ELLIOTT Andrews will be available to ice for the Medway-based Invicta Dynamos ice hockey team in their league game with Swindon and cup clash with Milton Keynes this weekend.

His 5+game penalty for boarding in Sunday’s match against Isle of Wight has been reduced to 5+10 on appeal so the British forward will not be banned.

While Dynamos fans and players are coming to terms with failure on the signing front, Milton Keynes are bathing in the glory of another recent acquisition, one of the greats of British ice hockey over the past decade, Claude Dumas.

The French-Canadian is renowned for his uncanny ability to put the puck in the net and he may be just the boost MK need as they battle with Peterborough to take Invicta’s league and play-off crowns.

The Quebec-born striker is one of the most naturally talented players in the British game and his transition into the MK team will be helped by the fact that he has played alongside several of the Lightning players previously in his career.

Ominously for the Mos, an understandably delighted player coach Nick Poole said: “In the past we have relied on the first-line for goals.

“Now with Claude we will ensure two offensively strong lines as well as a solid and more than capable third line.”

After hearing the news Mos captain Phil Chard said: “They have just signed probably the best guy to ever play British ice hockey.

“It's frustrating for us because we worked so hard trying to get someone in without success. Dumas has not played this season and has been working in Telford, which shows Milton Keynes' catchment area is so much bigger than ours. He may not be match fit, but he's still a very talented player.”

The Dynamos’ other opposition this weekend, Swindon, may have dropped out the title reckoning - the best finish they can now achieve is second place - but Chard said: “They usually prove tough opposition on their home ice.

“But we have everyone fit and will try and play two lines to start with and go from there.

“Motivation now we can no longer win the league or cup is playing well in the run-up to the play-offs and players wanting to prove their worth so they get contracts renewed in the summer.”

* The Dynamos Supporters Club is now booking for the following away matches. Swindon (Feb 8) departs Ice Bowl noon (members £22.50, non-members £25), Telford (Feb 15) departs Ice Bowl 11.30am (members’ £28, non-members £30).

Prices include travel costs and match ticket. To book see Nina by Skate Hire on a match night during the period breaks or call Barry Stubbs on 07958 535067 or e-mail at travel@invictadynamos.co.uk.