Article by Peter Ryan
Cardiff Fire will take to the ice this Sunday. They will welcome the Swindon Wildcats 2 to the Vindico Arena, as preparations for a new season ramp up.
It is set to be a fascinating matchup, as it will be Cardiff's first time on the ice this season. The team will look to sharpen up, get ready and hit the ground running as they prepare to write a new chapter. Wildcats 2 will provide a strong test for the Fire.
Last season
The Cardiff side will be in pursuit of improvement heading into a new season after a disappointing 2025/26 campaign. Cardiff finished eighth in the NIHL One South, recording a single win. Even though the team didnโt achieve the results they wanted to on ice. Last season produced moments that will linger in the memory for a while. A special night in March marked the sideโs 10th anniversary. The club's steadfast support was on full display that night, as nearly a thousand people headed to Vindico Arena. A new season brings an opportunity for new beginnings, with a squad that is hungry and talented. Combined with a passionate fan base, everything is set for a fantastic year.
The squad
A squad that is filled with talent; there are many reasons to be excited for the upcoming season. Brothers Rhys and Owen Smetham have come into the squad. Both players are dangerous attacking threats. Over the course of 86 National League games, Rhys scored 56 points. Owen played 36 and tallied 20 points. They have proven they can be lethal; it will be brilliant to see them suit up for the fire.
Craig Thurston brings a wealth of experience and scoring ability. A player who knows how to put the puck in the net. In previous years, he has amassed 80 goals in a NIHL season. The team has tremendous talent in its ranks. Those competitors will be hunting for impact.
Swindon Wildcats 2
Swindon Wildcats 2 are an effective team. Last season, the Wildcats were sixth in the NIHL 1 South. Tallying eight wins and 18 losses, they scored 80 goals but conceded 111. Their season ended with a quarterfinal loss, and, like the Fire, they will be looking for results this season. Both teams have made changes and will look to move up the table; it has all the makings of an entertaining pre-season clash.
The Fire are to go out and perform. Ready to leave it all out on the ice, searching for a result; what a great game to kickstart the season.
Clickย HEREย to buy your tickets - The puck drops for pre-season at 6:45pm vs Swindon Wildcats 2 this Sunday 13th September at the Vindico Arena.
Photos by James Assinder
