September 30, 2022

Milton Keynes Lightning player-coach Tim Wallace says his squad are ready for the challenge of an improving Hull Seahawks side on Saturday, as MKL look to improve on their unbeaten start to Planet Ice NIHL National.

The Lightning edged both games last weekend – 2-1 at home to Bees, 3-2 at Bristol – move to 4&0 and share top spot with Leeds Knights who sport the same record.

“We had to play right to the end to get the wins,” Wallace said.

“I think we had a lot of chances over the two games, played very well and did just enough to get over the line.”

Talking of the competition, season three of the National Division looks set to be as competitive as ever, even with the addition of new teams in Bristol and Hull.

“The new clubs are finding their feet, Hull have improved in a short time and pushed Telford last weekend. We needed a last minute goal in Bristol, everyone can beat everyone in this league.

“We’ll be ready for Hull and won’t underestimate them, they have had some tough luck with imports and injuries but we will keep playing our game to get the result.”

Hull visit Planet Ice MK on Saturday (7pm) as one of five fixtures that night.

Leeds Knights, the other unbeaten team in the division, welcome Bees to Elland Road (6.30pm), while last week’s coupon busters Basingstoke Bison host Telford Tigers (6.30pm).

Swindon Wildcats have live music as part of their matchnight at home to Raiders (6.30pm) and Bristol Pitbulls have a home date with Peterborough Phantoms (7pm).

Sunday’s schedule starts with Sheffield Steeldogs‘ only game of the weekend as Bristol make the trip north (4.30pm), Bees and Leeds face off at 5pm, and Raiders welcome Swindon to Sapphire Ice for their 5.15pm puck drop. Hull return to home ice on Sunday against Basingstoke (5.30pm) and Peterborough take on Telford in the final game of the weekend (5.30pm).

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Photo: Wallace celebrates scoring on Saturday – pic Tony Sargent/MKL

Fixture graphic: David Strover