The final three league games of the 2024-25 Scottish National League season took place this weekend, marking the end of the regular season as attention now shifts to the Playoff group stages.

Dundee Rockets Dominate Kilmarnock Thunder

Saturday saw Kilmarnock Thunder play their final game of the season, having failed to progress to the Playoff groups. It has been a tough campaign for Thunder, and their last outing was no easier as they faced off against league winners Dundee Rockets.

The Rockets wasted no time asserting their dominance, with league top scorer John Dolan finding the net just 1:30 into the game. They added four more goals before Thunder’s 16-year-old Keir McPherson scored his first-ever SNL goal, offering a bright moment for the visitors. However, Rockets responded almost immediately with another goal just before the end of the first period.

The second period saw Rockets extend their lead with four more goals before Thunder managed to score their second of the night. Rockets then answered with another two, further cementing their control of the game.

Going into the third period with a 12-2 lead, Rockets added four more goals, including John Dolan’s third of the night, completing his hat-trick. It was a difficult game for Thunder’s defense, but they will have the summer to rebuild and prepare for next season.

Edinburgh Capitals Edge Aberdeen Lynx in Tight Contest

A highly anticipated clash in Murrayfield saw second-placed Edinburgh Capitals take on third-placed Aberdeen Lynx. With both teams closely matched in the standings, a competitive game was expected, and it delivered.

Capitals captain Joel Gautschi opened the scoring, capitalising on a power play opportunity. Despite creating several chances, Lynx couldn’t find the net in the opening period.

The second period saw Lynx find their rhythm, with Callum Hill scoring the equaliser for the visitors. However, Capitals responded swiftly as Dean Walker restored their lead. Lynx then struck back with two quick goals, edging ahead 3-2 by the end of the period.

With everything to play for in the final period, Lynx extended their lead through a power play goal from Jack Flynn, his second of the night. However, Capitals answered back with two quick goals to level the game at 4-4 with less than seven minutes remaining. With just two minutes left on the clock, Capitals once again took advantage of a power play, with Joel Gautschi completing his hat-trick and securing a narrow 5-4 win for Edinburgh.

Pirates Claim Victory Over Kestrels in Sunday Showdown

Sunday’s game saw a fierce rivalry unfold as Kirkcaldy Kestrels (3rd) and Paisley Pirates (4th) clashed.

Kestrels struck first, with Finley King opening the scoring. However, Pirates responded with two goals of their own from Magnus Wrottesley and Marcus Murdoch.

In the second period, Kestrels equalised through Cole Giannandrea on a power play, setting up a tense final period.

The third period saw Gary Parker put Pirates back in front before a last-minute goal from Fraser Kerr sealed a 4-2 victory for the Pirates.

Playoff Group Stages Await

With the regular season now concluded, focus turns to the Playoff group stages. The top teams from each group will battle it out for a place in the Playoff Finals Weekend, set to take place on April 19th and 20th. The competition is set to heat up as the best in the league fight for the ultimate prize.