Delight for Telford Tigers as Jonathan Weaver stays
Telford Tigers have secured the services of Great Britain defenceman Jonathan Weaver for the rest of this season – and next season – ahead of tonight's trip to face Sheffield Steeldogs.
The two teams meet just four days after their previous encounter, won 5-4 by Tigers, who are still six points clear at the top of the English Premier League.
But after the recent departures of a number of players, the retention of Weaver until 2018 will be a relief to Tiger fans.
Weaver is, however, likely to be missing tonight after suffering an injury against Manchester Phoenix last month.
Head coach,Tom Watkins, said: "I am continuing to search for new recruits. We might be a bit short in Sheffield. There is a sickness bug in the team as well, so some of the guys didn't skate during the day on Tuesday.
Defenceman Dan Scott has left Tigers with immediate effect as the club restructures. Watkins added:
"Dan has been superb for Telford Tigers, both on and off the ice, over the last few years. He leaves with our best wishes."
and thanks for contributions to the club."
"I had hoped to bring in a short-term import, but that didn't happen and there are a couple of short-term Brits, so we'll see what happens."
Telford won Sunday's game against the Steeldogs 5-4, extending their unbeaten start to the season at home.
It could be a different prospect in Yorkshire tonight, however, with Sheffield having taken the Tigers to penalty shoot-out last month.
Watkins added: "We'll have some guys missing, of course, but at the end of the day it is another game in a very tough league.
"The routine is always different when you play midweek, but one you get to the rink it is the same as any other game.
"It has been hard to plan for games, as we've been non-stop trying to improve the situation we have here.
"It is a process and it can be very hard to make things happen quickly. It all depends on of the situations of individual players.
"It's very stressful, but you have to be patient and not get ahead of yourself."
Weaver is, however, still likely to be missing tonight after suffering an injury against Manchester Phoenix last month.
Tonight's meeting with Sheffield Steeldogs faces off at 7.30pm.
