Champions Blaze wary of threat from new-look Muskies

Members of last year's championship-winning Boroughmuir Blaze side. Left to right: Sean Cole, Eoghann Dover, John Browne, Sean Nealon-Lino, Lewis Crofts, and Sam Stott. Picture: Ian Rutherford

Muskies have their experienced club and international coach John Grant back at the helm and he will be sure of a warm welcome from a Blaze team who look at least as strong as last season, with the likes of Eoghann Dover, Tomas Cicenas and Sam Stott back.

Ironically Muskies, under previous coach Ross Bain, inflicted an upset league defeat on Blaze at the Crags last season.

“It’s great to start the new season against Tayside with John Grant coaching them,” said Blaze coach Simon Turner, no doubt mindful of what happened last time.

“John was helpful to Blaze and me personally when we started our youth national league team 12 years ago.

“There seems to be a growing spirit around the league this season and we’re looking forward to being part of it.”

Previous champions Falkirk Fury, who beat Blaze in a pre-season friendly, are also at home tonight to Glasgow Storm at their new venue at Grangemouth Sports Complex (8pm) and could include GB cap Ali Fraser, who has still to secure a new pro contract in Europe.

Newly promoted Stirling Knights host St Mirren at the Peak Centre (8pm) while a much-changed Edinburgh University, without most of last season’s stars but still coached by Danny Costello, will face Dunfermline Reign at the Pleasance tomorrow at 7.30pm.

Blaze women will host Muskies women at the Crags at 1.20pm also tomorrow.