AFTER two weekends of pulsating cup action, Blackburn Hawks get down to the bread and butter of the league season with back-to-back matches home and away.

First up, it's action at high noon today as the Hawks travel to the North East to face Sunderland Chiefs, last season's 'whipping boys', who finished bottom of the English Ice Hockey League North table.

Last weekend, Sunderland opened their season with a 9-2 defeat at home to Nottingham Lions.

The match, which will be held at the Newcastle Arena, has a noon face-off. Apart from Jason Hewitt, who has left to pursue his hockey ambitions with London Racers, Hawks player coach Bobby Haig expects to have a full strength squad to pick from.

He said: "After beating Sheffield in the cup last week and running Swindon so close, I think we have a great chance of doing well in the league this season.

"The lads were really disappointed to lose to a late goal after leading Swindon, who put out a really strong side. I can't fault their effort and attitude, so I'm looking forward to getting some points in the league."

The Hawks play their first home game of the new campaign tomorrow night, when old rivals Kingston Jets provide the opposition.

The Jets were defeated 7-3 by Billingham in their league opener and will be anxious to prove a point against the Hawks.

Sunday's match at the Arena starts at 6pm. Doors open for spectators at 5.15 pm.