It suddenly became a short hockey week for the Truro Bearcats.
A slate of three games was in store but Tuesday’s head-to- head matchup with Yarmouth was the only one Truro could get in. That one was a battle between the top two teams in the South Division. The Mariner shutout win moved them one point ahead of Truro to open the second half of the season. The Bearcats were victims of turnovers that cost them. That was the difference in the game. Truro outshot Yarmouth in the final frame by a wide margin but they were unable to dent the twines .That was the fourth meeting of these two contenders, each with two wins. Interestingly, all four wins were road wins.
Truro’s games in Edmundston and Grand Falls were postponed by mother nature. The Bearcats got as far as Fredericton before they turned back.
The mid-point of Truro’s season came in the team’s win over Amherst on December 10, and the mid-term report is favourable. The goal of icing a competitive team was achieved immediately. The team added depth and strength in all three zones, when the need was apparent. Truro’s goal tending tandem provides a one – two punch to match any in the MHL. It’s solid. Defensively, the corps is experienced, big, mobile, and diverse
in style. The back end is solid, as well. Up front, there’s a good blend of youth and experience, with no shortage of skill. Getting all on the same page to be a scoring machine is an ongoing process going forward.
While players are beginning to enjoy time spent away from the rink, with family and friends, management has decisions to make. Right now the MHL Trade Freeze is in effect (December 11 – January 1); however, the Trade Deadline to set the roster is on January 10. Some teams will sell, some will buy and some will tinker. Time will tell.
The Bible Hill Kinsmen, Truro Bearcats and RECC were pleased to announce that 374 Teddy Bears were received in the Toss. That makes an awesome contribution to the Christmas Index — Thanks. The Bearcats, both players and management, wish all a safe and happy holiday season.
Bearcat-of-the-Week went to rookie goalie, Jack Milner. He was the third star in the loss to Yarmouth, turning aside 25 of 27 shots directed his way. To date he’s appeared in 15 games, winning 11 and posting a 2.65 GAA and .911 SV%, He was a 2021 draft choice by Truro and the Halifax Mooseheads.
Next home game is set for January 13.