It’s been a sombre week for Ice Hockey with the tragic passing of Nottingham Panthers #47 Adam Johnson. As teams return to the ice for this weekend’s SNL action, the thoughts of the entire hockey community are with all of those who have been affected by this devastating loss. At all SNL games this weekend, teams will pay tribute with all players and officials in a circle at centre ice for one minutes silence. Fans attending games are also invited to stand and applaud for one minute at 47 minutes whilst the games are in play. Junior and Recreational teams will also be able to pay tribute with a one minute silence at the start of their games. The Ice Hockey community is strong and we stand together and pay tribute to Adam Johnson #47.

SATURDAY:

Dundee Tigers vs. North Ayr Wild: In a double-point game that could make a significant difference to both teams, the North Ayr Wild, currently in 8th place with 2 points, face off against the Dundee Tigers, who sit in 7th place with 4 points. The four points up for grabs could propel either team up the league table, so the stakes are high. It’s their first meeting this season, so each team will be keen to assert their dominance on the ice.

Edinburgh Capitals vs. Dundee Comets: Both the Edinburgh Capitals and Dundee Comets are currently sitting on 6 points. Although they haven’t crossed paths this season, in the past, they’ve been strong contenders at the top of the league. The Capitals have only played 4 games this season, winning 3 out of 4, while the Comets have played 6 matches, with a 50% win rate. With both teams always bring their A-game, this matchup is not to be missed as the atmosphere at Murrayfield is sure to be electric.

Aberdeen Lynx vs. Kilmarnock Thunder: There are only a few tickets left for this highly anticipated game in Aberdeen. Kilmarnock Thunder currently stands 2nd in the league table, while the Lynx are in 3rd place. Both teams have accumulated 8 points from 6 games, and each winning 4 out of their 6 games, making this an incredibly tight race. Their first meeting of the season in Kilmarnock saw Thunder narrowly edging out the Lynx with a 10-9 victory on home ice. The rematch promises to be intense in the packed out Linx arena.

Sunday:

Kirkcaldy Kestrels vs. Paisley Pirates: The league leaders, Kirkcaldy Kestrels, will play host to the Paisley Pirates on home ice at the Fife Arena. The Kestrels currently lead the league with 10 points, holding a 3-point advantage over the Pirates. With the Aberdeen Lynx and Kilmarnock Thunder hot on the Kestrels’ heels, a win would provide some breathing space, but a Pirates victory could propel them up the league table. This is the first meeting of the season between these two competitive teams, and fans can expect a physical game.

As the Scottish ice hockey community unites in remembrance and solidarity, these weekend games promise both intense competition and a fitting tribute to Adam Johnston. May the spirit of the sport shine brightly, even in these difficult times.