Telford Tigers are taking a step into the unknown

The Tigers host the first part of an NIHL Spring Cup double-header this afternoon at Telford Ice Rink before travelling to Slough tomorrow for the return.

Their opponents have recently been renamed after moving from their long-term home at Bracknell and Watkins believes that adds to the elements of uncertainty, in a tournament set up at short notice.

Telford returned to action after an 11-month lay-off with two wins over Romford Raiders last weekend. Watkins said: “It is difficult to know what to expect at the moment. Teams are adding players to their rosters and with the Elite League not running, there are a lot of guys looking for playing time.

“I’ve got a roster list for Bees but you never quite know who is going to be involved.

“It is the first time we have played in Slough for some time. It is a much tighter rink than Bracknell and I would expect a fast, physical game.”

Telford will be without defenceman Corey Goodman but Watkins is keeping the rest of the team news close to his chest.

The Tigers are scheduled to play 14 Spring Cup matches in total before the end of March and Watkins added: “Depth is likely to be key in what is such a short season and we feel we have it in our squad.

“There is a lot riding on each game in terms of the tournament but I don’t think any team is overly stressed about results right now.

“It is just great to be back behind the benches after so long without any games. It has been a release.”