Ice hockey is not a sport where limited contact always makes for good watching.

But, says Phillips, there is a definite purpose in the back to back games with German team SC Bietigheim-Bissingen (Aug 23 and 24) and Hull Stingrays (Aug 30 and 31.)

"Everyone on our team is dying to get back on the ice and after a long summer I'm sure the fans feel the same way about watching.

"So I think we do have an obligation to put on as good a match as we can for the people paying to watch it.

"The German side is from their country's second tier, they have a much bigger budget than ours, and we will be underdogs.

"That should make us try even harder.

"As for Hull, if I am honest there is not a big rivalry or local pride thing between us and them, but both sides will be looking to set the tone for the season and show that we have both developed from last year."

The Charity Shield game at league champions Coventry Blaze (Sept 3) will "be more of a yard stick" to Sheffield's chances of a positive start to the league campaign, he said.

"I am looking forward to that one in particular" said the skipper.

Coventry boss Paul Thompson added: "The Charity Shield was a great introduction last season and it does raise a lot of money for good causes.

"Both Sheffield and ourselves really wanted to keep this going in the hockey calendar and we are delighted to be hosting it this year. It's great fun but very competitive and it should be a great last game before we get down to regular season action."

*Ex Steeler Joel Irving has pulled out of joining Newcastle Vipers, citing persoinal reasons.

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