If there were an effort worth preserving for later reference, it would be the one put forth last Saturday.
The Truro Bearcats looked a tad tentative out of the gate against the veteran Amherst Ramblers. That didn’t last long, as they went on to an impressive 5-1 victory.
The Bearcats proceeded to take over all aspects of the game the rest of the way. It was a pleasure to watch.
The goaltending was sharp. In fact, it was one seeing-eye shot short of a shutout performance.
The defensive corps chipped in offensively but, more importantly, the members cleared the puck efficiently and gave the zone the support it needed.
Offensively, Truro’s puck management was on the mark. While the shot count was even, the Bearcats’ chances were far superior.
Bearcats fans appreciated the game the Bearcats brought to the ice. This team is moving in the right direction.
One game doesn’t make a season. But it does indicate the capability in the dressing room.
This week, while Head Coach Shawn Evans was away, the team prepared for a rugged, demanding weekend ahead. Fortunately, two of the games are at home.
First up is the arrival of the South Shore Lumberjacks, Friday. They got out of the gate quickly and have been on the top rung of this Eastlink South Division for weeks.
They have a strong nucleus of returnees and some solid acquisitions to complement it. Both teams are looking for this test.
Saturday, the Bearcats host the Woodstock Slammers, another team they haven’t seen this season.
With just two returning forwards, their new head coach has his hands full. Like the Bearcats, their new faces are adjusting to MHL play.
Sunday, the Ramblers look for some measure of revenge against the visiting Bearcats, winners of both previous encounters. That game gets underway at 2 p.m. in Amherst.
The Bearcats goal is to get better with each practice and each game. There will be bumps along the road but they won’t deter these players.
This is a team worth following.
Gerry Hale is media relations co-ordinator for the Truro Bearcats junior A hockey club.
