this weekend after slow starts to the season for both men. Rankin has had a troubled season so far arriving late due to Visa problems and he has since struggled to find form and adapt to his new line mates at the Newcastle based franchise. It is hoped Willis is now finding his feet after improved performances in the last few games.
The Vipers other remaining Challenge Cup games are difficult road trips at early pace setters Belfast Giants and last years Play Off Champions the Sheffield Steelers. Giant’s only loss this season did come against the Vipers but Steve Thornton’s side blew the Vipers away in the Odyssey and it would take a tremendous performance from Wilson’s side to come away with the points from Northern Ireland. The trip to South Yorkshire to take on the Steelers is no easier task as the Steelers have started to get their act together in recent weeks. Ashley Tait has been posting some impressive points so far this season and Steelers will be sure to be up for the Challenge Cup after a mixed start to their league season.
Vipers are also in League action on Saturday (Oct 11) night in Hampshire taking on the Basingstoke Bison. Vipers beat Bison on penalty shots after a 5-5 tie on Tyneside early in the season and the Bison will be looking to get revenge for that defeat. Former Viper enforcer Jeremy Cornish will also be looking to settle a score with Chris McAllister after McAllister opened Cornish up in the same game.
Contact the author at Chris.mckenzie@prohockeynews.com
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