Kurnigins arrives to help Steeldogs’ league bid

Andre Payette’s team have proved the surprise package of the season so far, currently lying fifth in the EPL table, only eight points behind leaders Guildford Flames, and just three points behind second-placed Milton Keynes Lightning, who they defeated 2-0 on Saturday. Most teams in the top half of the 10-team league have 20 games left to play.

They have managed to stay in touch with the more affluent teams in the league despite having run with one import less than the four allowed under league rules.

But the arrival of 6ft Latvian forward Raivis Kurnigins shows owner Shane Smith and player-coach Payette are determined to push their rivals all the way in the battle for the league title.

“We have worked really hard to find the right player at the right price over the past month,” said Payette. “I have done my homework on many players and this is the right fit for us because of where we are right now.

“Our team has battled hard all year and playing an import down has made our Sheffield players stand up and be counted.”

SHEFFIELD Steelers’ player-coach Ryan Finnerty yesterday confirmed the 2011-12 season would be his last out on the ice.

The 31-year-old Canadian – whose team currently lie third in the Elite League with six games in hand on the title rivals above them – has been plagued by back problems in recent years and will return next season as coach only.