It’s victory at the double for Pirates
Paisley Pirates kicked their season into gear with two victories on their opening weekend.
Pirates travelled to North Ayrshire Wild on Saturday for their first outing, with Adam Walker taking his place alongside Ian Turley on the coaching benches for the first time since his arrival this summer.
And the Paisley side produced as they tamed the Wild 7-0 to get the year off to a flyer.
They returned to home ice on Sunday evening, taking to Braehead Arena as they welcomed Kilmarnock Storm to Renfrewshire.
But they were in no mood to be hospitable hosts as they sent Storm packing following a 7-1 victory – ensuring maximum points from the two clashes.
Coach Walker insisted he was delighted with the manner of the victories, with Pirates looking to build upon a successful new season.
Walker told Express Sport:“It was really pleasing to get off to a good start last weekend.
“We expected a test in both games, however, the team responded well to the challenge and grew in confidence as the weekend went on.
“Obviously there is a long way to go and I think we had one or two tired bodies on Sunday in the latter stages, but that is to be expected with us not being game sharp. “Fitness will improve as we work our way through the games. We haven’t had the opportunity to play any pre season games and starting late means we will be a little behind for the first three or four matches.”
Pirates have started their season later than everyone else in the SNL, with their weekend opponents up to match speed.
And Walker reckons that once his side sharpen up, they have every opportunity to challenge at the top end of the table once again.
He added:“Both North Ayrshire Wild and Kilmarnock Storm were playing their seventh game against us, but I thought we coped well and were comfortable for long spells in each.
“Every line had scoring at the weekend, which will enable us to rely on everybody to make an offensive contribution.
“Everyone has a role on the team and we expect our top offensive players to contribute regularly, however, that secondary scoring is also vital if we are to be successful.”