NOTTINGHAM Panthers general manager Gary Moran is both relieved and excited that the enlarged ten-team Elite League gets underway tomorrow.

The club is celebrating its 30th season since reforming in 1980 and its tenth year at the National Ice Centre.

Cup winners Panthers face play-off champions Belfast Giants at the NIC for the start of the league season which now features two more Scottish sides, Braehead and Dundee.

"After all the hard work that we have put in over the summer, I can't wait for it to start," said Moran.

"Our terrific fans enjoyed what we put on the ice last season and have once again shown their support.

"Season ticket sales are up and with ten teams we hope to have an even more exciting league this time round."

Defenceman Guillaume Lepine flew into the country yesterday and will play in the opening game against Belfast.

Moran said: "We had a European defenceman lined-up to sign on a short-term contract in case Lepine was delayed.

"But we finally managed to get Lepine's flight sorted."