http:// Capitals UK Ice Hockey News en-us All data contained herein is Copyright (C) 2006 webmaster@edinburgh-capitals.com 300 webmaster@edinburgh-capitals.com http://www.edinburgh-capitals/_assets/logos/capitals.gif http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=288 Mon, 26 Mar 07 12:00:00 CEST The Capitals second Elite League season has proved to be a difficult one for the club and whilst the team have been very competitive and very close to having a side that could have made a serious impact on the League it is obvious that we have a lot of work to do to compete consistently with the other clubs. Although we doubled the amount of wins from the first Elite League season it has not been enough for the team to make the playoffs and provide a significant increase in average attendance.In an attempt to compete with bigger budget clubs the Capitals have traditionally tried to recruit a mixture of experienced professionals from established Leagues with a number of speculative lower budget players trying to establish themselves at a higher level. The dangers of this policy became all to evident this year when we lost a number of good recruits to higher spending clubs and it is important that the team is in as good a financial position as possible for the 200708 recruitment drive to help alleviate this potential hazard. This is where your support can help the most, as all season ticket money will be targeted to recruit the best possible squad for the 200708 season.The Capitals will also be looking for a League schedule that reduces the travelling burden on the team, as this is an area that the Capitals suffer a significant playing disadvantage. The Capitals have to look for a schedule that best serves the club from a playing and financial perspective and I am progressing with a number of ideas that will help the club going forward in this area.We have decided to continue offering an early bird deal across all season ticket types giving you even better value with reduced prices until 31st May 2007. We look forward to seeing you and hearing you cheer us on in the 200708 season. For our third season in the Elite Ice Hockey League we have lined up a package that offers exceptional value for moneyNo need to queue before each game and your favourite seat guaranteed every gameFree games and a Discount on all games not covered by Season Ticket and SPHL games VIP hospitality for a designated game during the season, buffet and a chance to meet the team after the gameMonthly draw with the winning season ticket holder getting a signed stick presented by their favourite player End of season draw with the winning season ticket holder getting a game worn shirt20% discount on Capitals Awards Dinner Dance 200708Transferable Season ticketCapitals Season ticket holders 'marketing campaign'As part of the season ticket package the Capitals will be asking the core support to help market the game to new fans. The Season ticket holder will be given 2 free tickets and up to 10 (50% off discounted tickets) for two selected games next season. It is important that the offer is targeted towards 'new fans' and I hope this initiative will help Season Ticket holders get more involved with the promotion of the club.The 0708 Season Ticket is now available for download.The from can now be completed electronically an can either be printer or emailed from within the formhttpwww.edinburghcapitals.comuploads0708stappl.pdf http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=287 Sun, 25 Mar 07 21:00:00 CEST Capitals efforts at avoiding their second successive wooden spoon finally came unstuck as Panthers grabbed both points, sealing the victory with two late strikes.It's the golf course now for Capitals but for Panthers it's that mouth watering quarter final PlayOff against Sheffield to look forward to.A tight opening period saw only one goal scored and that came the way of the visitors at 6.58 with EIHL top goalscorer Sean McAslan (41st) finding the target.Rod Stevens (20th) on the powerplay made it 20 at 28.22 but only 30 seconds later Capitals were back in the game when Pavel Kowalczyk (12th) netted.It stayed that way throughout the final period with Capitals unable to breach the visitors defence and Panthers wrapped up the win with goals by McAslan (42nd) at 57.39 and an empty net goal by Trevor Gallant (3rd) with 29 seconds remaining.Period Scores 01, 11, 02Penalty Mins 48Shots On Stephen Murphy 27 + 1 ENG Rastislav Rovnianek 14Geoff Woolhouse 24 http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=286 Sat, 24 Mar 07 21:00:00 CET A strong middle period was the foundation for Vipers to boost moral with a win in a high scoring enounter against bottom club Capitals.This was a third straight home win for Vipers but a blow to Capitals hopes of moving off the bottom of the league.A powerplay goal by newly announced GB skipper Jonathan Weaver (21st) at 8.55 opened the scoring but the home side were set back on their heels as Capitals scored twice to turn the game in their favour, Patrik Luza (14th) at 13.33 on the powerplay and then Martin Cingel (22nd) at 16.56 providing the finishes.Unfortunately for Vipers, leading goaltender Peter Aubry was forced out of the game at the time of Capitals opening goal with what looked like a recurrance of a leg injury.Back came the home side however and equality was restored going into the first period break when Cory Morgan (22nd) netted at 19.04.Vipers took control of the game in the midlle stanza, scoring three times without reply. Only 24 seconds in and Morgan (23rd) nabbed his second of the game and he was quickly followed by David Longstaff (24th) at 21.55 and Rod Hinks (21st) at 22.11, giving Vipers 3 goals in 187 seconds to shatter the visitors hopes.All credit to the visitors as they continued to work hard and at 47.51 gained some reward with a powerplay strike by Peter Janik (5th). Paul Ferone (10th) of Vipers then grabbed a shorthanded goal at 50.54 to make it 63 and at the same time Capitals' Cingel was ejected on a game for abuse. The final counter of the night went to Capitals and was Luza's (15th) second of the night at 51.34, again on the powerplay. This goal was also the 1,600 scored in the regular season.Period Scores 22, 30, 12Penalty Mins 1246Shots On Peter Aubry 9Mark Lee 43 Stephen Murphy 31 http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=285 Sat, 24 Mar 07 8:00:00 CET SNL Edinburgh Capitals will be taking on the Fife Flyers on Sunday 1st April at Murrayfield Ice Rink, face off is at 1800This is the first leg of the SNL Play OffsTickets are 6 and 4 and can be bought online here httpedinburghcapitals.comsectionscolumnschaptersdetail.php?id=142 http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=284 Wed, 21 Mar 07 21:05:00 CET Congratulations to Coventry Blaze on becoming the 200607 bmibaby Elite Ice Hockey League champions. http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=283 Wed, 21 Mar 07 21:00:00 CET The champagne corks were popping at the Skydome as for the second time in three seasons Coventry Blaze were crowned bmibaby Elite League champions after taking care of business against league bottom club Edinburgh Capitals.Blaze had of late stuttered a little as they neared the finishing line buttheir nerves held firm as they produced a comfortable display that wasalways too good for Capitals.Some stubborn Capitals defence held firm until Barrie Moore (with his 22ndgoal of the season) grabbed the vital opening goal at 9.06 on thepowerplay. Top scorer Adam Calder (34th) extended the lead at 17.02 with asecond powerplay counter before Capitals gained their only joy of the nightwith Dino Bauba (19th) netting at 18.13.Blaze wrapped up the game and the league title in the middle period, scoringthree times without reply. Dan Carlson (28th) made it 31 at 22.26 and at24.25 it was Neal Martin (7th) on the scoresheet. Tom Watkins (10th) thensaw Blaze go nap when scoring at 32.51 and the game was well beyond thevisitors.Understandably Blaze relaxed somewhat as the third period wore on and thenear capacity crowd began the celebrations. No goals but plenty of cheeringas the bmibaby Elite League crown deservedly returned to the Midlands.Period Scores 21, 30, 00Penalty Mins 1010Shots On Trevor Koenig 24 Stephen Murphy 56 http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=282 Sun, 18 Mar 07 21:00:00 CET Capitals moved level on points with Stingrays at the bottom of the table after this destruction in Edinburgh, both clubs however are confirmed as missing the PlayOff's after tonights results.A 38 shot shutout was the reward for a tough season between the pipes for Stephen Murphy but for Stingrays this was an EIHL leading 11th time they have been blanked this season.The home side assumed control early on in this game and powerplay goals by Kyle Horne (1st) at 3.34 and Andrej Rajcak (14th) at 9.37 left Stingrays in trouble. Horne (2nd) added his second at 15.08 for a Capitals 30 lead after one.When Neil Hay (6th) made it 40 at 22.36 that was enough for Tom Chamberlain in the Stingrays net and he was replaced by Andy Jaszczyk. The home side continued to dominate however and at 36.45 Patrik Luza (13th) added goal number five.Stingrays held out in the final period until they were hit by a quick double by Capitals to complete the scoring, with Iain Bowie (3rd) at 50.26 followed by Dino Bauba (18th) at 51.45 ending a miserable night for the visitors.Period Scores 30, 20, 20Penalty Mins 410Shots On Stephen Murphy 38 Tom Chamberlain 9 Andy Jaszczyk 22 http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=281 Sat, 17 Mar 07 21:00:00 CET Both teams went into this game knowing that only a victory would keep alive any slight PlayOff hopes they had left. Neither team have been setting the ice on fire in recent weeks with Edinburgh losing their last 6 whilst Hull had lost their last 4.In an even first period there were chances at either end but there was only the one goal scored and that came the way of the visitors at 13.21 on the powerplay as Martin Cingel (21st) netted, this was the leagues 1500th goal.The second period was every bit as tight as the first and at 25.17 the Capitals doubled their lead with a shorthanded goal coming from the stick of Andre Rajcek (13th). The hosts battled back and at 30.33 were awarded a penalty shot and Anton Butochnov (12th) made no mistake as he got the Stingrays back into the game.The third period failed to find any more goals, but with only three seconds left on the clock, Jeff Glowa was binned on a 2+10 for slashing then on the buzzer things flared up between Cole Byers and Dino Bauba as both received 5 for fighting. At the same time Jeff Glowa got a game misconduct.Period Scores 01, 11, 00Penalty Mins 4511Shots On Thomas Chamberlain 29 Stephen Murphy 31 http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=280 Thu, 15 Mar 07 21:00:00 CET Following their 61 win last night against the same opposition, Phoenix piled on the misery for the EIHL's bottom club by equalling the highest goal tally in the league this season, ensuring Capitals' long journey home to Scotland would not be a pleasent one!Phoenix's Derek Campbell also equalled a seasons best goalscoring feat, hitting the net 4 times.Capitals, actually shocked the home fans by taking the lead at 5.28 when Mark Lovell (1st of the season) scored on the powerplay but Phoenix were back on terms at 10.38 thanks to Anthony Battaglia (3rd) and then led when Campbell (19th) scored his first of the game at 12.35.Pavel Kowalczyk (11th) levelled again at 17.29 but a home advantage was taken into the first break when top scorer Johan Molin (35th) netted at 19.06.Phoenix added another couple of counters in the second period with Campbell (20th) at 26.14 and Battaglia (4th) at 36.34 finding the net to leave the scoreline at 52 but the floodgates truly opened in the final session.Campbell (21st 22nd) added his third and fourth of the night at 44.48 and on the powerplay at 47.08 before KC Timmons (12th) made it 82 shorthanded at 51.23, quickly followed by another shorthanded strike by Simon Mangos (16th) 21 seconds later.Some brief joy for Capitals at 55.59 when Patrik Luza (12th) scored but he final word went to the home side and a goal by Joe Miller (5th) at 59.05.Period Scores 32, 20, 51Penalty Mins 612Shots On Matthew Compton 24 Stephen Murphy 44 http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=279 Wed, 14 Mar 07 21:00:00 CET Manchester went into this game knowing that a point would secure a PlayOffspot and against an extremely weakened Edinburgh side they came away with a comfortable victory.The hosts more or less secured the win in the first ten minutes of the gameas they went 30 up. K C Timmons (10th) opened the scoring with 5.38 on theclock. They then doubled their lead at 7.16 as Adam Walker (9th) found thenet. Then at 10.10 Anthony Battaglia (2nd) gave the home side a 30 lead.The visitors pulled one back just before the midway point as Pavel Kowalczyk(10th) netted with what was to turn out to be no more than a consolationgoal at 28.31. Phoenix then hit a further two in less than a minute to takea 51 lead. The first came on the powerplay from K C Timmons (11th) with hissecond of the game at 32.27 quickly followed by Simon Mangos (15th) at 33.06.The third period only produced the one goal and it came late in the periodfrom the stick of David Vychodil (16th) at 57.47.With this result there is now only one PlayOff spot up for grabs aswiththout playing Basingstoke have also booked their place in the end ofseason competition.Period Scores 30, 21, 10Penalty Mins 814Shots On Jason Wolfe 23 Stephen Murphy 44 http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=278 Tue, 13 Mar 07 8:00:00 CET Edinburgh Capitals travel to Manchester tomorrow (140307) for a midweek doubleheader with their bmibaby Elite League playoff hopes hanging by a thread.And coach Scott Neil admitted that they have a mountain to climb if they want to stay in the playoff race.The admission followed last weekend's double whammy which included a 72 defeat at Cardiff Devils on Saturday followed by a 101 reverse the club's worst result this season at Nottingham Panthers.Coach Neil must lift morale ahead of the midweek doubleheader at Manchester Phoenix on Wednesday and Thursday and he will have to wait to see if consistent defenceman Patrik Luza and Great Britain netminder Stephen Murphy will be fit.Luza suffered a hand injury in the middle session of last night's defeat at Nottingham and did not take any further part in proceedings while Murphy was hit on the shoulder around the same time. Ryan Ford deputised in the third period.Playmaker Andrej Rajcak should be fit to return to duty after his bout of sickness which meant he missed the trip but Neil will play a waiting game on his other recognised centre, Dino Bauba, who has missed the last three games with a groin injury.Question marks also hover over the availability of Neil Hay and Iain Bowie for the trip to Lancashire while Iain Beattie, who missed this weekend's trip, will not travel in midweek.English winger Phil Manny and former Fife Flyers forward Les Millie, may be available to play Tony Hand's Phoenix who shocked new league pacesetters Coventry Blaze 32 in The Midlands on Saturday.Neil is realistic about the task facing his depleted squad and admitted "We have to catch Newcastle Vipers who occupy the eighth and final playoff place. Saturday's 30 win by Vipers over secondbottom Hull Stingrayscertainly didn't help us."They now have 43 points from 48 games while we have 35 from 47 fixtures so I believe we'll need 12 points from our last seven games if we are to stand any chance of making the playoffs."The Fat Lady has not sung yet but it is pretty close." http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=277 Sun, 11 Mar 07 21:00:00 CET A devastating performance from the Panthers as they clocked up their biggest win this season. They also set several season records the biggest winning margin (9), equalled goals scored by a team (10), recorded the most goals bya team in a period (7). Trevor Gallant also set a player record with 6 points that included an assist record of 5.As for the Capitals, praise must be given to them for staying in the gamefor a period and a half, but in the end with their short bench two gamesin 48 hours took a heavy toll on them.After a blank first period no one was to know what was going to unfold inthe second period as we had a goal avalanche. Panthers opened the scoring at 21.19 as Matus Petricko (15th of the season) found the net. The lead was doubled a minute later with a goal from Rod Stevens (17th). The Capitals pulled one back at 23.41 through Neil Hay (5th).Then the floodgates opened as the Panthers hit 5 in a 9minute spell. SeanMcAslan (35th) made it 31 at 28.29. Then two in just over a minute in the33rd minute from Trevor Gallant (1st) and Matthew Myers (4th) increasedPanthers lead to 51.The home side didn't stop there and hit another two in an 18 second spell.Sean McAslan (36th) with his second at 36.57 quickly followed by James Cooke at 37.14 gave the home side a commanding lead after two periods.The Panthers didn't let up and for the third time in the game they scored aquickfire double, Joe Cardarelli (9th) netted at 42.34 and a minute laterSean McAslan (37th) completed his third hat trick of the season. Then at46.23 they took their goal tally into double figures as Rod Stevens (18th)with his double completed the scoring on the night.Period Scores 00, 71, 30Penalty Mins 22Shots On Geoff Woolhouse 22 Stephen Murphy 30Ryan Ford 16 http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=276 Sat, 10 Mar 07 21:00:00 CET Devils went into this game having lost their last two home games whilst Capitals had lost their last two games on the road, so something had to give. In the end it was the home side that came out on top to record their third victory over the Capitals on home ice this season.The Devils got off the mark at 8.07 with a goal from Nathan Rempel (14th). They then doubled their lead at 12.31 as Dave Iannazzo (24th) found the net. Max Birbraer (26th) added number three at 16.17 to give them a 30 first period lead.The Capitals pulled one back at 24.11 with a powerplay goal from Patrik Luza (10th), but the Devils wasted very little time in restoring their 3 goal lead as within six seconds Mark Smith (33rd) found the net. Patrik Luza (11th) got another back for the Capitals at 33.34 only for the Devils to reply quickly once again as Brad Voth (12th) scored at 34.36.The third period was oneway traffic as the Capitals buckled under the pressure the home side outshooting them 185. But they could only add a further two goals.The first came at 49.49 as Brad Voth (13th) scored his second of the game. The final goal came from Nathan Rempel (15th) also with his double for the night with only 10 seconds of play remaining.Period Scores 30 22, 20Penalty Mins 104Shots On Phil Osaer 32Joe Myers 2 Stephen Murphy 47 http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=275 Tue, 06 Mar 07 12:00:00 CET Edinburgh Capitals have signedBritish forward Phil Mannyto help out their injury crisis. He will make his debut for the Scottish club in Saturday'smatch against theCardiff Devils.Manny will be providing injury cover for away games only andis not expected to be playing in any home games. http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=273 Sun, 04 Mar 07 21:00:00 CET The Capitals went into this game on the back of two home wins and were looking for another victory to boost their play off chances. But, it was the Bison who came out on top with a repeat of the score line that they achieved the last time they were in the Scottish capital.The visitors got off to the perfect start with a goal at 1.37 from Blair Manning (7th) but they only held onto this lead for a minute as Iain Bowie (2nd) tied the game up at 2.35.The Bison were to make their special teams pay off as they scored two in as many minutes, Kevin Bergin (28th) on the shorthand at 5.34 then Blair Manning (8th) with his second of the game on the powerplay at 7.42 to give the visitors a two lead.The Capitals pulled one back through Stephen Lynch (3rd) at 29.17 only for Greg Owen (19th, 20th) to hit two in 21 seconds to give the Bison a commanding lead. His first goal came at 31.30 with the second at 31.51 to put the visitors 52 in front.The third period saw Bison taking a number of minor penalties bit the Capitals could not make any of them count and the period ended goalless.Period Scores 13, 12, 00Penalty Mins 1030Shots On Stephen Murphy 27 Curtis Cruickshank 24 http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=272 Sat, 03 Mar 07 21:00:00 CET Belfast went into this game hoping to regain second spot, whilst Edinburgh were hoping to make it three wins in the Irish Capital on league business this season.The opening twenty minutes was a very tight affair with chances for both teams, but neither team could find an opener and the period ended goalless.It was a different story in the second session as Belfast scored at the start and end with two other goals in between to take a commanding lead. Mark Dutiaume (23rd) got the ball rolling just 14 seconds into the period.They then had to wait until 29.24 for Jason Ruff (26th) to add the second. Then at 36.26 George Awada (21st) made it 30 to the home side. Heading towards the end of the period Mark Dutiaume (24th) with his second of the game netted the home sides fourth at 39.37.An Ed Courtenay double at 42.52 and 54.08 his first goals of the season increased Giants lead to 60. George Awada (22nd) had the final say of the game at 58.49 as he netted his second of the game.Philippe DeRouville in only his second game for Giants his first on home ice posted a 22 shot shut out.Period Scores 00, 40, 30Penalty Mins 196Shots On Philippe DeRouville 22 Stephen Murphy 21Ryan Ford 9 http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=271 Tue, 27 Feb 07 10:00:00 CET Dino Bauba will be temporarily transferred back to Paisley Pirates tomorrow (Wednesday, 1945) as big time ice hockey returns to Braehead.Bauba was a cult hero when he played for the Paisley club in the mid1990s.And he lines up for Pirates in a challenge against his Elite League teammates from Edinburgh Capitals.It's the first time that a top ice hockey side has played at the arena since the demise of Scottish Eagles.And Pirates secretary, Bill Elliot (cor), said "Ive spoken to lots of Pirates fans who are looking forward to seeing Dino Bauba back in a club shirt."He was a real fans favourite when he played for Pirates and it will bring back a lot of memories for a lot of people."Pirates go into the game on the back of a comefrombehind Win over newlook Dundee Tigers on Saturday.They were 31 down going into the final period but fired five unanswered Goals to take the points in the Scottish National League clash.Capitals edged former league pacesetters Belfast Giants 32 after being 20 down.Elliot added "I reckon we'll get a good crowd for the game and we're grateful to Capitals' general manager, Scott Neil, for agreeing to bring his team through."We've had tremendous support from everyone at Braehead since we moved in a few weeks ago and we hope to attract fans from all over to come and see hockey played in such great surroundings."Neil has promised to bring his full roster for the game and he said "Pirates have had a tough season since the closure of their former base at The Lagoon and I'm pleased to be able to help them build a crowd at their new home."Tickets cost 6 (adult) and 4 (child). http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=270 Sun, 25 Feb 07 21:00:00 CET The incredible spirit within the Edinburgh Capitals squad shone through once again as still minus replacements for the 3 recent import departures, they came back from a 2goal deficit to heap more misery on slumping Belfast Giants.Capitals now 4 wins from their last 6 and still very much alive and skating for a PlayOff spot but for Giants, this was a 5th straight road loss and the former league leaders are now being sucked into midtable.After the opening period however it was looking good for Ed Courtenay's men as a powerplay double strike had them 20 ahead.Both goals were scored by Jeff Hutchins (26th 27th) at 3.28 and 14.28 respectively.It was a different story after that as Capitals hit back strongly.At 21.20 Dino Bauba (17th) pulled one back and then on the powerplay Martin Cingel (19th) levelled at 35.26.No further scoring from that point on and overtime was looming when Capitals grabbed a priceless winner while shorthanded as Cingel (20th) became the home hero at 57.28.Period Scores 02, 20, 10Penalty Mins 1836Shots On Stephen Murphy 32 Mike Minard 23 http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=269 Wed, 21 Feb 07 12:15:00 CET Friday 16th March 2007The Macdonald Holyrood Hotel1900 for 1930Tickets priced at 40 per person3 course meal followed by awards presentation and discoCome and experience an enjoyable evening crammed full of fun and excitement. You'll start off with a lip smacking three course meal prepared in association with one of the Macdonald Groups top chefs, followed by the awards presentation to acknowledge and thank our players for their hard work and dedication, and then top off the evening by boogying into the early hours.To book your places or for further information please contact Scott Neil on 0131 313 2977 or email scott@edinburghcapitals.comTickets will be on sale at the game this Sunday evening http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=268 Wed, 21 Feb 07 12:00:00 CET Come skating with the Capitals to celebrate the launch of the Capitals Kids Club at Murrayfield Ice Rink on Saturday the 24th of February 2007, 14301630.The Capitals will be on the ice between 1500 and 1600 and will be available to give advice on skating, sign autographs and pose for photos.Doesn't matter what your skills are like, beginners are most welcome to come join in too. Please email capskids@edinburghcapitals.com if you fancy joining the crew.Cost 5 per person payable on the day. http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=267 Sun, 18 Feb 07 21:00:00 CET With still no replacements in for the 3 players that recently left the club,Capitals only travelled to Wales with 12 skaters and the lack of numberscoupled with them losing Pavel Kowalczyk near the end of the second periodclearly played it's part as despite battling hard the Scots lost out toDevils by the odd goal in 5.Devils had more of the play in the opening period but could not turn thepressure into goals. The home side were then shocked at 29.48 when PatrikLuza (9th) shot Capitals ahead on the powerplay. Devils hit back quicklyhowever and at 33.28 it was all square with Max Birbraer (20th) finding thenet and then at 37.33 the home side hit the front with Tyson Teplitsky(11th) providing the finishing touch.In the same minute (37.54), Kowalczyk was ejected on a 5+game for checkingfrom behind with Martin Cingel's unhappiness at that call costing him a 10minute misconduct.A powerplay goal by Mark Richardson (7th) made it 31 at 42.04 but allcredit to Capitals as they continued to have opportunities and at 50.35 onthe powerplay, Dino Bauba (16th) brought them to within a goal.Capitals ended up outshooting Devils by 1611 in the final period but couldfind no further way through and Devils claimed both points and left themountain that Capitals must climb to reach the PlayOff's that bit steeper.Period Scores 00, 21, 11Penalty Mins 2449Shots On Phil Osaer 33 Stephen Murphy 45 http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=266 Sun, 11 Feb 07 21:00:00 CET Edinburgh may be short of personnel at the moment, but there is no doubting their determination. This win sees them off bottom spot for the first time since the 23rd December 2006. As for Hull they are definitely in freefall, having now lost their last 8 games and this defeat sees them lying in bottom place in the league for the first time this season.The opening period was tight until the last four minutes as the Capitals netted two in the space of 26 seconds. Teenager Ian Bowie with his first ever goal for the club opened the scoring at 16.35. Capitals doubled their lead with a goal from Dino Bauba (15th) at 17.01.The second session was goalless and the Capitals held onto their twogoal advantage.The Stingrays got on the board at 45.23 as Sergiy Rublivsky (18th) made it a one goal game. The Capitals were not phased by this goal and at 48.08 Patrik Luza (8th) restored the twogoal lead. The home side had a chance to seal the points at 56.05 as they were awarded a penalty shot but returnee Miroslav Bielik (after being out injured) saved the effort. This did not deter the Capitals and despite being shorthanded Martin Cingel (18th) found the empty net at 57.48.Period Scores 20 00, 21Penalty Mins 86Shots On Stephen Murphy 21 Miroslav Bielik 25 + 1 ENG http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=265 Sat, 10 Feb 07 21:00:00 CET An important win for the still shortstaffed Capitals as they battle to retain hopes of staying in the PlayOff picture but Bison look as they need to pick up their own form now 3 straight losses and nervously looking over their shoulder while holding the that final PlayOff place at present.Two goals in 15 seconds in the opening period got this one warmed up nicely, with a powerplay goal by Duncan Dalmeo (with his 6th goal of the season) at 13.54 being cancelled out by Martin Cingel (17th at 14.05.Bison then took the lead for the second time when at 29.00 Brad Cruikshank (21st) scored what turned out to be the only goal of the session.Visiting Capitals were no doubt well aware that defeat would leve them virtually out of the PlayOff's and they turned the game on it's head to take the points. Andrej Rajcak (12th) tied it up at 45.55 and then late on young Neil Hay (4th) scored what turned out to be the game winner at 56.19, with Pavel Kowalczyk (9th) adding the insurance into the empty Bison net with 45 seconds remaining.Period Scores 11, 10, 03Penalty Mins 126Shots On Curtis Cruickshank 34 + 1 ENG Stephen Murphy 42 http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=264 Mon, 05 Feb 07 13:00:00 CET Scottish Ice Hockey will undergo a major change next month when the countrys Big Five will form a new body that aims to take the sport forward to a new level. Braehead Paisley Pirates, Dundee Texol Stars, Edinburgh Capitals, Fife Flyers and Solway Sharks have been invited to compete in a new tournament from March onwards. The competition, that has a major new sponsor who will be announced soon, will take the place of the SNL Playoff championship and will run through till April. For season 20072008 the clubs will form the Scottish Premier Hockey League that will begin in September and the five clubs will play each other four times per season, twice at home and twice away from home. Each club will have the option to sign one import (non British trained) player for this competition. The SPHL will run in tandem with the Northern League that will feature the same clubs as played in the competition this season. Although, due to their Elite League commitments, Edinburgh Capitals will not take part in the Northern League there is an indication that one, possibly two more English teams may apply for to join. Clubs in the Northern League will have the opportunity to sign up to two non British trained players.The SPHL has been authorised by Scottish Ice Hockey Limited and Chairman Stuart Muir commented, The SIHL was approached by the directors of each of the five clubs with an application to set up a new Scottish Premier Hockey League. Their business plan was put before the SIHL and has the backing of the board. The clubs have shown that they are committed to working together to progress the sport so that each team will be competitive and run on a sound business footing. It is an exciting venture and I am sure it is one that will be of a great benefit to the sport in Scotland.Edinburgh Capitals owner, Scott Neil said, It is essential for the future development of Scottish Ice Hockey that a new structured league is put into place that will help teams play games in a very competitive environment. The Scottish Premier Hockey League will give us that structure.Braehead Paisley Pirates Bill Elliot added, Pirates, along with the other four clubs signed up to the new structure, agree that this is the way forward and see it as the means to help develop ice hockey in the future.The Scottish Premier Hockey League will introduce a tier which perhaps hasn't been available to Scottish hockey for some years. It'simportant that there is a graduated system that can achieve further development along with a league where the results of matches are in doubt every week. The clubs are cooperating off the ice to ensure that this is the case, and as a result Pirates see this setup as being an essential step forward.A Flyers spokesman said, Fife Flyers are delighted to be involved in this new venture and it can only be to the benefit of ice hockey in Scotland. We need a strong, competitive league and with the five clubs working closely together, we have the chance to achieve that. These are exciting times ahead.Dundee Texol Stars director, Charlie Ward endorsed the views of his fellow owners when he said, The clubs were looking for a structure to improve the sport in Scotland and we all feel that we now have that structure. To succeed it is imperative that we all work together for the benefit of the sport and not just for our own clubs. Each of the five clubs in the SPHL are committed to that. The Scottish Premier Hockey League hopes to announce the fixtures for the new competition within the next few days. http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=262 Sun, 04 Feb 07 21:00:00 CET Two games in a weekend told on a shortbenched Capitals team. They seemed to have the points in the bag but two goals in 17 seconds with five minutes to play saw Devils take the points and gave the Welsh team their first win on the road in four games.The visitors out shot the home team 146 in the first period but only had the one goal to show for their efforts. The goal came with only 2.42 on the clock as Mark Smith (25th) netted on the powerplay.The Capitals drew level early in the second period as Patrik Luza (9th) scored on the powerplay at 21.25. This lead was short lived as within 5 seconds the Devils were back in front as Dave Iannazzo (19th) made it 21. The home side came back for the second time as Stephen Lynch (2nd) found the net at 24.27.A minute into the third session the home side went in front for the first time in the game with a goal from Dino Bauba (14th). This is how it stayed until 54.51 when Tyson Teplitsky (9th) tied the game up at 3 apiece. Then 17 seconds later the Devils went in front as Mark Smith (26th) found the net. Smith who scored a hat trick against the Capitals 11 days ago did it once again with his 27th of the season as he found the empty net with 2 seconds remaining.Period Scores 01 21,13Penalty Mins 1216Shots On Stephen Murphy 20 + 1 ENG Phil Osaer 35 http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=261 Sat, 03 Feb 07 21:00:00 CET A remarkable road win for bottom of the league Capitals who during the week lost 3 of their top 4 goal scorers to clubs abroad.Capitals' PlayOff hopes may still be slim but this, their first win after 7 straight losses, might give them renewed energy for the weeks ahead.For Vipers, the loss through injury of top goaltender Peter Aubry just after the halfway point was clearly crucial.It was the home side who led early on thanks to a goal by Jeremy Cornish (5th) at 6.09 and although Patrik Luza (6th) equalised at 7.53, a strike by skipper Jonathan Weaver (15th) had Vipers ahead at the first break.Dino Bauba (12th) tied it up again at 21.41 and then on a delayed penalty Andrej Rajcak (10th) shot the visitors ahead at 31.38 with goaltender Aubry leaving the game at this point also.Rod Hinks (15th) did level for Vipers at 32.31 and then Andre Payette (14th) on the powerplay at 34.09 edged the home side ahead but new goaltender Mark Lee was beaten at 35.46 by Matthew Craig (9th) to see Capitals level again and at 37.17 on another delayed penalty call (Vipers' Jason Robinson being ejected on a 5+game for slashing) Rajcak (11th) gave the visitors a crucial advantage.At 41.12 Bauba (13th) grabbed his second of the game for a 2goal Capitals lead and this proved important and indeed turned ou to be the game winning goal after Shaun Johnson (8th) pulled one back at 52.44.Period Scores 21, 24, 11Penalty Mins 4116Shots On Peter Aubry 14Mark Lee 12 Stephen Murphy 34 http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=260 Tue, 30 Jan 07 14:00:00 CET Following the departure of Gregor Slak, Jason Silverthorn and Lou Dickenson the Edinburgh Capitals have already been hard at work looking for replacements, a task which began some weeks ago.Nottingham Panthers forwardSteve Simoes was seen as being a contender for one of the vacantroles.Unfortunately, after making enquirieswith the Panthers, Scott Neil has to announce that Simoes has his heart set on returningto North America and so won't be signing for the Capitals. http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=259 Mon, 29 Jan 07 11:00:00 CET Edinburgh Capitals were today hit with a triple whammy as three leading players quit the club after a pointless weekend which leaves the Murrayfield men marooned at the foot of the tenstrong table following seven straight defeats. Top gun Jason Silverthorn, inspirational forward Lou Dickenson and Gregor Slak are off to pastures new, leaving Capitals with a huge task to clinch an endofseason playoff place. Coach Scott Neil will host a team talkin tomorrow as he fights to maintain dipping morale ahead of next weekend's doubleheader at Newcastle Vipers on Saturday and at home to Cardiff Devils 24 hours later. And defiant Neil declared "We're not throwing in the towel." Silverthorn, who is off to Slovenia with his friend Slak, missed last night's 74 defeat by Newcastle Vipers which leaves the men from the Riversdale rink four points adrift of secondbottom Hull Stingrays. Capitals have also played a game more. By Nigel Duncan Media Ltdhttpedinburghnews.scotsman.comsport.cfm?id=152352007 http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=258 Sun, 28 Jan 07 21:00:00 CET Important road win for Vipers as they aim to stay within the PlayOff positions but for Capitals this was their seventh straight loss and the Scots are now in real danger of losing touch at the bottom end of the league.This game was basically won and lost in the opening period as Vipers skated to a 41 lead.Only 1.33 in and a powerplay goal by David Longstaff (18th) had Vipers ahead and at 5.54 Shaun Johnson (6th) doubled the lead. Andre Payette (12th) made it 30 at 9.31 before Capitals pulled one back 28 seconds later through Pavel Kowalczyk (8th). Vipers had the final word in the period however and shorthanded Longstaff (19th) added a fourth at 14.18.Early in the second session Cory Morgan (13th) made it 51 before the home side finally came to life and scored twice in a minute to give them hope scorers being Martin Cingel (15th) at 34.02 and then on the powerplay Cingel (16th) again 46 seconds later.Any hopes the home side had were in effect ended when Payette's second (13th) made it 63 at 48.02 and despite Ian Beattie (1st) adding a fourth for Capitals at 54.34 the scoring was rounded off by Morgan (14th) with his second of the game at 57.44 shorthanded.Period Scores 14, 21, 12Penalty Mins 1624Shots On Stephen Murphy 24 Peter Aubry 27Mark Lee 2 http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=257 Sat, 27 Jan 07 21:00:00 CET Steelers finally gained a win over bogey team Capitals at the sixth and final time of asking in the regular season and they did it in some style by blanking the Scots for the first time this season.Steelers now 6 straight wins and goaltender Jody Lehman now 2 shutouts in 4 days.Capitals now struggling to keep in the PlayOff picture with this their sixth straight loss.Despite being outshot by 168 in the opening period, Capitals managed to keep out the form team of the EIHL right now but their defence was eventually breached at 27.09 with a powerplay goal scored by new signing Ryan Finnerty (1st goal of the season).Capitals were still in the game until early in the final session when Jason Hewitt (8th) made it 20 and the scoring was completed by Scott Ricci (4th) again on the powerplay at 53.30.This result also saw Steelers progress to the semifinals of the British Knockout Cup on a63 aggregate.Period Scores 00, 10, 20Penalty Mins 1426Shots On Jody Lehman 26 Stephen Murphy 42 http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=256 Wed, 24 Jan 07 21:00:00 CET Something had to give in this game with Cardiff going into the encounterhaving had 6 straight losses whilst Edinburgh were winless in 4.At the end of the 60 minutes it was the home team who got back to winningways with a devastating win that saw Mark Smith hit a straight hat trick inthe final period.They hosts got off to a flying start as Max Birbraer (15th) opened thescoring with the quickest EIHL goal this season only 7 seconds on theclock. The lead was doubled at 11.35 as Tyson Teplitsky (7th) fired pastStephen Murphy. The visitors pulled one back through Matthew Craig (8th)with 13.14 on the clock but Devils regained their twogoal lead at 18.57with a 4 on 3 powerplay strike from Dave Iannazzo (16th). Both sides had plenty of chances in the second period but neither could findtheir way to goal and after 2 periods it was still 31 to Cardiff.The third period belonged to Mark Smith who took his goal tally to 20 forthe season. Inside the first minute of the period he scored for the Devilsto lead 41. He then hit two goals in 3 minutes at 51.37 and 54.18 tocomplete his hat trick and also the scoring.Capitals hit major penalty trouble in the final period with both AndrejRajcak and Patrik Luza being ejected the latter on a match penalty calledat the final buzzerPeriod Scores 31, 00, 30Penalty Mins 1263Shots On Phil Osaer 37 Stephen Murphy 42 http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=255 Tue, 23 Jan 07 9:00:00 CET Jason Silverthorn likes to accentuate the positive, and he's boosted by the fact that Edinburgh Capitals are continuing to create chances.He's also positive about Capitals continuing to outshoot the opposition but disappointed that the Elite League bottom club have not converted them into goals.Silverthorn, who has 19 goals and 19 assists to his credit in the official league stats to date, will be a key man when Capitals travel to Cardiff Devils on Wednesday night looking to close the fourpoint gap between them andsecondbottom Hull Stingrays.The Canadian said "We outshot both Basingstoke, who are in fifth place in the table, and Coventry, who are second, to leaders Belfast Giants."There is so much partity in the league it's tough as you can dominate a game for more than two periods, as we did at Basingstoke on Saturday, and we played well against Coventry, yet we come away with with nothing."It's tough to take but a hockey game is 60 minutes and we have to compete for the Whole game. If you don't take your chances, or you make a mistake, then you are punished."Also, if you don't take your second chances from rebounds then it can hurt you and We must get smarter."The guys deserve credit for the way they played at Basingstoke and at home to Coventry."However, we must start putting our chances away. Individuals can have problems with that during the season, but we have to keep plugging away."We have another chance on Wednesday in Cardiff. We've played them twice before this season, both times at Murrayfield, and lost 43 both times."Silverthorn admitted that Capitals need to put a winning run together if they want to put pressure on the teams above them in the table.And the popular player said "We need a result and every game is critical right now as we need to climb the table."A little gap has developed and we must start picking up points. We're capable of winning on the road as we've proved this season and we need to get another one in the bag on Wednesday."By Nigel Duncan Media Ltd http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=254 Sun, 21 Jan 07 21:00:00 CET Coventry made it 5 wins out of 5 against the Capitals and continue to keep the pressure on Belfast in the fight for the league title. Edinburgh on the other hand have now lost their last 4 games and are 6 points adrift of the last play off spot.The Blaze got their noses in front with the only marker of the first period just before the midway point as Ashley Tait (13th) netted at 8.26 on the powerplay.They doubled their lead at 22.50 with another powerplay goal from Samy Nasreddine (3rd). Jason Silverthorn (19th) Capitals leading special teams player added to his tally as he pulled one back shorthanded at 26.54.Blaze added a further two goal in the third period to open up a 3 goal lead. The first came from the stick of Rumun Ndur (6th) at 48.54 this was followed by a goal from Tom Watkins (6th) at 54.51. Dino Bauba (9th) scored a powerplay consolation goal with a minute to go, but it was a case of too little too late.Period Scores 01 11, 12Penalty Mins 814Shots On Stephen Murphy 22 Trevor Koenig 38 http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=253 Sat, 20 Jan 07 21:00:00 CET Having only won once in their last five games Basingstoke took this one by the odd goal in five as they came from behind to take the points.The visitors got off to the best possible start as Andrej Rajcak (9th) fired them in front with a powerplay goal at 4.58. Despite the Capitals out shooting the hosts 21 in the first period they only had the one solitary goal to show for their efforts.The home side got back on level terms with a goal from Blair Manning (4th) at 27.39. But they failed to consolidate and the Capitals were back in front just over two minutes later as Pavel Kowalczyk (7th) edged them 21 in front at 29.51.Greg Owen (10th) got the home side level for the second time as he netted on the powerplay at 45.22. With the game heading for overtime Jim Shepherd (7th) had other ideas and hit home the gamewinning goal at 56.14. Period Scores 01 11, 20Penalty Mins 144Shots On Curtis Cruickshank 43 Stephen Murphy 36 http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=252 Wed, 17 Jan 07 21:00:00 CET Coventry went top of the league with this win, in the process they toppledBelfast who have been in the prime spot since 14th October 2006. The lasttime Coventry were top of the league was the first weekend of the season.But they had to do it the hard way as they came from behind. After goingdown to 2 early Edinburgh goals they fought back to hit 6 unanswered to winthe game.With 5 minutes on the clock top spot in the league must have felt a millionmiles away as the home side found themselves two down. Lou Dickenson (13thleague goal) netted on the powerplay at 3.06 and then at 5.13 the visitorswent two in front as Andrej Rajcak (8th) netted. The hosts fought back andtwo powerplay goals from Dan Carlson (18th) at 12.06 and Ashley Tait (11th)at 15.55 tied the game up at two apiece.Coventry went in front at 28.29 as Dan Carlson (19th) netted his second ofthe game and they then added to their lead at 34.53 as Danny Stewart (8th)gave them a twogoal lead at the end of the second period.Neal Martin (3rd) on the powerplay 5 seconds into the third period put thegame beyond the Capitals as he made it 52. Barrie Moore (13th) again on thepowerplay added number six at 50.14. With the game won and top spot securedBlaze gave GB junior Stephen Fone his first outing of the season at 51.35.But it was the Capitals that had the last say as Dino Buaba (8th) completedthe scoring at 57.39.Period Scores 22, 20, 21Penalty Mins 1016Shots On Trevor Koenig 27 Stephen Fone 5 Stephen Murphy 39 http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=251 Mon, 15 Jan 07 9:00:00 CET Edinburgh Capitals face the form team in the bmibaby Elite League twice in the next three matches. Scott Neils men head for Coventry Blaze on Wednesday before visiting midtable Basingstoke Bison on Saturday.Coventry, who are currently second in the Elite League race, then travel to Murrayfield on Sunday.Neil said I have no worries taking this team on the road. We play good hockey and have been outshooting teams home and away.Were still not taking some of our chances but our recent record is encouraging.We are also making strides as a club as we have earned more points now than we did in the whole of last season.The problem is that this league has improved and the standard is so high that one bad bounce can cost you dear.By Nigel Duncan Media Ltd http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=250 Sun, 14 Jan 07 21:00:00 CET Nottingham consolidated 3rd place in the league with this victory over bottom team Edinburgh. But it took an empty net goal in the last minute to secure the points.The visitors were first to show when at 12.20 on the powerplay Patrik Luza (4th league goal) fired them in front. The hosts got back on level terms at 16.40 as Rod Stevens (10th) netted on the powerplay.Panthers hit two inside the first four minutes of the second period to give them some breathing space. The first came at 21.23 as Sean McAslan (26th) and then at 23.58 Ryan Shmyr (5th) gave the home side a 31 lead. The Capitals cut the deficit at 33.44 with a goal from Dino Bauba (7th).Both teams had chances in the third period but as time went on neither of them could find a way through. With time running out Capitals pulled goaltender Stephen Murphy, but it was David Clarke (24th) of the Panthers who took advantage as he fired into the empty net at 59.46. Period Scores 11, 21, 10Penalty Mins 128Shots On Rastislav Rovnianek 37 Stephen Murphy 34 + 1 ENG http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=249 Sat, 13 Jan 07 21:00:00 CET Capitals completed a complete sweep of 3 from 3 home victories over Steelers in regular season play and cheered the home faithful with their first Murrayfield win after 3 straight losses.For Steelers, the struggle continues now 6 consecutive league losses.A goalless opening period but the scoring started with Jason Silverthorn (17th) opening on the powerplay timed at 22.24, however Steelers levelled through Shane Johnson (2nd) at 28.08.Martin Cingel (10th) again shot the home side ahead at 30.07 but back came Steelers to tie the game once again as Jason Hewitt (5th) found the net at 39.08.After only 59 seconds of the third period Shaun Sutter (19th) edged the visitors in front for the first time and it took until 51.46 for Capitals to equalise and send the game into overtime as Andrej Rajcak (7th) scored. No goals in a freeflowing overtime period and onto the penalty shootout where the home side kept their season perfect record (now 4 from 4) with Lou Dickenson hitting the winning shot after the initial round of 3 shots was tied 11.Period Scores 00, 22, 11, 00Penalty Mins 2022Shots On Stephen Murphy 39 Jody Lehman 39 http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=248 Thu, 11 Jan 07 9:00:00 CET Scott Neil hopes several players are passed fit for Saturdays home clash with fellowstrugglers Sheffield Steelers including Great Britain netminder Stephen Murphy.The Dundeeborn goaltender was in superb form as bottom club Edinburgh Capitals edged Steelers for the fourth time so far this season in The House of Steel last Saturday.Neil said Stephen had a superb game in Sheffield but he missed Sundays home defeat by Newcastle and hasnt trained so far this week.Weve gone easy on the boys this week as weve had a tough spell of games and were anxious to rid the dressingroom of the bug which has been going around.By Nigel Duncan Media Ltd http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=247 Tue, 09 Jan 07 9:00:00 CET Edinburgh Capitals coach Scott Neil urged fans to continue believing that his men can make the endofseason playoffs as they still have over 20 matches left in the league campaign.New recruit Kyle Horne, who was adjusting to life in Britain's top league after playing in the English Premier League, is however ruled out for around a month with a chipped ankle bone after being hit by a flying puck in Saturday's victory at The House of Steel.That's a massive blow as the Great Britain defenceman's addition to the squad allowed Neil to switch versatile Canadian Matthew Craig into the forward line at Sheffield.Neil was down to his uppers at home to Newcastle Vipers on Sunday as Great Britain hotstop Stephen Murphy, who had an outstanding game at Sheffield, particularly in the later stages, was missing because of a chest infection and the club named teenage netminder Mark McGill as backup.Defenceman Daniel McIntyre was dressed but not used as he is suffering from the bug and Ross Dalgleish was not even at the rink as he struggles with the virus.Exprienced Steven Lynch, Iain Beattie and Lewis Glasgow were all on duty with the club's Scottish National League side and Neil had to switch his lines again.Newcastle had two players missing but Neil had intended to play things tight in a game he had targeted as a crucial home win.It didn't turn out that way and, for the second time since Tuesday, Vipers returned to the Metro Arena with full points.Now Sheffield Steelers visit Murrayfield on Saturday and Neil said "We're unbeaten against Sheffield so far and we aim to continue that sequence. On Sunday we go to Nottingham but we've won there already this season and going there does not worry me."As regards our home form, it's so frustrating. We outshot Newcastle 3520 and yet ended up looosing 52."We've outshot other teams during the season and lost as well and it seems as if we're having a lot of pressure but not turning that into goals and thereby points."The fact that we're outshooting teams is good and it also means we're creating chances but we must convert them."Going forward it's essential to turn chances into goals and we'll be working on things in training this week."By Nigel Duncan Media Ltd http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=246 Sun, 07 Jan 07 21:00:00 CET The home side were without number one goaltender Stephen Murphy, but must have been confident after their win in Sheffield last night. But, not for the first time this season after getting a great result on the Saturday night they failed to come good at home.The Capitals never got off to a great start as they found themselves down by two inside the first five minutes. With 3.19 on the clock the Vipers opened their account as Cory Morgan (11th) netted, then at 5.15 the same player got his second of the game. The Capitals did pull one back before the end of the period as Gregor Slak (14th) scored at 16.14.With the second period under way the Vipers who had won at Basingstoke last night were showing no signs of tiredness as they added to their account with a third goal at 26.09 from Jonathan Weaver (11th). They then made it 41 at 36.12 as Andre Payette (8th) netted.The Capitals out shot their opponents 152 in the third period but only got the better of Peter Aubry the once and that was at 51.24 as Pavel Kowalczyk (6th) scored on the powerplay. The final goal of the period came at 59.21 with Ryan Ford pulled David Longstaff (13th) found the empty netPeriod Scores 12, 02, 11Penalty Mins 210Shots On Ryan Ford 20 + 1 ENG Peter Aubry 35 http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=244 Sat, 06 Jan 07 23:00:00 CET With the Edinburgh Capitals winning tonights game against Sheffield Steelers and Newcastle Vipers beating Basingstoke Bison it is a big showdown this Sunday with both the Capitals and the Vipers needing the points to keep their play off dreams alive.The Capitals need your support in this crucial Elite league showdown, so please come along and help give them a boost.The Capitals take on the Vipers on Sunday 7th January, face off at 1800. Tickets are 13 adults, 9 concessions, 7 kids and 31. http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=245 Sat, 06 Jan 07 21:00:00 CET The Steelers seem to be in a real slump at the moment as they have only won twice in their last twelve outings. And the Capitals seem to have a jinx over the Steelers this season as this was their fourth win out of four meetings between the teams. The Capitals have won twice at home and now twice away.Yet it was the home side that took the early initiative with the only goal of the first period as Phil Hill (8th) netted at 16.18 on the powerplay.Shawn Maltby made it 20 at 23.48 only for Martin Cingel (9th) to pull one back on the powerplay at 26.20. Capitals then levelled with their second powerplay goal at 31.13 Maththew Craig (6th) scoring, before turning the game in their favour at 34.58 as Gregor Slak (13th) edged them in front. Despite the home team out shooting their opponents 158 in the third period they could not find a way past Murphy and at 45.47 were dealt a sucker punch as Lou Dickenson (12th) netted with a shorthanded effort to ice the points for the Scots.Period Scores 10, 13, 01Penalty Mins 1216Shots On Jody Lehman 33 Stephen Murphy 32 http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=243 Thu, 04 Jan 07 9:00:00 CET Edinburgh Capitals coach Scott Neil set a target of four points from the games against Vipers last night and the weekend doubleheader at Sheffield Steelers on Saturday and at home to Newcastle again on Sunday. And Neil believes the club can still achieve the target.He said "We now must win in Sheffield. We've done that before this year and I have no fears about travelling with this team."Statistics back up Neil's argument and Capitals seem to be a better proposition away from the Riversdale rink.Neil argued "The result on Tuesday was disappointing, particularly after our superb win at Belfast. We made some bad defensive errors and it was a blow as we had the momentum at 32. They scored seconds after to level and we should have gone into the dressingroom ahead at the final break."We've just got to keep working away and we must put a run of games together."He added "Newcastle are a workmanlike team and they have a lot of good players but they are, I believe, a beatable team."Bad defensive errors cost us but we have to take positives out of the game. We are creating chances and we were in the game right up to the final whistle."There is a long way to go in the title race and a lot of hockey to be played yet. We'll not give up and our games are always close."We need to work on a few things but we remain confident. We've beaten Sheffield down there already this season and we travel with optimism."Newcastle are at Murrayfield again on Sunday and I set a target of four points from Newcastle's visit here last night, the Sheffield trip and the return visit by Newcastle on Sunday."We can still achieve that and, if we do, then we'll still be in the hunt for a playoff place."By Nigel Duncan Media Ltd http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=239 Tue, 02 Jan 07 21:00:00 CET In an evenly fought contest the battle between the basement teams ended with Newcastle coming out on top by the odd goal in seven to give them some breathing space. The result puts them closer to the vital eighth place in the league that guarantees a play off spot.The home side were first off the mark with the opening goal coming shorthanded at 4.29 from Lou Dickenson (10th League goal). The visitors were back on level terms at 13.15 with a powerplay goal from Andre Payette (6th).The second period saw the teams trade four goals between them the first came the way of the Vipers as Jonathan Weaver (9th) put the visitors 21 in front. The hosts were back on level terms at 33.12 with a goal from Gregor Slak (12th). In the final two minutes of the period goals were traded once again, Lou Dickenson (11th) with his second goal of the game put the home side 32 in front. The Vipers tied the game at 3 apiece 53 seconds later as Paul Ferone (4th) found the back of Murphy's net.Only the one goal in the third period and what a vital goal it was for the team from Tyneside. Paul Ferone (5th) with his second of the game hit home the gamewinning goal on the powerplay at 44.09 to give the visitors the two points.Period Scores 11, 22, 01Penalty Mins 88Shots On Stephen Murphy 26 Peter Aubry 29 http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=242 Sat, 30 Dec 06 21:00:00 CET For the second time in two weeks Edinburgh took the spoils from league leaders Belfast. Last time out they won on penalties but on this occasion they done it over the sixty minutes. The Giants seem to be in freefall as they have only won two of their last eight games.After a goalless first period The Giants opened the scoring at 25.56 as Curtis Huppe (17th) found the back of Stephen Murphys net. They failed to hold onto the lead for any length of time and the visitors were level at 29.29 with a goal from Patrik Luza 3(rd). The Capitals then stunned the home crowed as Lou Dickenson (9th) scored on the powerplay to put the visitors 21 in front.Despite out shooting the Capitals 143 in the third session the Giants couldnt find a way past the impressive Murphy in the Capitals goal who was standing on his head to deny the home side time after time. With goaltender Mike Minard pulled late in the game it was the visitors who came closest to scoring as Martin Cingel hit a post.Period Scores 00, 12, 00Penalty Mins 2814Shots On Mike Minard 22 Stephen Murphy 28 http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=237 Thu, 28 Dec 06 21:00:00 CET Edinburgh Capitals turned on the power to come from 74 behind with less than 17 minutes left to beat minnows Dundee Texol Stars 107 in the secondleg of a postChristmas challenge on Tayside.Elite League Capitals won comfortably 154 against an understrength Stars side at Murrayfield on Tuesday in the firstleg but they didn't have it all their own way last night against the Scotish National League ouftit.Stars were at fullstrength and led 54 at the second break before extending their advantage to 74 in the 44th minute through John Churchill.But Capitals refused to buckle and teenage prospect Lee Coyle netted 16 seconds later to spark the revival and five other goals hit the back of Stars net in the next 13 minutes.Neil Hay counted in the 46th minute followed by a strike to level at 77 from Capitals' skipper Martin Cingel.Pavel Kowalczyk made it 87 in the 50th minute and Ross Dalgleish increased the visitors' advantage five minutes later.Andrej Rajcak completed the scoring in the 59th minute and Capitals' coach Scott Neil said "It was a good workout for the guys."Rival coach Roger Hunt said "We were't at fullstrength on Tuesday in Murrayfield, but I was convinced we'd put on a better show in our rink and we did."The guys performed well and this augurs well for Saturday when we host Fife Flyers in a crunch Northern League game."By Nigel Duncan Media Ltd http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=236 Wed, 27 Dec 06 9:00:00 CET Throughout the sport's history, many of the finest ice hockey players produced by these islands have hailed from Scotland. Individuals like Billy Fullerton and 'Tuck' Syme, for example, were as outstanding in their chosen sport as any hero of football or rugby. Many of these players have had fascinating stories to tell. Take Jimmy Foster's starring role in Great Britain's gold medal win at 'Hitler's Games' in 1936, or father and son duo Martin and Colin Shields, whose involvement in ice hockey has spanned five decades. The players featured in this book, all of whom are GB internationals and several are members of the British Hall of Fame, are some of the finest ever seen on Scottish ice. Recalling the ups and downs of their time in the game, author David Gordon has also gone further in telling the personal stories of the players, delving beyond the 'hockey player' tag to reveal something of the men themselves. Illustrated with many rare images, this book provides a fascinating commentary on the evolution of ice hockey in Scotland and the UK, and a lasting tribute to some of the sport's most exceptional talents. 192 pages. The players featured are Jimmy Foster, Billy Fullerton, Tommy McInroy, Joe Collins, Tuck and Tiny Syme, Johnny Carlyle, Bill Sneddon, Lawson Neil, Bill Crawford, Billy and Alastair Brennan, Scott Neil, Martin and Colin Shields.Available now from Tempus Publishing or Amazon.co.uk, 14.99. http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=234 Tue, 26 Dec 06 21:00:00 CET DUNDEE Texol Stars have a chance for revenge over Elite League side Edinburgh Capitals when the pair squareup for the secondleg of a challenge match on Tayside tomorrow (Thurs, 6.30pm).Understrength Stars were gunned down by Capitals 154 at Murrayfield in the firstleg last night (TUES), but they were missing a number of key men because of family commitments.And Stars' coach Roger Hunt said "We're anxious to put on a good show for our fans."The gap between Capitals and the understrength Scottish National Leagueoutfit was underlined in the scoreline.But Stars backup netminder John Nicol performed well despite a barrage of shots.Vince Connon, who has just turned 15, showed up well and Great Britain youth international Willie Nicolson, netted a fine goal to underline his growing potential.Capitals top marksman was teenager Ian Bowie from Kirkcaldy who plays for the Edinburgh club's under19 side.The home side were quicker to the loose puck and always had options but Hunt said "Our guys will learn from this."Thursday will be different as we'll have our impact players back and we'll ice new signing Paddy Lochi."The guys now see what they have to do to improve their fitness and their overall technical skills and we're up for the challenge on our home ice."By Nigel Duncan Media Ltd http://www.edinburgh-capitals.com/news/detail.php?id=235 Sat, 23 Dec 06 21:00:00 CET It was all to play for in this bottom of the table four pointer. In the end it was the home team that came out on top to lift themselves off the bottom of the league and in the process made it five wins from their last 6 games.After a goalless first period Rod Hinks (9th) put the home team in front at 27.47 with a goal on the powerplay. They hardly had time to celebrate as the Capitals were level within 10 seconds as Gregor Slak (11th) found a way past Peter Aubry. The home side went back in front at 37.32 with a goal from David Longstaff (11th).Try as they might to get back into the game the Capitals were dealt a hammer blow as Rod Hinks (10th) scored his second powerplay goal of the game at 46.58 to give the Vipers a two goal advantage that they held onto until the final hooter to take both pointsPeriod Scores 00, 21, 10Penalty Mins 146Shots On Peter Aubry 37 Ryan Ford 24