Caps return to action tonight

The importance of tonight’s game for the Summerside D. Alex MacDonald Ford Western Capitals is not lost on veteran defenceman Jesse Annear.

The Capitals, coming off a 4-3 loss to the Amherst Ramblers on New Year’s Day, will look to get back on the winning track at home against the St. Stephen Aces. Game time at Eastlink Arena is 7 p.m.

“We really have to get our compete level up,” said Annear. “The last game our compete level wasn’t that great, and it cost us a win. If we can compete for 60 minutes, it will be big for us.”

Thus, the Caps are looking to get right back on the winning track to avoid a potential slide.

An important two points are available as well.

The Caps are 16-12-1-0 and sit in second place in the Eastlink North Division of the Maritime Junior Hockey League. Summerside is one point ahead of the Campbellton Tigers (1512-2-0) and Miramichi Timberwolves (14-10-2-2) in the race for home-ice advantage in the playoffs.

“It would be good to finish the year in second place,” acknowledged Annear, 19. “If we play the way we can and play good at home, we crack at it.”

Annear is quietly enjoying a strong season as the Montague native and rookie blue-liner Jordan Spence of Cornwall are tied for third in team scoring with 27 points. Annear has five goals and 22 assists while Spence has scored six times and contributed 21 helpers.

“I’m pretty happy with my season so far, and feel a little bit more comfortable,” Annear said.

“I’m definitely a lot more confident when it comes to jumping up in the rush offensively. I feel I have extra time with the puck, and that’s because of the extra confidence.” will have a good