Murrayfield Racers visit Kirkcaldy Kestrels on Sunday aiming to book their place in the final of the Scottish Cup.
Joel Gautschi’s hat-trick in the first leg was the highlight of the Racers’ 6-0 victory, but they will be taking nothing for granted at Fife Ice Arena.
The Racers still have plenty to play for as they bid to claim a clean sweep of trophies in the Scottish National League.
The team already have the SNL title in the bag after ending the regular league season unbeaten and they are eager to add more silverware over the next few weeks.
The Racers’ success to date has been a collective effort, with the coaches and players ably supported by a team of committed off-ice volunteers.
Equipment manager Fraser Reynolds has played a key role behind the scenes, helping to take the stress out of the pre-game preparations for the team. He says that the title run-in was tense for everyone.
“Once they get on the ice there’s little I can do and we had to dig deep a couple of time to get the results,” he said.
“From the bench that can be quite nerve-wracking even when you have full faith in the quality of the team and the preparation that goes into it.
“However, we showed real champion spirit to go unbeaten and that was fantastic to be a part of. We have a really professional outlook in the team and the off-ice staff and I think that really showed.
“We have lots of experience both on the ice and off the ice, so I’ve learnt a lot over the past few months.
“There is a real drive to do everything professionally – it makes it a great environment to work in.”
In addition to the league and Scottish Cup, the Racers are also chasing success in the Stuart Robertson Cup and SNL play-offs.
The team remain unbeaten in Scottish competitions this season and their rivals will undoubtedly be desperate to end that record if they can. Reynolds is eagerly anticipating the challenges ahead.
“We know that the season is far from over and we are determined to keep performing at the level we have to try and capture an amazing quadruple,” he added.
“We were back on the ice with a full squad practice twice this week and it was business as usual behind the scenes making sure the boys are ready to go this weekend.
“No-one is letting up in their efforts to bring more success to the club and the fans. We know how tight most games have been against the Kestrels and, even with a lead, it is never easy to go to Fife so we’re expecting another tough test.”
(Image permission: Racers Media)
