Raiders will pose tough test for Dynamos

THE Medway-based Dynamos ice hockey team face another stern test in the East National Premier League this Sunday as Romford Raiders visit the Gillingham Ice Bowl. Although Romford were not fancied as title challengers before the league started they have begun well.

After last week's tense but exciting win over current champions Swindon Lynx, Invicta need to assert their dominance because, if Romford win, all the top teams will have taken points off each other.

The Raiders will be coming to Medway on a high after scoring an amazing 25 goals last weekend, thrashing Haringey Greyhounds 17-1 and Nottingham Lions 8-0. With defenseman Ben Pitchley absent this weekend and the Romford's leading point scorer Dan Cabby likely to be under suspension after being handed a gross misconduct penalty last weekend, coach Shaun McFadyen has moved swiftly to plug any gaps in Raiders' line-up.

They signed four players in 72 hours during the week, all of whom are expected to be available to make their Raiders' debuts on Sunday against Invicta. The biggest name is Timo Kauhanen who becomes a Raider again. His arrival coincides with the departure of Noel Burkitt, who scored five against Haringey.

Romford have also agreed terms with netminder Chris Douglas who backstopped the team to play-off success last season but was thought to have joined Haringey. The former Greyhound James Grimstead also returns and in a whirlwind move they agreed terms with Anthony Child also from Haringey. Among other new Raiders is Canadian defenceman Andrew Fox who arrived last weekend to replace Colin O'Hara. Fox arrived in Romford on the personal recommendation of former Raiders' hero Andy Heinze and at 6ft 1in and 200lbs he also brings some size to the Romford defence and a glowing reputation from college hockey.

Face off is 5.15pm with entry at £4 adults, £2 children or £10 for a family of four ticket.