Ace Campbell wings in to boost Vipers

May 31 2007 By The Evening Chronicle

Fiesty winger Derek Campbell has become the latest player to sign up for the Vipers' 2007-8 campaign, with Rob Wilson hoping the Canadian will bring goals to Newcastle.

The 27-year-old from Ontario was an integral part of the Manchester Phoenix line-up last season, where he scored 71 points in 59 games (26 goals, 45 assists).

In contests against the Vipers, he notched five goals and four assists. But there is more than just offensive punch to his game, as the 241 penalty minutes accrued show.

Mobilx Vipers player-coach Rob Wilson couldn't hide his delight at getting Campbell's signature on a contract.

"Derek was a highly sought- after player, following a good season with Manchester," he said. "To have him sign for Newcastle is a great boost for this club.

"He's shown he can score goals in this league, and added to that he's pretty tough in his own right. All in all, he's a great fit for our team this coming season."

Wilson added that a major factor in getting the 6ft 1in winger to join the Vipers was the chance to gain a qualification while playing. "As I said, there were a few teams in for Derek, and the thing that swung it was the further education elment of the package."

Campbell said: "I'm very happy to be a Vipers player for next year. I've heard good things about the way the club is going on and off the ice, and also about the city and the fans.

"When I played against them last season I got the impression that they were a better team than their league position suggested.

"I had a pretty good time personally against the Vipers last season, and I want to continue that form this year."

Campbell is pencilled in to play on the top forward line alongside David Longstaff and a new import centreman.