Paisley Pirates brought their 2025/26 league season to a close with a narrow but deserved 1–0 victory over Edinburgh Capitals in a hard-fought contest at Murrayfield.
In unusual circumstances, the fixture was played in Edinburgh despite being designated as a Pirates home game, due to restricted ice availability. That did little to disrupt the Paisley side, who produced a disciplined and determined performance to see out the win against the newly crowned league champions.
The decisive moment came through Marty Simpson, whose finish proved to be the difference in a game where chances were at a premium. Both sides battled throughout, but it was the Pirates who showed the greater cutting edge when it mattered most.
At the other end, goaltender Daniel McGowan delivered one of his standout displays of the season. Facing sustained pressure, he turned away all 38 shots to secure a shutout and earn Man of the Match honours.
Speaking after the game, McGowan said: “It was a really tough game, we knew we’d have to battle hard to get a result and the team dug in and got a well deserved win.”
The performance capped off the league campaign on a positive note, with the club highlighting both McGowan’s contribution and the collective effort across the squad in what was a resolute team display from start to finish.
Paisley Pirates also paid tribute to their travelling support, who made the journey to Murrayfield, and extended their thanks to Edinburgh Capitals for their hospitality. The Pirates also congratulated the Capitals on securing the league title.
With the regular season now complete, attention quickly turns to the play-offs, where the Pirates will look to carry their momentum into the knockout stages.
The quarter-final tie has been confirmed, with Paisley Pirates set to face Kirkcaldy Kestrels over two legs in early April.
The first leg will take place on Saturday 4th April at Braehead Arena, with a 6:30pm face-off. The return leg is scheduled for Sunday 5th April at Fife Ice Arena, starting at 6:00pm.
The Braehead clash will mark the final chance for supporters to watch the Pirates on home ice this season, with any further fixtures set to be played at neutral or away venues.
Tickets for the home leg will be available on the door, with cash payments only, or can be purchased in advance through the Fanbase app.
After a strong finish to the league campaign, the Pirates now head into the play-offs with confidence, knowing that another performance like this could see them take a significant step towards silverware.
Photos (by Al Goold):
