If there was any doubt, the 11 Bearcats new to the MHL can emphatically acknowledge the truth to that statement.
All four Bearcat games to date have been close. The secret is finding a way to win.
Last Friday, the Pictou County Crushers had early territorial advantage. Being second-best in races for the puck wasn’t going to cut it for the Bearcats.
It wasn’t the start Truro wanted. The Bearcats recovered, played the Crushers straight up, got a good bounce, then won the game.
Again, it’s been proven there is no such thing as a bad shot on net. This was an early season character win.
Saturday, the Bearcats had a great opening, picking up a pair of goals before the game was four minutes old. Unfortunately, the Valley Wildcats wouldn’t go away.
While the Bearcats created multiple chances, their flow was frequently curtailed by taking unnecessary penalties. They went the shootout route to claim that win.
Earning two wins over divisional competition is always huge. Entering the last week of September, it appears fans should gear up for some real battles for positions in the Standings.
The Bearcat focus remains on teaching the basics and stressing team unity. Systems are not fully in place but are clearly in sight.
This weekend is another full one. Friday, the Yarmouth Mariners are in town, and on Saturday, the Campbellton Tigers visit the RECC. Both games are set for 7 p.m.
The Mariners have been the hottest team in the Eastlink South Division, winning their four starts, all on Yarmouth ice. Truro will have its work cut out.
The Bearcats recognize the strong nucleus of retuning Mariners who own a win over Truro. The Bearcats want to even that up.
The Campbellton Tigers are in a rebuild. While the Bearcats know little about that roster, they should be ready for a full 60 minutes.
Bearcat fans should expect a pair of competitive games. Watching their team grow their game is exciting.
Gerry Hale is media relations co-ordinator of the Truro Bearcats junior A hockey club.