BLACKBURN Hawks suffered a 7-2 home reverse to Whitley Warriors on Sunday.
The result leaves James Neil’s side eighth in the NIHL Moralee Conference and in the final play-off spot.
Hawks are away at leaders Telford Tigers on Saturday before welcoming Billingham to Blackburn in a crunch fixture on Sunday.
The Stars are just three points behind Hawks in the race to make the play-offs.
Against Whitley, the Hawks fell behind early and went two down early in the second period. Ross Kennedy halved the deficit but the Warriors responded with two more goals to open up a 4-1 lead.
Luke Boothroyd gave the home side hope early in the third period but Warriors pulled clear to claim the points.
Pictures: Thomas Foy
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here