News

A Northern double-header of cross-league matches saw the London Racers visit the Edinburgh Capitals on Tuesday and the Newcastle Vipers on Wednesday this week.   Tuesday's trip saw the Racers pip their hosts in overtime, with ex-Manchester Phoenix defenceman Mark Thomas netting the winner.  Goals from Dennis Maxwell and Jim Vickers had been matched by strikes from Marty Johnson and Martin Cingel to take the game into overtime, but Thomas's game breaker saw the Racers taking the win three goals to two.

Wednesday's visit to Newcastle saw the Racers open the scoring at the end of the first period through Jason Robinson, only for the home team to draw level through ex-Manchester Storm player Paul Ferone.  A short-hander from London through ex-Phoenixer Mark Thomas was met by a game leveller from veteran player Hilton Ruggles, and the score remained the same right through overtime, the game ending 2-2.

London Racers have announced the return of NHLer Scott Nichol, who served with the Racers for six games earlier this season.  The former Chicago Blackhawks star has come back to the Racers following a return home for a family emergency, and he is expected to ice for the Racers in their fixture against Belfast Giants on February 6th.  Elsewhere, the Nottingham Panthers have swooped to sign two members of the NHL Boston Bruins squad, picking up Ian Moran and Nick Boynton. 

Nottingham Coach Paul Adey is pleased with his new signings : "We have added two quality guys who have played at the highest level and have earned nothing but praise for their achievements and efforts at that level. The reputation of both players is phenominal, the fans are in for a treat.  These players will add to the team both on and off the ice."

Moran is expected to ice for the Panthers in tonight's game against Dundee, and Boynton is due to arrive in time for this weekend's matches against Bracknell and Basingstoke.

by Richard Allan