Cup action

Whitley Warriors take a break from English National League action this weekend as they make the short journey down the A19 to play Billingham Stars in the North Cup tonight (face-off 6.30pm), but even though Solway Sharks have already been confirmed as winners of the competition, coach Garry Dowd will still travel looking for a win and a good performance from his side.

“There is something at stake every time you step on the ice,” said Dowd, “we have been in good form of late and this is another opportunity for us to continue that, even if it is against the side top of the English National League.

“It doesn’t matter that neither side can win the competition, it’s a derby match and that should be motivation enough for both teams,” the Warriors coach added.

“However, I will be using the game to give ice time to some people that haven’t played in a while through injury and may rest one or two that have little niggles.”

Now that the Warriors squad is returning to something like full strength, Dowd will have some tough decisions to make over who plays.

“Bryan Dunn returned to the squad last Sunday, but didn’t get on; so he will play,” confirmed the coach, “while Jordan Barnes and Phil Pritchard have now both recovered from their injuries and they too will see some action.

“It’s a great opportunity for me to see how well they have recovered and how they are going to fit into the side; and with everyone available it means we have good competition for places and that will make practice sessions more competitive.”

The Stars have slipped up of late after storming their way to the top of the league table prior to Christmas and Dowd wants to see the Warriors further erode their confidence tonight.

“We lost our first game at Billingham and then drew the next, so I am looking to complete the set and get a win this time,” he said.