(Regina) Isaac Gaillardetz caught a touchdown pass late in the game and the Laval University Rouge et Or won 17-14 against the University of Regina Rams on Saturday, obtaining a 14e participation in the Vanier Cup.
Marc Fortier’s defense then closed the books on the locals’ last offensive sequence to achieve this hard-fought victory. The crucial play came on a third down and a yard, with running back Marshall Erichsen stopped by what seemed like the entire defensive front.
The Rouge et Or quarterback never doubted that he would be able to give his team the lead when he began his offensive sequence with 3:39 to play.
“I was happy to be there and we are grateful to experience these moments together. I felt that the confidence was there for everyone and we moved the ball forward when necessary. »
The pivot, however, mentioned that there was frustration during the meeting.
“We played their style of match. They have a good defense, but they created turnovers and we left a lot of points on the board. »
A similar story for Isaac Gaillardetz, who caught the winning touchdown in the end zone.
“We knew we were going to score her. That was three times in a row that we did what we wanted on our sequences and ended it all wrong. It was time to capitalize. For our touchdown, there were several options, but I’m happy that Justin Éthier chose this one. »
PHOTO HEYWOOD YU, THE CANADIAN PRESS
The Rouge et Or players pose with the trophy.
Crucial interception
Cornerback Jordan Lessard had a strong game for Laval. He was also chosen the defensive player of the match. After coming close twice, he thought it was time to get his hands on the ball. His interception allowed his team to take a 10-7 lead.
“I heard their supporters shouting at me and it was time for me to shut them up. As soon as I saw the ball go I knew I had a chance and I took it. »
Marauder Vincent Delisle assures for his part that he was surprised to see his opponents throwing the ball so much.
“It didn’t really appear that their quarterback had a sore shoulder. They were good and I expected a good match. I had played against Saskatchewan in 2022 and I knew good football was being played here. »
Street fight
Head coach Glen Constantin was relieved with the result, knowing full well that his team did not play its best game. He gave a lot of credit to his opponents.
“They were at home and they sold their hides dearly. They are a resilient, physical club that creates turnovers. I can say that it was a very physical match. »
The defense set the tone
The two defenses decided to put on a show during the first 30 minutes of this second Canadian semi-final. Yards seemed so hard to come by in the first quarter that a first down became an occasion to celebrate. Fortunately, the second quarter was a little more offensive and it was with a tie of 7 to 7 that the Rouge et Or and the Regina Rams found themselves at the half at Mosaic Stadium.
The Rams organization has never hidden that the identity of the formation was through the defense and no one can accuse them of having lied. The Rouge et Or offense finally woke up midway through the second quarter with an explosive 75-yard play. Olivier Cool managed to stand out in the middle of the field and Arnaud Desjardins spotted him with the bomb for a long touchdown.
If we remove this play, the Quebec offense was only able to produce 49 more yards against this tight defense. The Rams’ offense was much more consistent with total gains of 222 yards. Marc Fortier’s defense was, however, very effective in the pay zone, limiting Regina to two field goals and a single.
PHOTO HEYWOOD YU, THE CANADIAN PRESS
Rouge et Or quarterback Arnaud Desjardins
Laurel at the Vanier Cup
The Rouge et Or must now travel to Queen’s University to participate in its 14e Vanier cut of its history. Laval has an impressive 11-2 record in these situations. The Glen Constantin team will have to negotiate with Laurier, who made short work of Bishop’s 48-24 at the Uteck Cup.
What they said
The skirmish at the start of the match may have played in our heads. We found that they had been a little disrespectful towards us during the week.
Arnaud Desjardins, quarterback, Laval
I wasn’t happy about dropping two interceptions, but I made the most important one when it was time.
Jordan Lessard, cornerback, Laval
We gave up a lot of yards, but we were good defensively in key situations of the game. A good old “you can bend, but you don’t break”.
Vincent Delisle, marauder, Laval
It wasn’t easy, but we got the job done. I had a good individual match, but I know we can do better collectively.
Olivier Cool, offensive player of the match, receiver, Laval
