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Newcastle Vipers have signed defenceman Chris McAllister from American Hockey League side Hershey Bears.

The 33-year-old featured for the Vipers during the National Hockey League lockout in 2004, making 14 appearances.

Coach Rob Wilson is looking forward to his return: “Chris is a real team player and is the type of player we want playing at this club.

“His presence is going to be a real attribute to our game and I’m sure the fans are delighted.”

A powerfully built defenceman, the no-nonsense Canadian admits he is excited about the prospect of returning to the Elite League scene.

“I’m delighted to be heading back to England and the North East,” said McAllister. “I enjoyed my time there back in 2005 and I’m delighted to finally be heading back.”

Saturday night.

After a scoreless first period, Colin Shields put the Giants ahead in the second period but Marek Ivan levelled for the visitors in the third period.

Mike Burgoyne gave Belfast the lead again before Todd Griffith equalised but Dave Phillips scored the winner.

The Giants lost 4-1 at home to Coventry on Friday night, Bobby Robins putting Belfast ahead before Blaze scored four.

Danny Stewart, Dan Carlson and Sylvain Deschatelets (2) were the scorers for Coventry in the Elite League fixture.