Pirates Power Past Kestrels in 6–1 Victory at Braehead

The Paisley Pirates made it two wins from two this season with a dominant 6–1 victory over the Kirkcaldy Kestrels, in front of a buzzing and vocal home crowd at Braehead Arena.

From the very first face-off, the Pirates looked hungry, pressing hard and forcing the Kestrels onto the back foot. That intensity quickly paid dividends on the scoreboard and set the tone for a night filled with goals, grit, and a show of true team spirit.

It was a night to remember for Jamie Crawford, who lit the lamp three times to secure a hat-trick and earn Man of the Match honours. A brilliant all-round performance capped off by three clinical finishes — Jamie once again proved himself a difference-maker in Pirates colours and had the fans on their feet every time he hit the ice.

There were milestone moments too. Jamie Whitelaw netted his first ever goal for the Pirates, sparking loud cheers from the stands and cementing what looks to be the start of a bright future with the club.

The scoring was rounded out by Marcus Murdoch and Ryan Parkin, each finding the back of the net to keep the momentum firmly in Paisley’s favour. But it was the sixth and final goal, scored in the last ten seconds of the game, that brought the biggest roar of the night — a perfect exclamation mark on a statement performance.

Head Coach Ian Turley praised the effort across the bench, pointing to the way every line contributed to the result. With energy, structure, and relentless forechecking, the Pirates kept the Kestrels chasing shadows and never allowed them to find any rhythm.

“It was a complete performance from the team. The lads worked for each other, stayed disciplined, and were relentless in every shift. To see players like Whitelaw getting his first goal and Crawford grabbing a hat-trick shows the balance we’ve got in the squad this year. It’s a really positive sign as the season gets underway.”

The victory means the Pirates sit with back-to-back wins to start the campaign, confidence growing, and momentum clearly building.

Next up: The Pirates are back at home ice as they face the Aberdeen Lynx on Saturday, with a 1pm face-off. Doors open from 12.15pm, so make sure you’re there early to grab your seat and get behind the boys as they look to keep the winning run alive.

Two wins on the bounce, goals flying in, and a team brimming with confidence — the signs are promising in Paisley.