BLACKBURN Hawks have pulled off a major coup by signing Scottish international netminder Matthew Michie.

Hawks had been scouring the area for a replacement following the departure of Jonathan Tindall and they eventually bagged their man this week thanks to a tip-off from former Hawks favourite Bobby Haig.

Michie, who has also turned out for the Dundee Tigers and the Dundee Stars as well as Camperdown and Perth Cobras, will go straight into the squad for tomorrow’s English National Ice Hockey League clash with rivals Nottingham Lions.

General manager Andy Slater said: “Matthew trained with us last week and met the team which also gave us the opportunity to have a good look at him in action. The coaches were very impressed with his performance and attitude and they feel that he will make an instant impact, strengthening the position vacated by Jonathan.

“We already have two promising netminders, but we felt we needed some experience and Matthew’s arrival will only help the others to develop further.”

Hawks will be hoping the Scot makes an immediate impact, starting against the Lions, as they look for a change of fortunes after six straight defeats.

“This certainly will be a tough game,” admitted Slater.

“The Lions are always difficult to break down and we are short of a fair few players as well.

“Rick Bentham and Aaron Davies are both serving match bans while Anthony Kinder is still out with his ankle injury.

“Adam Leaver is on holiday and Tim McKay may also be unavailable so it is very much a case knuckling down and getting on with it.

“Fortunately we have the players to do just that and we will be sure to make it as difficult as possible for Nottingham.”