LANCASHIRE Hawks are looking for a "double Scotch" to lift spirits this weekend.

A home and away showdown with Paisley Pirates provides the toughest of tests, but manager Mike Cockayne believes it could raise his team and bring around a much-needed change in fortunes.

"Our immediate aim is to turn the corner in terms of results and, while that is easier said than done, we must retain our self belief. No one at the Arena would try to pretend that things have all gone to plan this season - it's quite clear that they haven't, but we must forget about what's gone on and concentrate on the task ahead.

"First things first and we know how difficult a double header with Paisley will be. But we've beaten them before this season and we can beat them again."

Both matches - away in Scotland tonight and back at the Arena on Sunday (face off 6pm) - are in the Northern League. The Pirates currently stand second behind leaders Fife Flyers with Hawks one of the bottom.

"The league positions would suggest we've little chance, but that is not how we see it. We aren't looking for ready made excuses or adopting a negative attitude. The opposite in fact. We know that we must start winning games, and soon. We may not be in a position to challenge for the main honours, but we can at least try and win back some pride."

Last time the Pirates came to Blackburn they were on the wrong end of a shock defeat, Hawks emerging triumphant by 8-4 in the Christmas Cup in early December.

Hawks have no new injury problems and will again be looking to Canadian sharpshooter Adrian Lononaco to provide the fire power. But much will rest on how Hawks' defenders cope with Pirates' free-scoring strikers.

Hawks officials, working all week to land new recruits, today still held out hope of listing at least one new face on the weekend team sheet.

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