Hockey: McSorley still keen on link with Devils.

Byline: Terry Phillips Chief Sports Writer 

CHRIS McSorley is still keen to run the Cardiff Devils team in the Findus British National Ice Hockey league next season.

Canadian McSorley, the Great Britain coach and in charge of newly-promoted Swiss Elite League team Geneva, has been interested in becoming involved in running the Devils team for some time.

He was unable to reach agreement with owner Bob Phillips, but now Cardiff businessmen Martin Barton and Andy Temple look likely to take over within the next two or three weeks.

Phillips has agreed to sell rink lease-holding company Reds (Wales) Properties Ltd and the deal could be completed within two or three weeks.

``It's great news that there is progress which could mean a better future for Cardiff ice hockey,'' said McSorley from his home in North America. ``I am still interested in becoming involved with Cardiff Devils and maybe running the team. I will be having a chat with Martin Barton.

``Whatever happens, though, I wish the Cardiff Devils fans and the proposed new owners every success.''

Barton and Temple aim to complete the takeover as quickly as possible and will then decide on team matters as soon as possible.

Nearly 200 people have already signed up and pledged to buy season tickets for the first season under Barton and Temple.

Current owner Bob Phillips, who has agreed to contract details in a series of meetings with Barton, is set to leave the rink completely and within the next few weeks.

Attendances plummetted last season as ice hockey fans refused to watch the team and staged vigils outside every home match.

Former player Shannon Hope helped broker the deal and will be involved with the new owners, but not on the playing side. It is hoped several former players will return to sign for Cardiff.

Chartered accountant Barton has set season ticket prices at a level he believes will at least keep losses at a minimum. The Devils have always lost money, including almost pounds 1m when they won the Superleague title in 1997.

``We are looking for fans to buy their season tickets early and assist us in the first year back,'' said Temple.

The potential new owners are hoping to attract between 500 and 600 season ticket holders at least.

The takeover includes the name, trademark and Cardiff Devils logos and Barton said: ``Bob Phillips is quite happy with what was put before him. We should know in a fortnight. It could be signed, sealed and sorted in that time.''

Further details on season tickets can be obtained from the potential new owners on 029 2048 1471 or 2075 3561. Prices range from pounds 250, to pounds 400 on the balcony for adults, while Barton said he would honour adverts put out by the current management offering free season tickets for children who have collected vouchers from the South Wales Echo.

CAPTION(S):

ON THE ATTACK; Wales' Josh Smith in action for Wales in hockey's Men's Senior Celtic Cup in Cardiff at the weekend. PICTURE: Andrew Orchard