THE traditional War of the Roses game between the Manchester Phoenix and the Sheffield steeldogs gives the North West’s premier Ice hockey fans an exciting introduction to the start of the season.

The Rose Bowl trophy is currently held by the Yorkshire team, The Sheffield Steeldogs, after a feisty set of games between the bitter rivals in 2013.

J. Davidsons 'Men of Iron' are well prepared to bring back the trophy to its rightful home in Lancashire in the game again the Sheffield Dogs of Steel, on Sunday, September 7.

They are hoping to build of their successes of last season which saw them crowned English Premier Ice Hockey League Champions in March of this year.

CoachTony Hand has made several new additions to his already strong team adding the experience of Shaun Thompson and the local talent of young gun Declan Ryan.

Speaking at the Phoenix shirt launch, Coach Hand MBE said he believes his team are ready for the challenge of defending their EPL title but that this year’s league will be the toughest yet.

He also expressed the importance of this year taking a back seat from playing himself and focusing on the coaching so that the young British talent can mature and develop to make an impact on the Ice.

The War of the Roses game will be held at the Altrincham Ice Dome and is open to all members of the public with a 5.30pm face off.

Phoenix Fans are hoping to start the season as they mean to go on – as champions.

Discount tickets available at The Manchester Phoenix Premier Business Club, premierbusinessclub.co.uk.

For more information on the Manchester Phoenix Ice Hockey Club go to manchesterphoenix.co.uk or follow @manc_phoenix on twitter.