EIHL fixture release: Four key dates for Edinburgh Capitals fans

The Edinburgh Capitals will be looking to rebuild following a poor season. Photographer Ian Georgeson

Following a mixed season for the Capitals last year, we look at some of the key dates on the fixture list that all Caps fans should take note of.

1-Edinburgh v Dundee Stars (11/09/16)

Capital fans will go into the season with a sense of optimism with a number of new signings and of course, a new coach. Having finished bottom of all standings last year, this fixture in the Challenge Cup represents the first chance for fans to see new players in action as well as cheer on the new coach. Although some see the competition as a distraction from the league, a good win on home ice could do wonders for confidence within the club. This is certainly not one for Caps fans to miss.

2-Edinburgh v Manchester Storm (25/09/16)

The newest addition to the league will come to Murrayfield having survived their first season in the EIHL. Brought in after the Hull Stingrays folded, Manchester Storm were playing catch up to a number of teams and if it wasn’t for the poor form of the Caps after their decent start last year, they could have finished the season bottom. In the end however, it was the Caps that faded away finishing 19 points off the Storm. A victory over the Storm on home ice could signal a rebirth for the Caps and a large home support could make the difference. 9th v 10th last season is not to be missed.

3-Edinburgh v Nottingham Panthers (18/03/17)

While this match may not have as intense a rivalry as a game against other sides, especially the likes of rivals Fife and Braehead, this game is unmissable for the most die-hard sports fan. Scotland take on Italy in the Six Nations at 12:30 in Murrayfield, and you can complete a day of sport watching the Caps taking on the Panthers. Coming towards the business end of the season, this could be a real unmissable game, especially if there are playoff spots in the mind of either side.

4-Edinburgh v Braehead Clan (26/03/17)

The Caps have upset their Western neighbours many a time, perhaps most famously in the last few games of the 2014-15 season (effectively ending Braehead’s title bid) and a Capitals/Clan game is certainly not one to miss. With this being the last game of the season, the game could be a real blood and thunder affair on home ice.