Being down two after two is not the best position to be in.
That’s exactly where the Bearcats stand entering the week and heading to Game 3 at the RECC on Monday (April 7).
The Bearcats came up short in the opening two games of the Eastlink South Divisional Finals. Being close didn’t cut it.
In the opening game (April 3), the Bearcats and Crushers were like heavyweight contenders feeling each other out, awaiting the opportunity to slip one in.
It was Pictou County which drew first blood, a second period goal which accounted for all the scoring in the game. It was enough.
It was an evenly contested game, mild by playoff standards, but clear that now the teams have been re-acquainted since the Trade Deadline, the intensity level would grow.
Game 2 (April 5) in New Glasgow was more intense from the get-go. Both teams had their chances in the first period, but both came away empty-handed.
The Bearcats came out flying in the second, gaining a territorial edge in overall play, outshooting the Crushers 38-18 the rest of the way.
Unfortunately, they were not rewarded. The Crushers scored two in the second and the game winner in the third. The Bearcats challenged with a pair in the final period.
This one felt like a playoff game. The atmosphere was intense and downright testy by times. Credit the Bearcats attempting to maintain composure when the intimidation card was played.
The Bearcat powerplay has been spotty over the regular season. In the two games the club had twelve opportunities, with nothing to show for it.
Goaltending on both sides has been strong. Both starters are doing their best to keep things under control.
Game Three is set to go at the RECC on Monday (April 7). The continuation of Saturday’s effort could help them climb out of the hole in which the Bearcats find themselves.
Game Four is scheduled to be played in New Glasgow Wednesday, April 9. The remaining games, if necessary, are scheduled for April 10 (RECC), April 12 (New Glasgow) and April 14 (RECC).
Halifax, NS
5’8”, 175 lbs.
20, Forward
In the Eastlink North Division, the Edmundston Blizzard had taken a commanding lead over the Campbellton Tigers, winning the first three games. Game 4 was scheduled for Tuesday (April 8) in Campbellton.
Bearcat fans are reminded of the team’s start to the season, and to the opening game against Amherst. There’s lots of life to the Bearcats.
Bearcat-of-the-Week honours went to Liam Welsh. Due to the injury to Jake Todd, Welsh was elevated to Center Truro’s top
line. The former Moosehead responded, scoring Truro’s second goal in the 3-2 loss.