BLACKBURN Arena is preparing itself for the biggest ice hockey match to hit the town in years.

Crack English outfit Manchester Storm are to stage a plum European Cup tie against Swedish champions Brynas Tigers there on Tuesday, November 23.

Storm's usual home venue, the MEN Arena, is unavailable that night due to a prior pop concert booking and the international ice hockey authorities have insisted the date must stand.

Storm's assistant coach Daryl Lipsey is not at all worried about the change: "We have trained at Blackburn many times over the years. Moving the tie there won't be a problem, the Swedes are the ones with the problem. Our fans will fill the place and create a great atmosphere, so I think our opponents might be a little apprehensive about it."

Tickets will go on sale at both Arenas in October, price details to be announced shortly.

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