Panthers bare their claws

Ice Hockey

Nottingham Panthers, the Benson and Hedges Cup holders, got off to a flying start in the defence of their trophy, beating a weakened Peterborough Pirates 7-2, but most eyes were on the new clubs joining the fray, writes Steve Pinder.

Whitley Warriors are now Newcastle Warriors, but are still playing out of their old rink until the Newcastle Arena is ready in November. They trailed Paisley Pirates 4-2 at the end of the first period, but came back to make it 6-6 eight minutes before the end.

Durham Wasps, who will join Warriors in Newcastle, but at the new arena being built by Sir John Hall, dismissed Milton Keynes Kings 10-4 on Saturday and beat Humberside Hawks 6-2 on Sunday.