’Cats settle for weekend split in New Brunswick

Half the mission was accomplished.

Sweeping in New Brunswick was never an easy task, so the Bearcats will have to settle with a split.

Coming out of Edmundston with the win was big. In that one, the Bearcats had the lead three times before the outcome was settled in overtime.

It was a blue collar win with scoring coming in a variety of ways – shorthanded, one powerplay, one unassisted, then the OT winner.

It’s clear the Bearcats found the path to victory. The taste was even better in front of the 2,700 Blizzard fans.

Sunday, in Grand Falls, the Bearcats had a 3-2 lead heading into the third, however, two Rapid goals deep in the back half of that period snuffed out designs on a sweep.

In both matches, Truro’s special team play was under scrutiny. The powerplay was

successful in both games. Statistically, the team was good on two of eight chances. The penalty kill gave up three in the 14 chances during the two games.

The percentage was good, but that’s a lot of penalties to kill.

The Bearcats come into this week four points out of fourth, and in a position to do something

about it on their home turf.

This weekend’s doubleheader will feature visits from the Amherst Ramblers and South Shore

Lumberjacks – both divisional rivals ahead of Truro in the standings.

The Bearcats have been to Amherst three times this year, and returned with no wins but two points earned in extra session play. Friday, they have the opportunity to close the gap with a win. For sure, if moving up is the plan, this game is a big one.

Saturday, the Lumberjacks will be in Truro for the third time. Each visit they show why they are first in the South Division.

It’s a big week as the Bearcats close out the month. They will put their best foot forward in both.

Saturday’s game will feature the annual Teddy Bear Toss. The team has been pushing this for weeks because it’s for such a good cause. Bag the Teddy Bears, then toss them on the ice when the Bearcats score their first goal.

It’s an exciting time of year on many fronts. Enjoy it.

Gerry Hale is president and media relations co-ordinator for the Truro Bearcats junior A hockey club.