Flyers go into tie with new faces

Fife Flyers host a Canadian touring team tonight boosted by confirmation they have secured their netminding team and three members of the Great Britain under-18 squad.

British duo Andrew Little and Craig Douglas will share back-up duties to starting netminder Shane Owen, who returns to the club following a season split between Europe and North America.

Little returns to the Flyers team having gained valuable experience training with the side last season.

And the 20-year-old was called into the team on a number of occasions towards the end of the season as back-up cover.

Douglas spent two seasons with the team when the 28-year-old was back-up to Owen.

Jeff Hutchins, Fife’s assistant coach, said: “Both Craig and Andrew have been with us off and on for the last couple years.

“We value both of their commitments to the club and, although they have full-time jobs away from the rink, both are keen to be a part of the organisation.”

Meanwhile, Fife have also signed Team Great Britain under-18 gold medallists Reece Cochrane, 17, Jordan Buesa, 18, and 17-year-old Caly Robertson.

Head coach Todd Dutiaume said: “Reece has the opportunity of an excellent career in front of him.

“This season we hope to help him push forward in his development.

“In meetings we have discussed the importance of a stable off-ice programme along with helping him mature into the player he will become. This is a big year for Reece.

“Caly joins us after a season in Edinburgh and knows he has to continue to work hard on his off-ice conditioning. We are keen to aid him in his goal to become a full-time player in the league.”

Buesa has spent the previous two seasons with Braehead Clan where he played in 64 games.

Dutiaume said: “We were impressed with his work ethic and he skates well. He is strong, talented and driven to play in this league.”

Fife tonight entertain the Manitoba Bisons who lost 4-3 at Manchester Storm on Tuesday.