Hamilton has 'spirited' practice By FRANK ZICARELLI, QMI Agency

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HAMILTON - A day of implementing a game plan now turns to days of trying to figure out a roster and executing the delicate balance of the CFL’s ratio.

That, in a nutshell, is what lies ahead for the Ticats, who play the Als in Montreal in Sunday’s Eastern semifinal.

On Wednesday, Hamilton’s first full day of practice, the coaching staff laid out the game plan, the tempo good and spirits high.

“It was a good first day,’’ head coach Marcel Bellefeuille said. “It was spirited, but you got to be careful because we don’t play until Sunday. Our attention to detail was good.”

Veteran slotback Dave Stala noticed something different from the moment players gathered at Ivor Wynne Stadium.

“Even during the stretches, there was a lot more chatter, more (blank) talking,’’ he said. “It’s playoff time.”

Every player took reps, including linebacker Jamall Johnson, an import, and defensive back Ryan Hinds, a non-import.

“The game planning is done,’’ Bellefeuille added. “We now have to manage the ratio.”