<P> The main criticism levelled at the EIHL is that the league is too expensive, an accusation given credence by the collapse of the London Racers mid season in 2005, and the continued financial problems experienced by a number of other member clubs (most notably Basingstoke Bison and Manchester Phoenix in 2008--09). Both the Edinburgh Capitals and Newcastle Vipers made public statements about their potentially perilous financial situations, casting further doubt over both their own, and the league's sustained viability . This perceived problem with expenditure was given further credence when the Hull Stingrays announced on 11 August 2010 that they were ceasing operations immediately due to insufficient funds from sponsorship to guarantee completing the season . They were, however, taken over on 17 August 2010 by Coventry Blaze and therefore Hull Stingrays continued to operate . </P> <P> In 2011 the Newcastle Vipers announced that they would not be able to compete in the 2011--12 season due to financial difficulties and lack of a permanent home stadium . Newcastle had, up to this point, been playing their home games at Whitley Bay ice rink . A proposed new stadium in the Newcastle area did not materialise . </P> <P> The governance of the EIHL was criticised when no punishment was given when homophobic comments were made by the Sheffield Steelers announcer during a Kiss Cam . The League Chairman, is also the Steelers' Managing Director . </P> <P> Despite there being a limited number of suitable venues for league expansion, there have been various attempts during the EIHLs short lifespan to expand the league . After the successful addition of the Braehead Clan and the Dundee Stars for the 2010--11 season, the EIHL reported that it had entered discussions with the Fife Flyers formerly of the defunct BNL, and then resident in the SNL . On 24 June 2011, it was confirmed that the Fife Flyers had been admitted to the EIHL in time for the commencement of the 2011--12 season . </P>

When does the uk ice hockey season start