BLACKBURN Hawks are determined to get their ice hockey season up and running again and general manager Graham Lomax believes this weekend's fixtures could prove the turning point.

Lomax says he is "very optimistic" ahead of the double header with Solway Sharks and Newcastle.

Although Hawks have lost their last four English National Ice Hockey League games, just one point currently separates the top six and Lomax anticipates a great home encounter with Newcastle tomorrow (face-off 6pm).

"The game with Newcastle has turned into a huge one for us," said Lomax.

"The league is very tight and we want to get things going again after a few disappointing results.

"We have been playing well, but decisions have gone against us of late.

"We just need to keep chipping away and the results we come.

"It should be a great contest and a thoroughly enjoyable evening."

Firstly however, Hawks face a trip up to Solway in the Northern League Cup competition (tonight).

The Sharks nicked the points last time out and Lomax hopes to give the northern side a difficult game: "We made too may mistakes against them last time round, but the lads are determined to make up for that. I'm sure we can give them a game if we play at our best.

Hawks have struggled with injuries and suspensions recently and Lomax admits it is frustrating when key players are missing.

"It can be frustrating when you want to ice your best side and people are unavailable for whatever reason," he said.

"David Meikle and Anthony Kinder will definitely miss out, while Harry Hall is touch and go. Aaron Davies returns tomorrow after completing his four-match ban.

"On a brighter note, Michel Loksa is now eligible to play which is great news for us. He should make his debut this weekend."