Article Source: Paisley Pirates
Last Updated: 6 October 2014 10:06
The waiting is almost over for Paisley Pirates fans waiting to see their beloved favourites on home ice once again. It’s been more than 6 months since many followers last saw their team on the Braehead Arena ice in March of this year, but that wait comes to an end this weekend, their first appearance on a Saturday at the Arena for many years, when they go head to head with the Belfast Giants in their first home Scottish National League fixture, the match facing off at the slightly earlier than usual time of 5.30pm.
Pirates have got off to a good start this year, having already played 3 matches on the road, recording two big wins against Ayrshire opponents, brewing up a Storm against Kilmarnock in winning 9-0, while making North Ayrshire go Wild as they recorded an impressive 7-2 against the hosts to qualify for the semi finals of the Autumn Cup against the Solway Sharks. They didn’t enjoy the best of fortunes against the Kirkcaldy Kestrels, however, going down by the odd goal in seven against their high flying opponents, whose superior fitness proved to be vital at the end of the Pirates’ first Scottish National League fixture in Fife, at a venue where it has been traditionally difficult to record an away win.
However, there is an air of confidence in the camp which has been generated by the team performances so far, and they go into their first home match against the Giants bolstered by the fact that unlike last season, they have had the chance to practice and play, if not with the frequency which they would have liked, then at least in the knowledge that their level of fitness is improving with every passing week, while their performances on the ice give much encouragement to suggest that a better league position than the final 5th place is well within their reach in a league which becomes more competitive, and of a higher standard, with every passing season.
Coach Ian Turley will ensure, however, that there is no over confidence in the ranks which could contribute to an upset, with Pirates starting favourites to record a home win over their Irish visitors. There have been a few changes in personnel over the summer which will see a few new faces take to the ice on Saturday, while several players from last year’s squad have moved on.
Admission prices have been held for the 5th consecutive season, with the maximum entry price being £7 for adults, with the usual full range of discounts for families, senior citizens, students, and the like on offer, ensuring that once again supporters will be guaranteed excellent value for money.
Ellie Leach, reigning champion of Strictly Come Dancing, will make her stage acting debut as Miss Scarlett in the world premiere UK tour of Cluedo 2!
READ MOREThe exclusive 4-year deal will see fan-favourites like Pravha, Madri Excepcional and more on tap at Scotland's home of live entertainment.
READ MOREPaisley Food and Drink Festival returns to the town this weekend for a two-day feastival with plenty for everyone to sample and enjoy.
READ MOREWith a staggering 14 million adults in the UK unable to swim, the team behind The Learn to Swim National Framework has launched a new campaign to encourage adults in Scotland to learn the life skill.
READ MOREGlasgow Cocktail Week has officially kicked off with a first look at the event's new boujee bar Courtyard Bar and event space in the stunning surroundings of Princes Square.
READ MORE34.2 million Brits admit to ditching work and responsibilities for sporting events.
READ MOREBritish fashion label AllSaints has joined the line-up at leading retail and leisure destination Silverburn, representing a fashion coup for the centre.
READ MOREGlasgow's most popular brunch series, VEGA's Brunch Project, will bring all of the 90s nostalgia and Ibiza island vibes to the city centre this spring for sky-high boujee brunches like no other.
READ MOREVisitors are invited to celebrate National Tea Day with a complimentary gift of tea and biscuits from the popular tea store, Whittard of Chelsea at Buchanan Galleries.
READ MORENow in its 30th year, the show is the go-to exhibition for any self-builders or renovators looking for practical tips, expert advice, or the chance to view 1000s of products.
READ MOREButeFest, the much-loved family-friendly music festival on the Isle of Bute, has confirmed the lineup for this year's edition, set to take place between Friday 26th - Sunday 28th July.
READ MOREAye Write has confirmed stand-alone events and a smaller-scale version of Wee Write in 2024, instead of the full festival going ahead.
READ MOREGlasgow Cocktail Week has unveiled a series of cocktail trails mapping out the very best discounted drinks across the city including its first ever 'No and Low' trail.
READ MOREScotland's home of country, Maggie's Rock 'n' Rodeo, is inviting folk to grab the mic at its new Sunday afternoon event – The Hoedown Hoe-K-Oke, launching Sunday 5th May!
READ MORELatest investigations by National Trust for Scotland archaeologists at Culloden Battlefield have recovered a wide range of artefacts.
READ MOREBroadway and West End phenomenon Kinky Boots The Musical, is strutting back to Glasgow in a brand-new production starring Strictly's Johannes Radebe and rising star Dan Partridge!
READ MOREThe People's Palace, Glasgow will close its doors for the final time on Sunday 14th April, ahead of a major refurbishment.
READ MOREDon't miss out on the Baby & Toddler Show when it returns to Glasgow at the SEC, Glasgow on 19th - 21st April!
READ MOREThe Theatre Royal, Glasgow is one the latest venues set to see the National Theatre's global smash-hit production of War Horse visit as part of a major 18-month UK and Ireland tour.
READ MOREWith a new season brings new flavours and Glasgow Restaurant Week is set to shine a spotlight on the very best dishes and delights the city has to offer, when it kicks off tomorrow!
READ MOREFollowing its purchase by M Core in February, Buchanan Street’s iconic Princes Square has announced a trio of new tenants who will be opening stores in the centre.
READ MORECalling all golfers! Topgolf Glasgow is hosting 'The Final Round – Live' on Sunday 14th April, it's an unmissable event to celebrate golf's most prestigious tournament!
READ MOREA project set up to ensure culture and heritage are at the heart of the regeneration of Glasgow's Sauchiehall Street has secured a significant grant to help achieve its vision.
READ MOREEnergy efficiency will take centre stage at this year’s Scottish Homebuilding & Renovating Show, sponsored by Fleming Homes, when it returns to the SEC, Glasgow on 11-12 May 2024.
READ MOREThe Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) Scottish Game Fair (SGF) is back for 2024, celebrating its 35-year anniversary at Scone Palace.
READ MOREGlasgow International Comedy Festival has revealed 2024's edition was a record-breaking year, with the highest number of shows in the festival's history!
READ MOREGlasgow East End-based and artist-led charity Strange Field announces its first programme of major exhibitions and events.
READ MOREDobbies, the UK's leading garden centre, is inviting plant enthusiasts and foodies alike to a brand new Afternoon Tea and Planting Experience at its stores nationwide.
READ MOREA critically acclaimed show loved by theatre lovers around the world has announced it will be partnering with a leading Scottish charity to raise vital funds for LGBTQ+ young people.
READ MOREThis year's Springfest, set to take place this weekend, has been postponed due to forecasted high winds.
READ MOREGo Radio | Number 1 for Glasgow & The West - Listen on DAB, Online or on your Smart Speaker, just say "Launch Go Radio"