Picture by Al Goold
Saturday’s Games
Kilmarnock Thunder vs. Paisley Pirates
Final Score: Thunder 3 – 7 Pirates
The Paisley Pirates made a strong start to their season with a 7-3 win against Kilmarnock Thunder, moving them to 2nd place in the league table. It was a high energy start with Paisley scoring within the first minute. The opening period was evenly matched, ending in a 2-2 tie and setting the stage for a competitive match.
Thunder’s top scorer so far this season Finlay Anderson, put the home side ahead 3-2 in the second period, giving them a boost going into the final frame. However, the Pirates found their rhythm in the third period, creating more scoring opportunities. Thunder’s netminder Harry Campbell faced increased pressure but despite his efforts, the Pirates managed to score five more goals. Marcus Murdoch was a standout for the Pirates, completing a hat-trick with the final goal of the night.
After the game, Paisley Pirates‘ coach Ian Turley, shared his thoughts on the victory:
“It was great to get a win for our first league game of the season. It’s always important to get off to a good start. Kilmarnock didn’t make it easy for us which was pretty evident in the first two periods. That aside, I’m happy with how we executed our systems and that the changes implemented going into the 3rd 3-2 down had the desired impact to come away with the win. I’m really proud of my players in how they have approached the season so far, considering we still do not have any ice in Braehead and have been scrambling for ice elsewhere as and when.”
This statement highlights the challenges the Pirates have faced with their home rink and underscores the significance of their comeback victory. The win demonstrated the Pirates‘ ability to adapt and finish strong, while Thunder will look to maintain their early-game intensity in future matches.
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North Ayrshire Wild vs. Aberdeen Lynx
Final Score: Wild 1 – 3 Lynx
Aberdeen Lynx continued their strong start to the season with a hard-fought 3-1 victory on the road against North Ayrshire Wild. The first period was a tense, defensive affair with both teams creating chances but unable to break through. Lynx showed more offensive intent, outshooting Wild, but couldn’t find the back of the net.
The deadlock was finally broken five minutes into the second period when the Lynx took advantage of a power play opportunity. Ross McIntosh found the back of the net, putting the visitors ahead. Despite growing pressure from the Lynx, Wild’s goaltender Liam Griffin held strong for the rest of the period, making several crucial saves to keep his team within reach.
Early in the third period, Wild’s top scorer of the season, Dylan Murray scored an equaliser to the delight of their home crowd, breathing new life into the contest. However, Lynx’s resilience emerged as they regained control. Captain Ben Edmonds restored the lead on the power play, demonstrating Aberdeen’s ability to perform under pressure. The final blow came less than a minute later when new signing Josef Babiča scored, extending the lead to 3-1 and effectively sealing the win for Lynx.
This victory keeps Aberdeen at the top of the league table with 4 points, as they defend their title.
Sunday’s Game
Kirkcaldy Kestrels vs. Edinburgh Capitals
Final Score: Kestrels 3 – 4 Capitals
Edinburgh Capitals kicked off their season in thrilling fashion, edging out Kirkcaldy Kestrels in a nail-biting 4-3 away victory. The Capitals wasted no time asserting themselves, with captain Joel Gautschi – last season’s third-highest goal scorer in the SNL – finding the net early to give the visitors the lead. Kestrels, however, showed their resilience and effectiveness on the power play, with George Pitcaithly capitalising on a man advantage to level the score before the first break.
The second period was a goal-fest that had fans on the edge of their seats. Both teams traded blows in an offensive showcase, with the period ending in a 3-3 stalemate. The back-and-forth nature of the game highlighted the evenly matched skills of both sides and set up a tense final period.
In the third, Edinburgh continued their offensive pressure, peppering shots at Kestrels‘ netminder Andrew Little. Little performed well, making save after save to keep his team in the game. However, the Capitals’ persistence finally paid off when James Isaacs broke through with what would prove to be the game-winning goal. Despite the push from the Kestrels, Edinburgh’s defense held firm to secure their first win of the season.
This victory puts the Capitals in a strong early-season position, demonstrating their ability to win tough road games against quality opposition.
