Bristol Pitbulls enjoyed their first game with a thrilling 13-9 win over the Vectis Tigers, from the Isle of Wight, in front of over 350 people at Bristol Ice Rink.

The Pitbulls are vying for a spot in the English National League Division Two, which is the fourth tier of ice hockey in this country.

And their win was made all the more special by the fact that a league representative was in attendance, and the side they beat already play in the league they are trying to gain entry to.

Rich Hargreaves, of the Pitbulls, said: "It was brilliant. We had a good attendance of over 350, which was even better as X-Factor was on, and with the credit crunch and it being Christmas.

"We had a great game, it was a bit of a goal fest and I was happy with the night in general.

"We had some of the old guard from the Avon Arrows of the 1970s and early 80s, and the Bristol Bulldogs, who folded just over 16 years ago, come and drop the puck at the face-off, which was nice.

The Bristol Pitbulls are looking for sponsorship, and anyone interested should contact Hargreaves at Bristolpitbulls@hotmail.co.uk, or visit the club's website.