The Truro Bearcats wrapped up their extended homestand in fine style.
For sure, there was plenty of excitement to go around with the shootout win over the Ramblers, followed by the come-from-behind decision over the Lumberjacks. No one could leave early in either.
Clearly, the Bearcats were the better team in the opening period of the Rambler game, however, Amherst held that distinction in the second. Remaining regulation time was dead even.
Both teams were guilty of missed opportunities but both put in a solid 60 minutes. Truro dominated the OT and skills competition.
Saturday, the Bearcats played their worst period of the month. It resembled some pre-Christmas play before they found their game.
That period against South Shore was a good reminder. There will be little reward when nobody is sharp.
The response, though, was a dandy. The team didn’t give up; it received some good bounces; and, the best player on the ice wore a Bearcat sweater. That’s a great combination.
The six-game homestand saw the team win five, losing only to Edmundston in a close one. There’s no doubt they took care of business on the home front.
The Bearcats are still a fourth place team in the Eastlink South Division. They’re still playing to secure a play-off spot.
While they may have compiled one of the MHL’s best records over the last 10 games, they still must focus on getting better. Recent character wins help.
The team hits the road this weekend for a five-game stretch before returning to the RECC March 8. There is also a makeup game to be arranged in Pictou County.
Friday, the Bearcats are in Berwick for a 7 p.m. start against the Valley Wildcats. That team is out of the playoff picture for this season. They can, however play the role of spoiler. They are never an easy team and they want wins just as badly as any other team. Never take a wildcat lightly.
Saturday the Bearcats play the Summerside Capitals in Tignish (7:30 pm). They are a highly regarded offensive team.
The Capitals lead the MHL in goals scored and their starting goalie has six shutouts in his eighteen games played. That’s a dangerous opponent.
Every week has its challenges. The Bearcats know how they have to play. They’re committed.
Gerry Hale is media relations co-ordinator for the Truro Bearcats junior A hockey club.
