Hull Pirates’ Player/Coach Dominic Osman believes his team are on the up after the import changes he made following their poor start to the season.

Osman released netminder Jon Baston, defenceman Jan Platil and forward Mario Mjelleli, replacing them with Marty Raitums (above) and Finnish forwards Pasi Salonen and Tommi Laine.

All three made an impact as Pirates sealed their first regulation win in the EPL against Basingstoke Bison last weekend.

“We brought Marty in to do a job and he did it,” said Osman. “He came up with some spectacular saves but also with the routine ones that we needed and that’s what happened. The rest of the guys took their lead from him.”

Pirates’ Finnish duo have taken a little time to find their feet, but after being put on the same line they’re now showing their quality.

Osman added: “They had another great night on Sunday. They have been playing solid and they are continuing to impress and they go and go and go. That’s what we need from them, they are doing a great job.

“They play well defensively and are good all-round players, but have the ability to bring offense that we needed.”

(Image permission: Arthur Foster)