ICE HOCKEY: Blackburn Hawks switch into play-off mode this weekend as once again arch-rivals Altrincham Aces get proceedings underway when they visit the Arena on Sunday.

The Hawks have met the Aces six times home and away in three separate competitions this season and have a significant edge with three wins two draws and a close defeat.

The aggregate goals are 45-36 in Hawks' favour, but the games are usually close, hard-fought typical derby matches.

Apart from valuable play-off points, there will be a lot of pride at stake on Sunday night, no quarter will be asked and certainly none given. Face-off at the Arena is at 6pm.