LANCASHIRE Hawks are icing up for the performance of a lifetime at the Arena.

Forget the National League, forget the Northern League, welcome to the International Arena. Tomorrow night Hawks face the cream of British talent when they ice up against the Great Britain under 20s (face off 6pm).

And their credentials could not be any higher - 19 players from 13 different UK clubs will descend on Blackburn Arena for an action packed challenge clash. And Hawks are more than ready for the challenge.

"It's the most prestigious game we've held here for three years," says Hawks manager Mike Cockayne. "The Great Britain team really are the cream of the crop, the players who are going to be big, big stars of the future.

"We're very privileged to have them at the Arena because this is their only preparation match before they travel to Estonia for the World Championships next month.

"And you may recognise one or two of the faces in the visiting team - the national squad numbers none other than our very own Tom Burridge and Billy Price. It's a great occasion and it's a great honour to entertain the best the country has to offer." Hawks make up for losing two of their star players to the opposition by enlisting a little extra help along the way through several special "guest" players who will pit their wits against the national side.

Tonight Hawks travel to Altrincham to complete their two leg challenge clash with the Aces (5.30pm). Hawks have it all to play for, and go into the game already 8-2 up after Altrincham were on the tail end of a sound whipping last month at the Arena.

Solid defenceman Neil Abel is still on the treatment table with a broken foot and will not figure in either match.

"It's a great opportunity for us to work on our game when the pressure is off, and to play against some of the best lads around will only improve our game," says Mr Cockayne. "It will be a stern test of stamina and commitment for us, and the fans will have a rare opportunity to see some of the best players in the country. Everybody wins."

Normal ticket prices apply for Sunday's prestigious clash, £6 (adults) and £4 (concessions).

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