The Footscray Pirates Ice Hockey Club fell short in their comeback match on Saturday. 73040 Picture: EMILY LANE
By Liam Twomey
THE Footscray Pirates Ice Hockey Club is officially back in business, after taking to the ice for the first time in 25 years on Saturday.
With more than 50 loyal fans sitting in the stands decked out in Pirates supporter gear, the team received an almighty roar when they took to the ice for their clash.
However, there was no chance to ease back into things after a quarter of a century break, as they were drawn against last year’s premiers the Devils from the Demons Ice Hockey Club.
Against tough opposition the Pirates fought hard throughout, but eventually succumbed to their more seasoned opponents 5-2.
Pirates president Peter Schreppel said it was a great day for the club despite not coming away with the win.
“It was good, everyone is in good spirits, we didn’t get any injuries and we are looking forward to our next game,” he said.
“We have got photos of all of the fans that were there. There must have been 50-60 people there, kids dressed up as pirates; it was really good and they were cheering the whole way through.
Darly Glewis showed why he was recruited to the club from the Bendigo Raiders, scoring both Pirates goals.
“When we scored the two goals our supporters nearly cheered the roof off the Oakleigh Ice Skating Rink,” Schreppel said.
Despite the loss, there were a number of good signs to come out of the performance that indicate a successful season could be on the way.
“Everybody got a run, we had more than enough people to play and everyone was as keen as mustard. The older guys who hadn’t skated for a while represented the club really well. We are looking for our first win now,” Schreppel said. “It will just take a few weeks for the boys to sort out their legs and their lines, who they play with and how they play together. From there, it will all come together.
“A win from the Footscray Pirates is imminent. Once we have it, there is no looking back and hopefully we can take out the championship.”
