Streatham Redskins have announced the arrival of Stuart Bates as they prepare for two crunch ties in just two days against table-topping Chelmsford.
Before signing for the Redskins, Bates, 27, came through the ranks of his hometown club Telford, becoming a regular after his season debut in 2002.
“I first worked with Stuart in the England U16 programme and he played really well for me then so I’m delighted he’s re-located to London,” said Streatham Redskins Head Coach Warren Rost.
“It’s also important that he is living relatively local now because it’s not just about this season but the seasons to come and I’m sure he’s going to prove himself a valuable asset to the club in the years to come”
The Redskins come into Saturday’s home and Sunday’s away fixtures in mixed form with only one win in three, drawing their last outing drawing 3-3 away to Solent Devils.
Streatham will however look to their last home game for signs of improvement, scoring six goals in thirty minutes to beat London Raiders 6-5 in their last outing at Streatham Ice Rink.
The Chieftains visit South London on impressive form winning their last four league games including a 6-1 victory against Invicta Dynamos last weekend.
Chelmsford came out 7-4 victors the last time the sides met in the National Ice Hockey League South On November 1.
Streatham have an almost full strength side as only goalie Aaron Taylor is due to miss the game due to concussion.
Picture courtesy of Rick Webb, with thanks
