Ice Hockey: Ruggles roars as Racers struggle

THIS may be the season for familial affection but David Graham's team, Nottingham Panthers, showed little towards his brother Peter who guards the Billingham Bombers goal (to keep things in the family, David is Panthers' netminder), writes Steve Pinder.

Panthers won 10-4 and there will doubtless be some interesting discussions over the seasonal fare at the Graham gathering since the scoreline made the goals conceded difference exactly 100. In fairness, Bombers were only icing two imports and tied the first period 1-1 before collapsing.

Peterborough Pirates finally returned home to their newly opened rink after 77 days' absence. In front of a disappointing crowd of 500, they opened the scoring against Durham Wasps and tied the first period 3-3. But lack of training told and Wasps won 9-5. The new ice is said to be soft and slow but at least the infamous slope has gone.

Figures were slightly better the next day for Sheffield Steelers' visit. Nearly 1,000 turned up and the Pirates goaltender John Tague kept the score down to 1-2 before rustiness told once more and Steelers won 10-4.

Cardiff Devils enjoyed the arrival of Murrayfield Racers, the side they have lost to twice too recently for Welsh liking. Devils made amends in style, Hilton Ruggles showing his worth after a quiet start to the season with five goals all told in the 8-4 win. On their way home, Racers had to play Durham Wasps and probably wished they had not had to stop, losing 10-5 to their rapidly improving hosts.