Game 1, Saturday at the Fishtank.

The Yarmouth Mariners will host the Truro Bearcats in the opener of the Eastlink South Division final.

The Mariners have been getting ready since they completed a sweep of Pictou County a week ago.

Head Coach and GM Laurie Barron says they’ve taken advantage of the break.

“We gave the guys some time off, lots of bumps and bruises. We came back Monday and have been practicing hard. Had a three-on-three tournament Wednesday. Working on some team specific things the next couple of days, then we’ll be ready to go Saturday,” said Barron.

The Mariners bowed out in the first round to Valley last year, and are enjoying being back in the postseason.

Barron knows that the fans are excited.

“It feels like pre-COVID now, the crowds are back. Everybody remembers a little bit of the sting from last year (first round loss to Valley,) so it’s nice to be back. We are playing a very good hockey club in Truro, well coached. The fans are going to be rewarded with what should be a great series.”

The series features the top two teams in the division, as they battle for a spot in the MHL Cup final.

Mariners co-captain Kieran Burke says this group is special.

“You always say the team is like family, but this year, we are definitely one big group. We’re all best friends and support each other. We’re looking forward to this series and playing in front of our fans,” said Burke.

The Bearcats are coming off a six game victory over Valley, and will look to defend their division title from last season.

Game 2 goes Monday in Truro.