ROB Wilson believes he has solved two of the biggest problems which dogged the Vipers last season. Having won the 2006 Elite League play-offs, the Newcastle-based side endured a dismal 2006-07, finishing eighth in the final table. But a four-point opening weekend has put them in good heart ahead of tonight’s visit of Edinburgh Capitals and tomorrow’s trip to Manchester Phoenix. The reasons behind such a dreadful under-performance were many, but two of the key ones were the lack of a solid netminder and of the type of personalities who brought the side so much success the previous season. With a totally revamped roster including Ryan MacDonald between the pipes, coach Wilson feels he has addressed both. “Ryan’s got a great pedigree and I’m excited about the opportunity he’s going to be given,” said the Canadian. “He has a huge opportunity because he’s a young lad who can make a great career for himself. “He made some great saves in the final period against Nottingham last week.” The Vipers tried three goaltenders last season with imports Curtis Cruickshank and Peter Aubry failing to convince and 19-year-old Wearsider Mark Lee impressing but considered too young by Wilson to be first choice. NAHL side Mahoning Valley Phantoms were prepared to gamble where Wilson was not and despite losing such a talented player, he is delighted. “The opportunity for Mark is fantastic to play at a very good level for his age,” Wilson reflected. Captain David Longstaff argued the play-off victory in the Vipers’ maiden Elite League season may have been a mixed blessing. “It was probably too much too soon,” said the Great Britain international. “You don’t complain at the time but it probably raised expectations among the fans, expectations we couldn’t really maintain. Tonight’s game at Newcastle Arena faces off at 6.30pm and is preceded by the ENL Vipers’ match against Manchester. Whitley Warriors are in English National League (North) action twice this weekend, at Kingston today and at home to Sheffield tomorrow. Billingham Bombers entertain Grimsby. | 
