By Calum Wilson
Saturday Night Challenge in the Capital
Final Score: Edinburgh Capitals 6 – 2 Paisley Pirates
The Pirates made the journey to Murrayfield on Saturday evening, 31 January 2026, knowing they were facing one of the toughest tests in the league, and for much of the contest they rose to the occasion.
Paisley started brightly and matched the Capitals stride for stride through a hard-fought opening two periods. Goals from Chris Turley and Bari McKenzie ensured the sides were locked at 2–2 heading into the third period, with the Pirates producing some of their most composed hockey of the season in spells.
However, the final ten minutes proved decisive. As fatigue began to show, the Capitals found a way to break through and pulled away late on, leaving the Pirates frustrated with a final scoreline that didn’t fully reflect the balance of play across the majority of the game.
Between the pipes, Daniel McGowan delivered an exceptional performance, producing a series of high-quality saves to keep Paisley in contention throughout. His efforts were rightly recognised as he was named Man of the Match, with the award accepted on his behalf by Chris Turley, pictured.
Despite the disappointment of the result, there were plenty of positives for the Pirates to take into Sunday’s fixture.
Sunday Response: Pirates Fire on All Cylinders
Final Score: Paisley Pirates 6 – 0 North Ayrshire Wild
True to form, the Pirates wasted no time in responding. Back on home ice on Sunday night, they delivered a commanding performance that combined intensity, structure, and clinical finishing.
Paisley set the tone early, applying sustained pressure and dominating possession. Goals from Magnus Wrottesley, Craig Peacock (three), Bari McKenzie, and Ryan Campbell capped off a performance that saw the Pirates control large spells of the game and limit the Wild to opportunities on the outside.
The defensive structure was equally impressive, with disciplined zone coverage and strong face-off performances contributing to a deserved shutout in goal.
Jay Herd (pictured below), was named Man of the Match following a tireless display that exemplified the work rate and physical commitment shown throughout the lineup.
Coach’s Reaction
Head Coach Ian Turley highlighted the importance of the response following Saturday’s defeat:
“It was important to bounce back after last night. I didn’t think we played too badly on Saturday, but the last ten minutes we certainly weren’t there. To come back tonight and put up a scoreline like that is always positive.”
Turley also praised both sides of the contest and the opposition’s efforts:
“We had a lot of shots early on and, to be fair, their goaltender made some really good saves. Credit where credit’s due. They’ve got some young guys with pace, but tonight our guys just stepped it up.”
A key focus area paid dividends on the night:
“Face-offs are something we’ve been working on, especially in the offensive zone. You can see what we’re trying to put in place now. Defensively, I think we probably won around 90% of the draws tonight. The guys are listening and executing.”
Success Across the Organisation
It was a successful weekend across the Pirates setup, with the Lightning Pirates Under-19s also recording a strong victory over North Ayrshire Wild Under-19s.
Netminder Jake Reilly enjoyed a standout weekend, featuring in the SNL game without conceding a goal before returning to Under-19s duty, where he was named Man of the Match — a testament to the depth and development within the club.
The Pirates now turn their attention back to league action as they head on the road next weekend to face the Kirkcaldy Kestrels in Fife. Full fixture and travel information will be released early in the week.
