WEEKEND RECAP — PIRATES SAIL HOME WITH FOUR POINTS

Saturday: Paisley Pirates 2 – 5 North Ayrshire Wild

The Pirates' weekend travel began on Friday with a trip to Saltcoats for a clash against North Ayrshire Wild; a club always known for their toughness and physical style.

The home side wasted no time in opening their account, scoring before the first period was over and piling the pressure on the Pirates. The visitors were not behind for long though. When they got into gear, Paisley dominated the game with puck movement and capitalized on their chances.

Five open goals were conceded as the Pirates took charge, with Jamie Whitelaw, Fraser Kerr, Michael Dobson, Marcus Murdoch and Craig Peacock getting their names on the scoreboard. Wild was able to score a late goal from a penalty shot, but the Pirates' discipline and defence prevented a late surge.

Craig Peacock was Man of the Match following marshalling the troops and scoring a key short-handed goal on a 5-on-3 penalty kill; something that summed up his work ethic and ice cool for Saturday.

It was an end-to-end professional performance all game long and the perfect way to kick off the weekend.

Sunday: Solway Sharks 0 – 6 Paisley Pirates

There was not much time to catch their breath as the Pirates travelled again the next day, this time south to Dumfries to face the Solway Sharks. Even with the short break, there was no sign of tiredness in the squad. If anything, they seemed more focused than ever.

From the face-off to begin, the Pirates took control of play and never gave up. Their offense was depth-plentiful as five different players had their names on the scoresheet: Gary Parker, Ryan Campbell, Marty Simpson (two), Fraser Kerr and Bradley Annan. All lines were clicking and everyone contributed to what was certainly the most balanced team effort of the season so far.

On the opposite end of the ice, Daniel McGowan stood tall in front of the pipes, deflecting all Solway attempts to register a deserved shutout and claim Man of the Match accolades. His calm demeanour and assured saves kept the Sharks at bay throughout the game.

By the time the final buzzer had sounded in Dumfries, the Pirates had earned four points, 11 goals, and two huge wins. An achievement not only for team spirits but for highlighting the strength and unity of the team.

Pirates Head Coach Ian Turley praised his side's performance at the weekend, commenting:

"Two away games in two days is never going to be easy, but the lads were magnificent. They played for each other, stuck to the plan, and showed a great deal of character. It's the kind of weekend that builds confidence and momentum."

The Pirates now anticipate their Braehead Arena homecoming next Sunday, 26th October, when they will welcome the Aberdeen Lynx. With momentum decidedly in their corner, the team will be eager to continue their winning way before their own home fans.