Braehead Clan skipper Matt Keith insists the team are more concerned with hitting form going into the Elite League play-offs rather than their record against Fife Flyers.

Clan head to Kirkcaldy looking to complete a clean sweep of league wins over their rivals.

However, Keith is more focused on helping his team into the post-season by going on a timely run in the final few games of the season.

“Fife are a big rival for us and the game itself is big of course, but I don’t think anyone is going in thinking about how well we’ve done over them all season,” he said.

“You look at Fife against everyone else and have done very well, which is why they’re right behind us in the standings.

“I don’t think it goes into our record against them or wanting to get a clean sweep over them. It’s more about wanting to play the right way ahead of the play-offs.”

Clan will be without Mike Hammond for the weekend’s games after picking up a lower body injury during last Saturday’s 3-2 loss to Sheffield Steelers.

Keith admits not having him available to play is a blow, but believes the timing is right for one of his teammates to step up.

“It’s always big to lose a guy like ‘Hammy’ and I’m sure all the other guys would say the same thing about how he’s come in, gone about his business and did some amazing things for us,” added Keith.

“He’s produced a lot and has been very consistent, so from that point of view, it leaves a huge hole for us to fill in the coming games.

“However, I think we have a lot of depth and there are guys that can and have stepped up in the past whenever we’ve had injuries.

“Something like this can create opportunities for others and it can surprise a lot of people so I think we’re in a situation where others need to come in and I think that’s a good thing.”

(Image permission: Al Goold Photo)