Article Source: Paisley Pirates
Last Updated: 6 October 2014 10:06
The waiting is almost over for Paisley Pirates fans waiting to see their beloved favourites on home ice once again. It’s been more than 6 months since many followers last saw their team on the Braehead Arena ice in March of this year, but that wait comes to an end this weekend, their first appearance on a Saturday at the Arena for many years, when they go head to head with the Belfast Giants in their first home Scottish National League fixture, the match facing off at the slightly earlier than usual time of 5.30pm.
Pirates have got off to a good start this year, having already played 3 matches on the road, recording two big wins against Ayrshire opponents, brewing up a Storm against Kilmarnock in winning 9-0, while making North Ayrshire go Wild as they recorded an impressive 7-2 against the hosts to qualify for the semi finals of the Autumn Cup against the Solway Sharks. They didn’t enjoy the best of fortunes against the Kirkcaldy Kestrels, however, going down by the odd goal in seven against their high flying opponents, whose superior fitness proved to be vital at the end of the Pirates’ first Scottish National League fixture in Fife, at a venue where it has been traditionally difficult to record an away win.
However, there is an air of confidence in the camp which has been generated by the team performances so far, and they go into their first home match against the Giants bolstered by the fact that unlike last season, they have had the chance to practice and play, if not with the frequency which they would have liked, then at least in the knowledge that their level of fitness is improving with every passing week, while their performances on the ice give much encouragement to suggest that a better league position than the final 5th place is well within their reach in a league which becomes more competitive, and of a higher standard, with every passing season.
Coach Ian Turley will ensure, however, that there is no over confidence in the ranks which could contribute to an upset, with Pirates starting favourites to record a home win over their Irish visitors. There have been a few changes in personnel over the summer which will see a few new faces take to the ice on Saturday, while several players from last year’s squad have moved on.
Admission prices have been held for the 5th consecutive season, with the maximum entry price being £7 for adults, with the usual full range of discounts for families, senior citizens, students, and the like on offer, ensuring that once again supporters will be guaranteed excellent value for money.
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