Paisley Pirates get their Scottish National League (SNL) season underway on Sunday when they host Kilmarnock Storm.

Pirates missed out on last year’s league title to Kirkcaldy Kestrels, but ended the campaign with silverware after claiming the Scottish Cup.

Head Coach Ian Turley said: “Our visitors had a tough time of it last year, but they’ve added a couple of former Pirates to their ranks now, so that will add more of an edge to the match.

“They’ll be out to prove a point against their former teammates, and we certainly don’t want to lose our opening match at home, particularly when it’s a local derby.”

“In addition to having most of the usual faces from last season, we’ve signed a number of hungry young players who’ve shown me they’re ready and willing to display the kind of ability, enthusiasm and attitude I’m looking for every single game.

“I think we’ll continue to entertain the fans in the style they’ve become accustomed to seeing in recent seasons, so I’m hoping we’ll get a good turn out from our supporters on Sunday.”

Aberdeen Lynx kick their season off on Saturday at home to Dundee Comets.

Lynx lost twice to the Comets last term, but gained their revenge with a 2-1 victory in the SNL play-off final.

New signing Adam McNicoll began his career in Dundee and says he’s looking forward to playing in Scotland after moving from NIHL1 South outfit Invicta Dynamos.

“It wasn’t an easy decision to move back home after having a good few years in Gillingham,” McNicoll told the Aberdeen Evening Express.

“But I wanted to enjoy my hockey and the coach (Barry Carnegie) made it very clear Aberdeen was the place for me.

“I’m very excited for the season opener and have very high hopes for the coming season.

“I guess you can say it’s a bit more fun playing against friends, but we will see how friendly they are on Saturday at the game.”

WEEKEND FIXTURES

Saturday

Aberdeen Lynx v Dundee Comets

Sunday

North Ayrshire Wild v Edinburgh Capitals SNL
Paisley Pirates v Kilmarnock Storm