It’s good to be back

Return-to-play was a long time coming.

The Truro Bearcats haven’t played a game since Dec. 11, but when the chance came to get it on, they came ready to play.

Opening in Yarmouth against the division-leading Mariners could be considered a challenge, but Truro handled it well. The Bearcats built up a three-goal lead going into the final period en route to a well-earned 4-2 road win. This was the team’s second win of the season over Yarmouth and demonstrated thei r capability when all are on the same page.

They clearly won the special team play, scoring two powerplay (PP) goals in two opportunities, while shutting out the Mariners during their four PPS. Throw in a short-handed goal when the home team needed to mount a comeback, and you earn yourself a deserved win.

The Mariners did outshoot the Bearcats in this spirited game but, in this sport, you only count the ones that go in. That game doesn’t make the season, but it was a character win in the first opportunity to get back at it … well done.

The Bearcats have a threegame homestand which opened Wednesday against Amherst. Edmundston is at the RECC Friday, then South Shore on Saturday. These games close out February for the Bearcats.

The Edmundston Blizzard have been contenders since they took over the Dieppe Commandos franchise for the 2017-18 season. They consistently ice strong teams. The South Shore Lumberjacks unloaded much of their top-drawer talent at the trade deadline, choosing to rebuild. The new-look Lumberjacks want to make some noise.

Saturday’s game is part of a special week of games sponsored by Metalfab Ltd. honouring first responders. Each team will wear specially designed jerseys which will be auctioned off. Fans wishing to bid on the Bearcat version of the sweaters are encouraged to pre-register by texting 902-899-0099, providing name, email address, and cell number.

First Responders are the backbone of our communities and the MHL is honoured to partner with them to recognize their value and contribution.