Murrayfield Racers secure return for top points scorer Callum Boyd

Callum Boyd, picturing scoring the winner against Whitley Warriors in the final of the NIHL North Cup, is returning to Murrayfield Racers for a third consecutive season. Pic: Ian Coyle

Murrayfield Racers’ main marksman Callum Boyd will aim to lead from the front again next season after joining a number of his team mates in committing his future to the club.

The free-scoring forward, who returns for a third campaign, is a key re-signing for Tony Hand’s side, having topped the Racers’ points charts last season, scoring 51 goals with 67 assists in 35 appearances in all competitions.

He becomes the 11th confirmed returnee with the Scottish National League outfit also announcing the re-signings of Ethan Reid, Michael Ireland, Liam Danskin and Archie Holmes within the past week.

Boyd, who previously featured in the Elite League for Braehead Clan and the now defunct Edinburgh Capitals, weighed in with some crucial goals during the campaign, including the winner against Whitley Warriors in the final of the NIHL North Cup.

The 26-year-old from Irvine says it was a special moment and one that was richly deserved after the team’s efforts throughout the year.

“Last season was great for us – we were really challenged in some of the games, but knew how to dig deep and get the wins,” he said.

“I’m hoping we can build on last year’s success and go for more this season. The effort the boys put in to play for each other like we did was class and I can’t wait for more of it this year.

“The cup final down at Whitley was one to remember. We battled until the last second for each other and it paid off – that’s the kind of team I want to be part of!

“Being the one to score the game winner just topped it off – it made the victory so much sweeter after getting it tight all game from the Whitley fans.”

Boyd’s overtime goal against the Warriors sealed a deserved 7-6 aggregate victory in front of a packed house at Hillheads.

The first leg attracted a bumper crowd to Murrayfield Ice Rink and the Racers were roared on by a large travelling contingent in the reverse fixture.

Boyd believes the club’s supporters make a huge difference to the team and he is looking forward to playing in front of them again next term.

“Our fans got even louder last season – seeing the numbers grow and everyone enjoy the game supporting us just makes us push that little harder and sometimes that’s what it comes down to,” he added.

“The players keep each other going, but having the backing from the fans like we did – I can’t thank them enough for their support over the past couple of seasons.

“I’m looking forward to the season ahead, whenever it may start, and do bits again with the boys!”