Milton Keynes Kings 13 Blackburn Hawks 4

HAWKS hopes of lifting the English Premier League suffered a major setback last night against a team everyone is tippping to take the title.

A weakened Hawks side, short of key players through injury and unavailability, ran out of steam after giving the Kings a run for their money in the first period.

The Kings had 66 attempts on Barry Hollyhead's goal while Hawks managed just 26 in reply.

Kings Canadian import Dan Pracher was the tormentor in chief with four goals and three assists.

Period scores: 3-2, 6-1, 4-1. Scoresheet: Brian Smith 1+1, Andrew Dickson 1+3, Lamonte Polet 1+0, James Beale 1+0, Wayne Slater 0+1, Bobby Haig 0+2.

Hawks will be looking to get back on track tomorrow night when they entertain Swindon at the Arena (face off 6pm).

They will be looking to put out a stronger squad with Gordon Whyte returning although Tom Burridge will need a late check.

Burridge was forced to sit out last night's trip due to a shoulder injury. There is little chance of either Jim Pennycook or Matt Jones, both long-term absentees, being available.

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