As new head coach of the Weeks Jr. A Crushers Jason Malone wanted to start their rivalry with the Truro Bearcats on the right foot.
He got his wish as the Crushers downed the Bearcats 3-1 Thursday night.
It may have just been an exhibition game, but it set the tone the Weeks Jr. A Crushers were hoping to start their season with.
Prior to entering the John Brother MacDonald Stadium last night, the Truro Bearcats were undefeated in the preseason having shutout Amherst in two exhibition games.
Newcomer Jesse McInnis quickly put a blemish on their perfect preseason scoring at 5:06 to put the Crushers up one. Sean Hoyt and Robert Davis had assists.
Weeks Major Midget alumni made their mark in the second period with Garrett Holmes scoring at 1:17 the Crushers lead to two. He was assisted by Mitchell Taylor and Daniel Thomsen. Corey Bennett then scored at 10:23 assisted by Brandon Boutilier.
Starting out in nets for the Crushers was Jesse Cox, another Major Midget graduate who is vying for the no. 2 net minder position behind Justin Collier. Andrew Sidey took over in nets midway through the second.
Jordan Cox scored for the Bearcats with five minutes remaining in the second period.
The third period was scoreless.
Malone said he was impressed with McInnis, a 16-year-old from Cape Breton. He was injured for half of last season, but is already showing he can contribute to the team.
Malone was also pleased with the guys who graduated from the Weeks Midget program.
"I'm really happy with Garrett Holmes," he said. "He's earned his spot on our team."
Daniel MacLeod is another player who showed promise, he said.
The Crushers are scheduled for a rematch with Truro in the Bearcat den this Saturday.
