Coronavirus in Scotland: Murrayfield Racers campaign over as Scottish Ice Hockey cancels season

Murrayfield Racers have announced they’re fully behind the cancellation of the remainder of the 2019/20 season by Scottish Ice Hockey.

The decision was made in response to the ongoing coronavirus global pandemic with events being cancelled around the country.

The Racers were looking to make a run at the title with a play-off battle against Aberdeen Lynx set for March 28.

They were also set to play the Paisley Pirates in the SNL Cup final on March 21.

Though they lamented the need for the shutdown, calling it “undoubtedly sad news for everyone connected to ice hockey in the UK”, Racers completely understood the thought process and wished their supporters good health over the summer.

The Racers said in a statement wrote: “The announcement that the remainder of the season has been cancelled due to the coronavirus outbreak is undoubtedly sad news for everyone connected to ice hockey in the UK.

“However, Murrayfield Racers are fully supportive of the decision as the health and wellbeing of players, staff and supporters must come first.

“With regards to advance ticket sales for the play-off game against Aberdeen Lynx these have already been refunded.

“For anyone who has bought tickets for either the Scottish Cup Finals or the Final Four Weekend, SIH has confirmed that they have issued refunds for both events.

“We will endeavour to arrange an appropriate way of handing out the Own and Loan cup/play-off jerseys and will inform people when this has been arranged.

They added: “The club will continue to monitor developments in respect of coronavirus and will make a decision in due course regarding the Player of the Year Awards Dinner.

“The Racers would like to take this opportunity to thank our fantastic supporters who follow us in great numbers both home and away.

“The next few months are likely to be challenging, so please make sure that you look after yourselves and others.

“From a sporting perspective, we’re delighted to have been able to win two trophies this season and continue our development as a club.

“We look forward to returning to the ice when things are back to normal and we’ll be doing our utmost to bring even more silverware to Murrayfield.”