Supporters of Milton Keynes Lightning can add another two important dates to their diaries, with the news that the scheduling of the club's EPL Cup semi finals against the Sheffield Steeldogs has been confirmed.
 
Nick Poole's team will travel to Sheffield for the first leg on Wednesday 8 February, with a face-off time of 7.30pm. Then the Thunderdome - which has proved a fortress for Lightning with some impressive attendances in recent weeks - will play host to Andre Payette's  Steeldogs for the decisive second leg on Thursday 16 February, with the puck dropping at 7.30pm.
 
Nick Poole said he hoped Lightning supporters would back the team if they could for the important midweek home fixture.  "We absolutely understand that sometimes midweek fixtures aren't easy to make the time for, but we'd love to see as many fans as possible at the home leg of the semi-finals - it's always fantastic playing in front of a big, noisy crowd - it really does give us that extra edge.  And if any supporters can make it to the away leg then we'd love to have their support there, too.

"We're in a really strong league position now and have had some great results recently, so obviously we're hoping to continue that run in the Cup competition.  The EPL cup is the one title that's eluded the Lightning over the years and we want to put that right!"
 
Discounted advance tickets will be available from the Planet Ice Arena in Milton Keynes during public skating sessions from Monday 13 February until the close of business on Wednesday 15 February. Doors open at the Arena at 6.30pm on matchnight, with both teams on the ice warming up from 6.45pm. Discounted advance tickets will be available from the Planet Ice Arena in Milton Keynes during public skating sessions from Monday 13 February until the close of business on Wednesday 15 February. Doors open at the Arena at 6.30pm on matchnight, with both teams on the ice warming up from 6.45pm.