picture by Craig Chalmers
A big weekend in the Scottish National League (SNL), featuring six compelling matchups that promise excitement, rivalries, and potential shifts in the league standings.
Saturday Highlights:
First up on Saturday, the Dundee Comets will face off against the Kirkcaldy Kestrels at Dundee Ice Arena in a double point game. The Kestrels, sitting in 2nd place, have the opportunity for a massive 6-point weekend, as they also play on Sunday against the Edinburgh Capitals. However, the Comets, who secured a 4-2 win against the Kestrels in their last SNL meeting, are determined to replicate that success in this crucial 4-point game. A victory for the Comets could catapult them into contention at the top of the table, making this matchup one to watch for fans from all teams.
In another exciting clash, league leaders Aberdeen Lynx will face the Paisley Pirates. With the Lynx on a six-game winning streak and a dominant 9-1 win against the Pirates in their last encounter, the Pirates are seeking redemption. Expect a physical battle as the Lynx strive to maintain their winning form, while the Pirates aim to upset the league leaders.
Kilmarnock Thunder and North Ayrshire Wild will also go head-to-head on Saturday. Thunder started the season at the top of the league, but after suffering a few losses, now seeks to climb back up the leaderboard. With one win each in their previous encounters, this matchup promises intensity as both teams vie for crucial points.
On Saturday, the Edinburgh Capitals are set to compete against the Dundee Tigers. Both teams are currently tied at 10 points each, and interestingly, they haven’t faced each other in the ongoing season, injecting an air of unpredictability into the upcoming match. This marks the initial clash of two games scheduled for the Capitals and the Tigers this weekend, presenting a chance for them to secure up to 4 points. While their primary focus is on securing a victory, both teams will be mindful of the challenging game scheduled for the following day, emphasising the need to manage their energy wisely. As we’re aware, any team in the SNL possesses the capability to secure a triumph on any given night.
Sunday Showdown:
On Sunday, the Kirkcaldy Kestrels and Edinburgh Capitals will face off in Fife. With both teams having games the previous night, fatigue will play a factor as they battle it out in a back-to-back clash. The Kestrels are eyeing a massive weekend, while the Capitals aim to showcase their season’s strength. It’s a true test of skill and determination, and hockey fans won’t want to miss the intense action on the ice.
Get ready for a rescheduled derby game between the Dundee Comets and Dundee Tigers, originally set for October. With a doubleheader for both teams, the outcome could significantly impact the standings. Expect a competitive match which carries importance beyond local rivalry, in a crucial weekend.
Hockey fans, buckle up for what is sure to be a rollercoaster of a weekend. Stay tuned for every thrilling moment!
Weekend Fixtures
| Date | Game | Time/Results | League |
|---|---|---|---|
  Kilmarnock Thunder vs North Ayrshire Wild | 9 - 4 | Scottish National League | |
  Edinburgh Capitals vs Dundee Tigers | 4 - 3 | Scottish National League | |
  Aberdeen Lynx vs Paisley Pirates | 4 - 2 | Scottish National League | |
  Dundee Comets vs Kirkcaldy Kestrels | 2 - 3 | Scottish National League | |
| Comets vs Tigers | 3 - 1 | Scottish National League | |
| Kirkcaldy Kestrels vs Edinburgh Capitals | 2 - 5 | Scottish National League |
