Thursday: Giants head into Innsbruck

Photo: Mika Kylmäniemi / Tappara Tampere

Belfast Giants play their final road game of the Champions Hockey League Group Stage in Innsbruck tonight in a game they'll likely need to get something out of to keep their hopes of reaching the next round alive.

On opening weekend, Adam Keefe's men pushed Lukko Rauma all the way before eventually losing out 3-1. A day later, they were brushed aside 6-0 by defending champions Tappara Tampere.

"Much like the Giants, HC Innsbruck were founded less than 30 years ago, however, despite that, they have recorded some fantastic achievements in their short history," said Keefe. "We look forward to bringing our brand of hockey to Austria against an exciting Innsbruck team."

Innsbruck were the surprise package of the ICEHL last season, ending the regular season third before going out in the playoff Quarter-Finals. Their team includes former Coventry defenseman Nathanael Halbert. "Die Haie" beat Geneva in their opening CHL game 5-2, before heading on the road to Biel-Bienne and going down 6-1.

"I expect a very intense game. Both sides will be looking to win points. I imagine a great fan base from Belfast will be making the trip so we will need to be ready early," said Innsbruck Head Coach Mitch O'Keefe. "They have a great history since Adam Keefe has taken over and it will be for sure a playoff-style game."