Blackburn Hawks are preparing for two taxing matches this weekend.

On Saturday they welcome the Sheffield Scimitars to Blackburn Arena in the English Cup competition.

The teams are only one place apart in the regular league and, although Sheff-ield are currently leading in the cup, Hawks have games in hand and will be looking to take the points in their bid for top spot.

And on Sunday, the Hawks will be travelling up to Whitley Bay to face the Whitley Warriors in the Northern league.

The last time the two sides met the game had to be decided in a penalty shoot out as they are so evenly matched.

The Hawks are short of a few players. Lance Derby-shire is still recovering from the injury sustained against Billingham three weeks ago and Harry Hall and Mark Arnone are both out with wrist injuries.

Regular netminder Danny Brittle is missing due to personal commit-ments but the Hawks have secured the services of Gary Russell and it is hoped he will be able to ice this weekend.

Gary joins the Hawks on a two-way contract with Edinburgh Capitals and will be able to play whenever he is not required by the Caps.

General manager Konrad Tapp said: "I am very happy we have secured the services of Gary Russell. He is a promising netminder and should add strength to our squad.

"He has already assisted us in Northern league games and fits in well with the team."