The faces may change but the task remains the same.
It’s all about winning games, at any time, but perhaps more urgent coming down the stretch.
Last Thursday the Bearcats went to Pictou County executing a suffocating forecheck for much of the game.
Those first two periods of the game were the best Truro played all year. Bottle that effort up, everything would be wonderful.
Line tweaking brought contribution from all areas, while roles were being clarified. A short-handed goal and a pair of powerplay goals were a bonus in this well-deserved road win.
In Bridgewater, Saturday, the combatants finished the first period dead even. The second was hampered by four Bearcat penalties.
Truro killed most of them off but that is a drain on game plans and desired use of lines. From late in the second to the midpoint of the third, the Lumberjacks rattled off five goals. Game over.
For all teams fighting for the available playoff spots there is an urgency. It’s hard to win all games but every effort must be in place to make it possible.
Coming into this week, four points separate fifth from second. There’s a battle raging and each of the teams in that mix must feel a sense of urgency.
This week the Bearcats prepare for a pair of games against Divisional rivals. First up is a trip to Valley on Friday, then home to face the Yarmouth Mariners. Both games start at 7:00 pm.
The Wildcats have won once in the last ten games. They’re down, but not out in the minds of that rebuilding team. Regardless of record, they can be dangerous and have a say in how playoff standings settle, even if they are not going to be in them.
The MHL reigning Champion Mariners have been tops in the Eastlink South Division for weeks, and currently third overall in the MHL. They, too, are dangerous.
The Bearcats have to be at the top of their game for both encounters. There’s nothing free in the world of spot.
Fan support over the last few games has been on the rise. It’s great to see and much appreciated by the players.
Remember – Saturday at 7:00 vs Yarmouth.