Paisley Pirates Solway Invitation Tournament

Paisley Pirates returned from a weekend at the Solway Invitation Tournament without a win, but Head Coach Ian Turley pronounced himself “satisfied” with the outcome of the event, won by the hosts Solway Sharks.

“We knew we were unlikely to finish above sides playing in a higher standard of competition, or who had already played a couple of games, as we hadn’t had that opportunity, while we’ve been training in another rink due to the unavailability of our home ice, and I think that showed in the flow of the games we played in,” he said. “I know that will sound like excuses to some folk, but we weren’t kidding ourselves that we were going to go in against some of these sides  and turn them over after only a couple of weeks’ practice. However, if you want to improve, you have to take the opportunity to test yourself against good opposition so that was very much mission accomplished in that respect.”

Pirates secured a 4-4 draw in their opening match against fellow SNL side Kirkcaldy Kestrels before going down to SNL champions Dundee Stars and NIHL sides Sheffield Senators and Solway Sharks, but Turley is not regretting the venture at all. Waiting on the game coming on? Why not try one of the online slot games.

“We’ve signed a few new guys since the end of last season, so it gave Coach Adam Walker and myself the chance to try out a few things on the ice, and we experimented a little with the lines, so it was all useful to us, as at this time of year actual ice time is absolutely critical for us, and usually in short supply. We’re very grateful to the organisers for inviting us along, and I don’t think we let anyone down, ourselves included. It did highlight, though, that we’ve still got a few unfilled places on our bench, which we’re looking to put a player into.”

“The rules have changed recently in that players don’t necessarily have to be British trained to play in our league, so there’s a real opportunity for players to come to one of the top amateur clubs in Scotland and continue their career, or study while they’re here Whether they’re home grown, or over here possibly om a temporary basis, we’d be delighted to hear from them, all they have to do is email us at paisleypirates.org and we’ll get in touch with them.”