MANCHESTER Phoenix have been forced to postpone their Elite League clash with Basingstoke Bison on Sunday.

The game was expected to mark the opening of the new Altrincham Ice Dome but adverse weather conditions in recent weeks have caused a delay.

Phoenix have also agreed to rearrange their fixture with Belfast Giants from Sunday, February 4 to Thursday, March 1.

General manager Andy Costigan said: éThis is our most regrettable decision to date but we have no option. The new facility is not ready and will not be available for us until after the date of the Belfast game.

éThe recent bad weather and other logistical issues have once again over-ridden the aim of opening the Altrincham Ice Dome.é

Meanwhile, Phoenix coach Tony Hand, who takes his team to Nottingham tonight, is still searching for a replacement for Robin Gomez.

The Canadian centre returned to Canada after Saturday's 4-0 defeat by Sheffield and Hand said: "We are looking at a few options but these things can take time. There are a few players out there but not of the quality we are looking for.

"Most players are signed up for teams at this stage of the season so it's tough but hopefully we can bring someone in.

"We have been playing really well and then something like this happens. I am going to have to re-arrange things but I don't know how just yet. I'll have another look at the Sheffield video before deciding what to do.

"It's a tough shout because Adam Radmall has been playing with a broken nose.

"We've got some tough games coming up against Nottingham tonight and Belfast on Saturday."

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