BLACKBURN Hawks are confident ahead of tonight's English Ice Hockey League clash at Birmingham Rockets.

After arresting a run of four league and cup defeats last weekend, player-coach Bobby Haig was in buoyant mood as he prepared the troops for the trip down the M6 in search of two vital points.

And despite losing to them in the English Cup in mid September by the odd goal in 13, Haig has few worries.

"Birmingham have lost four of their best players already, so we're back on level ground," he said.

"And they have no more money so there is nothing they can do. We should win the game."

Free-scoring Craig Sharman has rejoined the Hawks after an unhappy spell with Altrincham Aces and the return of Michael Brunton from injury adds further strength to the Hawks.

"Everybody came to training on Thursday night, including Brunton who had a skate and felt fine," said Haig. "Some of the lads have work commitments so we are taking a squad of about 14 or 15."

"We're also looking at a couple of players with the possibility of signing them," he added.

"They came to training last night and something should happen on that in the near future. Watch this space!"