Billingham Stars face two very different encounters this weekend as they travel to English Premier League leaders The Tigers for their final British Challenge Cup fixture this afternoon, followed by a National Ice Hockey League (North) Moralee Division One clash with Whitley Warriors at the Forum tomorrow night.
While the priority for Billingham is undoubtedly the league, the Ultimate Windows Stars intend to ice the strongest squads possible.
The team is on the road to wellness after a bout of flu hit them hard in last weekend’s 5-4 defeat at Solway Sharks, however the Teessiders will still be without key players.
Jamie Pattison and Garry Dowd have still not fully recovered from their shoulder and hand injuries and will not play, while Andy Finn and Andy Munroe are both unavailable for today’s game in Telford.
Mark Watson returns to the squad, and young Under-18s defenceman Will Robson will be called up to partner the experienced Richie Thornton at the back.
Billingham general manager Allen Flavell is expecting an action-packed weekend.
“Our last Challenge Cup fixture couldn’t be tougher – taking on the Tigers on their own ice when we’re short at the back will require a massive effort.
“But we have already shown on many occasions this season that we’re more than capable of putting up a good performance against them.
“Tomorrow is another story entirely – we need the league points and so do Whitley.
“The league table is very tight at the top with six out the seven teams still fighting it out.
“It’s sure to be a typical blood-and-thunder derby with plenty of action on and off the puck.
“The guys are returning to fitness after our illness troubles and everyone is up for a battle royal.”
The Tigers recently dropped their home town of Telford from their moniker and are running away with the EPL this season under new owners Red Touch Media.
The Shropshire outfit are also sitting pretty at the top of the Cup standings, and will remain so regardless of today’s result.
The Tigers expect to welcome back defenceman Dan Scott to their line-up after a goalmouth collision during a tie with Sheffield Steeldogs in early December left him with concussion.
Tyneside neighbours Whitley visit the Forum for the first time this season tomorrow evening with the league clash vital to both sides.
Just three points separate second from second-bottom, the tightest league competition for many years, and with the play-offs looming every point is critical.
The Warriors have started to find some form, coinciding with the return of prolific forward Adam Reynolds from injury, and saw off defending champions Solway Sharks 5-3 at Hillheads last Sunday.
Today’s cup game in Telford is a 5.30pm face-off, while tomorrow’s league derby starts at 6.30pm.
Tickets for the Whtiley game can be bought from Billingham Forum box office from 5.30pm on game night priced £8 adults, £5.50 concessions and £25 family (2+2).
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