Put a wrap on regular season play.
Bearcat stamina was on full display, concluding the season with three games in as many nights. Winning a pair of them relieved the pain.
In New Glasgow, the hometown Crushers played hard, with pride. The Bearcats matched that, then found a way to win in OT.
A few third-period mistakes in the Amherst game proved fatal for the Bearcats. Otherwise it was an even game where the result was unfavourable to Truro but the effort was sound.
While the contest with the Mariners was really a nothing game, it turned out to be a very exciting match-up. It was a good one for the Bearcats to win for a variety of reasons.
The Mariners won the races in the early going but the Bearcats began to get in their way. It was effective. Lesson learned.
All teams have a certain way to play. Departure from that way, whether forced or unforced, can be very costly.
The Bearcat goaltending tandem allowed the fewest goals against over the course of the season. This marks the 10th time in 15 years this honour has been earned.
It’s a team game, and everyone is part of its success. Over the last six weeks, the Bearcats have been at their best.
In the opening of the playoffs, tonight in Yarmouth, the Bearcats play a team which has been consistently at, or near, the top of the standings from the get-go.
The Mariners are a motivated team which possess speed, skill and testiness. Mariners historically dislike Bearcats.
Truro knows how the Mariners prefer to play. Bearcat success comes from attention to detail, part of which is to disrupt deep in the offensive zone.
Season records are of little value now. It’s what teams bring – game to game – that matters now.
Intensity levels will rise to challenge composure. For the nine rookies on the Bearcat roster, this is what they have been preparing for.
The Bearcat leadership group knows what to expect. They will be ready.
Go Cats Go!
Gerry Hale is media relations co-ordinator for the Truro Bearcats junior A hockey club.
