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Player of the Game
By general consensus, the folks in Section W will choose one Alouette player as the PLAYER OF THE GAME based on his performance, impact and effort on that game day.
Grey Cup Diary and Photos |
- Each and every Grey Cup Crusade is an exciting adventure. It's a chance to visit a new town with old friends. This year was no exception. It began with a local CBC crew following our morning roundup of crusaders and filming us driving to the airport, checking our bags and taking off for Winnipeg with hopeful Alouette optimism. Section W'er Johnny B. was great as was CT, Bird-dog, Erock and Uncle Chig. Big-thanks to Chris for chauffeuring us to and from the airport.
• Met up with long time Grey Cup travelers Gus, Lily, Rosemary and Stella. These are typical hardcore Alouette fans that travel to each Grey Cup. We often run into them (this year at the airport and Huddle). They traveled with no hotel reservations until Friday, so they spent Thursday sleeping in a rented car. How is that for True Grit Fans!
• Big Thanks to long-time Section W supporters Bill and Leslie from Winnipeg . They helped secure hotel rooms that were literally steps away from all the downtown parties so it was a hop, skip and a jump to the Convention Center, Delta, Als Huddle and a few watering holes in between.
• Big Thanks of course to Section W's Kaiser of the Beerlin Wall – the Pharaoh of the Beeramid. His outstanding efforts to secure fantastic game day tickets put our fannies right at center field.
• The usual suspects made up the long lineups to get into TigerTown and Riderville parties. Fans from coast to coast filled the halls to crack open cans, crack jokes and enjoy the music of D.J.'s and live bands. Met up with an old Grey Cup friend from 1998, Saskatchewan 's tone-deaf snare drummer “Spanky”. A pro-Grey Cup partier, the tone from his drum and head are almost identical.
• A reunion of old friends matched up Section W Crusaders with The Eskinator, True 42 from Edmonton and Jackie, Ken from Calgary . This famous CFL foursome were profiled in the CBC Grey Cup Fans documentary hosted by the wise-cracking Peter Jordan. Also featured in this film were Gladys and Alexandra from our own Alouette cheer team. It was a chance to catch-up with the year's stories and pay up on beverage bets lost through the season! A fine brunch at the Paragon was shared by all.
• Grey Cup Crusading Section W rookies Joey, Morgan and Jamie proved to have the mettle to last the event. Adhering as best as they could to the motto:” Grey Cup is not a 100 yard dash, it's a marathon party”, they may have weebled and wobbled but they did not fall down.
• Section W's Robocop and AlsIn experienced Europe , Africa and India in their weekend in Winnipeg . You'll have to ask them about the details.
• The devilish crusader Damien was in his finest moments at the Tiger Town party keeping everyone laughing in stitches. Who can possibly keep up with his dance steps?
• The Section W Troupe once again joined the Grey Cup Parade, honored to be escorting our Montreal Alouette Cheerleaders through the streets of Winnipeg to a crowd that some commented was the largest we've ever seen. Sidestepping the landmines left by the Calgary Stampede horses ahead, we walked in the parade, singing, chanting and meeting many fans who both cheered and jeered us.
• What better way to top off the parade than for fans and cheerleaders alike to march off to a local Winnipeg rock bar called the Pyramid where the Montreal Huddle party was being held. The Alouettes have hung on to a great idea for Grey Cup festivities. Not competing with the large scale Spirit of Edmonton, Riderville parties, the Als rent out a small club for an expanded “Cinq a Sept”, and invite not only Montreal fans but fans from all over to enjoy live music and many cheerleading team dance routines. Many said they had there best times at the Montreal party, where even a huge contingent of BC fans came and enjoyed the fun. A Big Thanks to the Als cheerleaders who hosted the party.
• “X-Gamer”- a popular CFL on-line poster with goalsgo.com, sectionw.com, 13thman.com and probably a host of other CFL fan sites took the opportunity to propose marriage to his long time girlfriend at the Alouette Huddle to happy applause.
• It was fun to be able to visit the Atlantic Schooner ‘Down East Kitchen Party” being held at the York Hotel. The Maritimer's proudly boast to having a CFL team “the Schooners” yet folding before playing a game. There was live music from the Maritimes, cold Alexander's Keith's and lobster sandwiches. Each night was packed with CFL fans.
• Touchdown Manitoba party scored perfectly. Proudly attended by many Blue Bomber fans and locals. The Manitoba Premier, Winnipeg Mayor and Bomber brass each praised the efforts of the province and the city making this Grey Cup party come true and announcing that the game had become a sell-out. The Cup was escorted to the front stage by the RCMP as the Piper Band played on.
• With the Crown Royal Distillery in nearby Gimili , Manitoba there were plenty of shouts for ‘Double-Crown'n'Cokes' from hoarse partiers.
• Game Day (oh yeah, there was a football game this weekend) brings its own sense of anxiety when your team is involved. Add on to that is the methodical process of choosing the right out-door wear. Blessed with only –4 C weather, traditional thermal underwear, sweaters, extra socks and mitts would prove enough to get out of the game alive. Heat packs stashed in boots can also keep your toes warm. And don't forget the obligatory silver flask.
• Following the game's very disappointing outcome (you all know the gory details) many crusaders embarked back downtown to the Independent tavern or the Elephant and Castle. Some ventured back to Bill and Leslies' home just a few short blocks from Canad Inn Stadium to enjoy some home cooked chili and Genuine Draft. Reviewing the televised game highlights was as painful as it was in real life.
• It was back to town for one last western round-up, catch a bit of Winnipeg 's own Harlequin at the Convention Center for the Post Game Party and then catch up with other crusaders at the Elephant for Double Crowns and Cryin'. Moments later, the broken two pieces of the Grey Cup (thanks to BC's Kelly Bates) made it into the bar (from the Lion's Den Party held above our heads). Mostly BC fans gathered to have their picture taken with this decapitated piece of Canadian sports history. I figure breaking Lord Grey's mug will have a long curse on Lions for years to come.
• The next morning with bags packed it was off to the airport. Bleary-eyed after this four-day party marathon we joined bleary-eyed Alouette players and boarded West Jet together on a somber trip home. Oh what could have been had key plays gone another way. This flight may have been a joyous celebration all the way back to Montreal . And the Grey Cup Parade that we started on Portage Ave. in Winnipeg would have ended on Ste. Catherine St. in Montreal . Oh well, another year to wait. And another Grey Cup to attend.
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Montreal 33 vs. Toronto 24 |
Thunder –la la la Lah la la Lah la – Thunder! As it was inside the Olympic Stadium Nov. 12 when our Alouettes moved one big step forward to claiming the Grey Cup. Defeating the Toronto Argonauts 33-24, Montreal escaped some mistakes to win the East Divison title. The Als defense played strong and kept the Argos out of the game in the first half of play. The DB corps played one of their best games of the year, with Mark Estelle, Davis Sanchez, Ricky Bell and Chip Cox collecting a combined total of 24 tackles and providing excellent deep ball coverage. The men in the trenches can claim victory as well. Over the top sieges of enemy quarterbacks by Romero, Taylor and Belli kept the Argo offence on its heels. After the first half of play, the Alouettes led 16-3 which was an understated margin after a pair of drives were interrupted by a fumble and interception. The second half saw Toronto replace the struggling Damon Allen with Michael Bishop. Bishop, who led the Argos to victory in the semi-finals, rallied points on the board with TD tosses to Bruce and Palmer. Proving to have a tremendous arm, Bishop continued to fly the long ball. But the finest long ball of the game was the tremendous 52 yard bomb Calvillo threw to Thyron Anderson for a touchdown. It was very possibly the best ball thrown by Calvillo all season. Recruit Mark Estelle provided fireworks to the concrete cavern, when he stepped in front of an Argo receiver and raced the ball for 78 yards down the field for a major score. The Argos kept coming and brought the score with 6 points, but Calvillo would not be denied this game. He led the offense downfield to place in front of the uprights 44 yards away. Damon Duval kicked the clincher and the house exploded. The Montreal Alouettes are the 2006 East Divison winners.
The Section W Toot -Toot Salute goes the horseman-like effort of Rrumbling Robert Edwards. He was absolutely possessed in this game, carrying Argo defenders on his back, twisting and turning to find extra yards where none seemed to be. His fiery ground attack led the Alouette offense with 137 yards rushing, 18 yards receiving and one touchdown. Way to Go! Rrumbling Robert. All The Way To the Grey Cup Alouettes
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Montreal 24 vs. Toronto 20 |
It has been a tough week for Anthony Calvillo and the Montreal Alouettes. Coming off an embarrassing team loss to Edmonton at the Olympic Stadium, Calvillo saw his name dropped from its usual pedestal as the teams Most Valuable Player. It has been an inconsistent season for both the team and its heralded quarterback. With a must win game in Toronto for first place and home field for the divisional final, the team was on the road at Skydome with all eyes, especially those of Messrs. Wettenhall and Smith, fixed on the performance of its quarterback and team. The opening play on the opening drive for the Als begins with a time-out. Not enough players on the field. The swelling in the throat began. A drive stalls out with an unfocused penalty to Piercy for procedure. Gulp again. Argo QB Damon Allen goes to work on Estelle and Cox with his own deep threats RJ Soward and Arland Bruce With the teams tied with single points, Calvillo finds Dave Stala all alone for a TD pass but commits a foul when spiking the ball it hits an Argo defender. Allen, replies with a touchdown toss to Arland Bruce who beats Bell in coffin corner. This touchdown comes as a gift to Toronto after Dario Romero gets called on consecutive penalties of facemasking and unnecessary roughness. Another huge gulp. Another penalty to Ricky Bell for facemasking gives Toronto life in an otherwise punting situation. Allen connects with Bruce who scampers to the end zone, but the touchdown is called back when Coach Popp challenges that Arland's foot is out of bounds. The touchdown is overturned and a sigh of relief could be heard from Alouette fans coast to coast. The third and fourth quarters shows the Alouette defense playing in first half season form. Led by Tim Strickland and Ed Philion, the Als stopped the Argo run and broke up their passes. The Section W Toot -Toot Salute, his first for the 2006 season, Monsters at Large: Damon Duval shook off his first shanked field goal attempt to nail three straight and punt the ball with a booming 48 yard average. Kerry Watkins and Ben Cahoon took a beating out there but hung in tough to garner 12 catches between them. Kai Ellis and Dwayne Taylor pounded and pursued all over the field. Paul Lambert picked up the flag when Chiu went down and together with his O- linemates, dominated the line of scrimmage in the fourth quarter. The Als will now host the Eastern Divisional final at the Big Owe, facing the winner between the Blue Bombers and the Argonauts. With luck these two teams will beat each other up silly as we lay in wait, one win away from a Grey Cup berth. |
Edmonton 30 vs. Montreal 20 |
What to do? What to do? With two tickets in my hand for two football games just hours apart, surely I could see both. On a fine Saturday afternoon at Loyola Stadium, the Concordia Stingers were host to the Huskies from St. Mary's. Traveling to the Olympic Stadium from Edmonton Alberta were the Eskimos to face the Alouettes In NDG, the horns locked up in a classic gridiron battle. The Stingers were battling for a home field advantage in the CIS Quebec Division semi final playoffs. The Huskies, traveling from Halifax NS , needed momentum to take them into a big match up against the Xmen. The Alouettes too were fighting for home playoff positioning. Though the outcomes of these two games were totally opposite. In NDG, the game was fiercely played by the Stingers and the Huskies. Veteran Stinger QB Scott Syvret went to the air and to the ground with his talented running back Andrew Hamilton who gained over 230 all purpose yards. The Huskies replied by taking advantage of interceptions and fumbles to force Concordia's hands. As time ticked down, Concordia valiantly moved the ball on a last drive attempt and set up a Warren Kean field goal to send the game into overtime. A glance at my watch meant the cross-town trip to the cavern on Pierre de Coubertin would have to wait. What ensued was the most dramatic overtime battle I have ever seen. Both teams slugged away at the other, trading off field goals one after another. The game continued to an unprecedented sixth overtime series, when finally a turnover interception by Concordia's Sammy Okpra set the table for another Warren Kean field goal attempt. Kean hit the mark from 33 yards away to secure the game for Concordia. Leaping into an awaiting taxi, it was then off to the Big Owe. Arriving just at the end of half-time I could sense the stink. Trying to get into the stadium was difficult enough, fighting my way through a bull rush of people on their way OUT. Entering the stadium and seeing the faces on the fans who sat deep in their seats, I didn't need to look at the scoreboard. The scowls on some blended with the disinterested gazes of others. “But, I exclaimed to a displaced Section Wer, “They need this game to secure a home field playoff”. “Apparently Not”, was the reply. Upon review of the game on tape and the post game quotes, this was true. Apparently the Alouettes felt they didn't need to win this game. They didn't need to play disciplined football and stay out of penalty trouble. They didn't need to make crisp pass routes or throw crisp accurate passes. They didn't need to stuff Eskimo running backs or sack backup Eskimo quarterbacks. They didn't need to do anything really. They fulfilled the game plan to do nothing. They were successful at that. Forty-five thousand fans came to honor and cheer a designated Alouette Fan Game at the Olympic Stadium and watch a no-show performance by the home team. Meanwhile, as I sat in my plastic yellow seat, abandoned by a fleeing crowd, my face still chilled from a cool autumn outdoor breeze, I knew I had seen one of the most exciting football games of the year. Not here though. The Section W Toot -Toot Salute goes to all the great fans |
Saskatchewan 27 vs. Montreal 26 |
The Montreal Alouettes and the Roughriders from Saskatchewan lined up again, taking a brief 4 day break from their last series of downs against one another. Not a lot of time to re-invent strategy, just keep doing what you were doing. Considering the Als beat the Green Riders at home, you'd expect some momentum from a team that is in a race for first place with the Argos . In one of toughest places in the country, Taylor Field (forever) fans rallied the home team, and beat the visitors from the east on a last second Luca Congi field goal. It shouldn't have had to come to that. Points were left on the field, this time the Als victimized by their own carelessness and some shoddy referee work. The Section W Toot -Toot Salute goes out to Terrence Edwards.
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Montreal 35 vs Saskatchewan 8 |
“Win one for the Coach”. It probably didn't matter which coach, either career winless interim coach/GM Jim Popp or recently departed Don Matthews. It was the best game the Alouettes have played all year. The underlying sentiment was a team that was glued together to win. Many felt compelled to play for the Don. To send him a message that they still care for him and will continue to battle in his name. Giving Jim Popp his first CFL win as a coach was a double blessing. Popp is in the difficult position of steering the team in the right direction for a November date in Winnipeg . On this beautiful autumn date atop Mont Royal , Popp was able to see how his veterans and rookies alike competed with an emotion and intensity not seen yet in this 2006 season. The visiting Roughriders from Saskatchewan , already boasting a team that is strong on both sides of the ball, could not match the fevered pitch dominated by the Alouettes. Led by Anthony Calvillo, the Als took to the air with Ben Cahoon and O'Neil Wilson. Passing for almost 300 yards, Calvillo found the time and composure to execute. Where the running game stalled out, the passing game was distributed well. The monsters of the field were the defense and special teams. The defensive front line was an absolute force. Led by an emotional R-Kal “The Tooltruck” Truluck, the Als torpedoed Rider quarterbacks six times. They were aggressive in attack and played with a unified spirit. It didn't end there. Duane Butler, Ricky Bell and recent addition Duane Taylor were stuffing Green Riders at will. Sanchez and Karikari intercepted passes while Philion and Ellis battled in the trench. A fabulous win for the team. A win that re-establishes confidence and direction. A win that sends a strong message to the rest of the league. Get ready for the October Alouettes! The Section W Toot -Toot Salute goes to Anwar Stewart. Monsters at Large: Ben Cahoon is the toughest, most talented slotback around. He takes licks and holds onto balls like no other. O'Neil Wilson played the best game of the season and is now establishing his own presence on the field. Etienne Boulay is the special teams monster of the day. He always seems to be the first man downfield to cover a kick. Don't forget Chip Cox who has the keenest knack for getting a hand on punts. A ridiculous number of flags were thrown at Montreal , many for plays that lacked discipline. How about the defensive line's group sack dance? Als face the same Riders in Regina this Friday. A must win, as Toronto is keeping pace with us for first place in the East.
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Montreal 23 vs Winnipeg 20 |
Screeeeeeeeeeeeecccchhh!. That's the sound of heavy steel wheels being jammed by brakes. That's the sound of forward velocity being halted. A losing streak ending. The frustrating downward spiral by our high flying Alouettes landed roughly on the tarmac, breaking wheels, landing gear and ripping up the fuselage. But it avoided disaster. It avoided complete carnage. The six game losing streak stopped on this day in Winnipeg . It was veterans day for the Alouettes. Inspired by a team-only dinner by Ed Philion, it seemed apparent that Montreal's veteran leadership was called out to perform. Anthony Calvillo started strong, moving the ball with O'Neil Wilson who played his best game of the year. The Alouettes replied to Winnipeg's opening score with a two yard running touchdown from Rrumbling Robert. It capped off a drive that used some imagination with a Dave Stala fake punt-pass to Chris Davis. Calvillo distributed the ball well and finally found a groove that balanced out the aerial work with some great ground work with Rrumbling Robert. Both kickers traded points in the first half, one of the most exciting plays was a first down pass to tight-end Anwar Stewart for 52 yards. (Keep your hat on next time Anwar!!) The Alouettes took an eight point lead into the dressing room at half time with some confidence. Second half was dominated by great plays and stupid plays. Quick passing to Cahoon, Watkins establishes good field position while the defense holds Kevin Glen and the Bombers to a two and out. Calvillo capitalizes with Wilson and then runs a play into the end zone himself only to have it called back by a Luke Fritz penalty. Third down and Damon Duval, after hitting the first field goal attempt perfectly, is forced to kick again after a Bomber penalty, and shanks it wide. Hmmm. Is something familiar beginning to brew here? Fortunately the Als defense played solidly. Though talent like Charles Roberts is formidable, he was held to less than 70 yards on 12 carries. Calvillo in the meantime worked the ground diligently and Rrumbling Robert Edwards responded to the workload. Edwards carried offensive and defensive lineman on his back as he ploughed the turf for 109 yards with an incredible 21 carries. Despite these upsides, the Alouettes nearly executed themselves as they seem to be so apt to do all year. In three consecutive plays, Montreal committed brutal errors. A Wilson reception for 20 yards goes awry as O'Neil fumbles the ball. Then Avon Cobourne fiddles around for a loose third down punted ball and gives up possession. Then veteran Davis Sanchez loses his mind and allows a Winnipeg drive to continue after he gets flagged for unsportsmanlike gesturing to the Bomber bench. As hard as Montreal fights to win, it seems that the brain-dead play or devastating turnover lurks just around the corner to upset everything. The game ends in Montreal's favor by three points. There were many points left on the field, but this game had a different objective than just big points. We just needed to score 1 more than Winnipeg . We just needed the win. The losing streak is at an end. The Section W Toot -Toot Salute must be shared by a unit Monsters at Large. Anthony Calvillo came to play. Ben Cahoon came to play. O'Neil Wilson came to play. Rrumbling Robert came to play. Etienne Boulay came to play. Everyone needs to come back out to play this Thanksgiving Day Monday when the Roughriders come to the Hill. We have yet to play the Green Riders and they are proving to have many weapons to contend with. Give it all you got .... HERE!]
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Winnipeg 17 vs. Montreal 14 |
High winds knocked out power lines to many Montrealers this past Sunday. But who would have guessed another strong wind knocked out the power to the Montreal Alouette offense. This wind however had a very pungent aroma to it. The Als lost their third straight home game and sixth straight overall. It has been a difficult week for Montreal having to answer to whirlwind rumors of The Don's pending firing, player promises of not repeating the 2001 season. But once again the Alouette offense came up flat. Facing a Winnipeg Blue Bombers team having its own problems, Winnipeg ran the ball with Roberts and were successful throwing to Armstrong and Stegall even while Alouette defense stiffened in the red zone giving up only one touchdown (1 yd – Roberts). But it seemed more often than not that the beleaguered defense was being called onto the field after Calvillo's Air Corps fizzled. In fact, the entire first half was without too much drama with the Blue Bombers leading 14-4 at the half. Montreal continued to struggle offensively with under and overthrown passes and dropped balls. The Alouettes didn't come to life until Avon Cobourne ran back a missed Winnipeg field goal from deep in his own end zone to the Bomber 34. It was the best field position the Als had all half, and they finally got the ball into the end with a Rrumbling Robert 15 yard run. Yet Montreal still found ways to trip up any momentum. With the team pressing in the Blue Bomber redzone, the Als needed only a foot to gain a first down. Backup QB Marcus Brady gained that yard on his plunge up the middle, but by extending the ball unnecessarily, it was fumbled and Winnipeg regained control. It was a play that let the air of hope out of the fans and players alike. The defense could not stop Charles Roberts who took it upon himself to drive the ball right back into the Alouette end of the field before finally taking a knee to end the game. The Alouettes had the chances to put Winnipeg away, but gave these chances up. The East division is now a three way tie, with only two teams looking upwards. The Section W Toot -Toot Salute goes to special teams player Avon Monsters At Large: Ed Philion and Adriano Belli seemed prominent in the mix when they stuffed Winnipeg at the goal line in first half of play. Sanchez played with fast feet in deep coverage and could have taken an interception to the end zone in the first quarter of play. Rumbling Robert is losing the handle of the ball at the most inopportune time, something that has never been his problem. Eric Lapointe runs twice for 26 yards and disappears. What's up with that? He was showing the same legs he showed us this time last year. Why isn't he being used.? It was good to see Tim Strickland and Anwar Stewart leading the way for a courageous defensive effort, each with a QB sack. Calvillo's confidence is shot. But we haven't given up on him. Maybe the plays should be called in from the sidelines, that way he can just concentrate on execution. Make it simple. Montreal flies to Winnipeg for the rematch this Friday. The losing skid ends there.
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BC 36 vs. Montreal 20 |
The Montreal Alouettes went into BC Stadium with a bye week behind them. Prepared. Geared and ready to go. And in the first quarter of action, you would have to believe that the benefits of intense strategizing were going to pay off. Calvillo distributes the ball between Wilson, Rrumbling Robert Edwards and Watkins to move the ball downfield and to score on a nice 23 yard pass to Watkins for a touchdown. The Lions remained in the hunt, chipping away with Paul McCallum field goals as both teams endured a physical defensive battle. Dave Dickenson connected with Geroy Simon and Jason Clermont often. Simon scored two brilliant touchdowns and is perhaps one of the most underrated receivers in the league. The hard fought first half ended with the battling Alouettes actually taking a one point lead in the locker room. The second half is where we normally see the coaching staff make whatever alterations to the game plan to help the Als thunder out of the blocks in the second half. Unfortunately this did not happen in this game. Montreal was mauled by the Lions, who took to task the defensive secondary and the Alouette offensive line. The pre-game experiment of moving a pair of new imports on the O-line to replace Luke Fritz and Paul Lambert was in no doubt a gamble. This is the first time I can remember the coaching staff makes such a bold adjustment to the O-line. This has been a group that has battled together for years and been regarded as the best unit in the league. But on the road, in the noisiest stadium in the league, this unit which requires communication and timing was in a huge battle. The running game disappeared. Rrumbling Robert Edwards could only generate 30 yards on 6 carries. In fact, the Alouettes only managed a team total of 70 yards on the ground. The O-line struggled to open any holes on a blitzing BC defense and had more than their hands full in pass protection. The Als scored their second touchdown in the third quarter with a Calvillo pass to Watkins. That would be the only points they could score in the entire second half. The majority of time saw Calvillo running for his life. The Lions registered an unbelievable 12 quarterback sacks by the game's end. The ball sure isn't moving forward, when your quarterback is running backwards. The defensive secondary took its lumps too as Dickenson picked them apart with his pedigree of receivers in Simon, Clermont and Jackson. BC scored 24 second half points to muscle the win and hand Montreal its 5 th straight loss. The Section W Toot -Toot Salute goes to Montreal receiver Kerry Watkins. The Montreal Alouettes know that they are still in good position to claim 1 st place in the East. That of course is a downgrade from great. With the solid footing of the first half of the season now eroded away, this slippery slope downward can be graphed as a vertical free fall downwards. Our quarterback seems lost, his intuitive feel with Ben Cahoon was noticeably missing. We must look at the entire coaching staff for the solution. The talent is on the field. Repairs to the team psyche and strategy must be addressed. It is Don Matthews and his staff that must now produce and prepare a game plan that will bring the brakes to this skid in time to face back to back games against our divisional foe – the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. |
BC 48 vs. Montreal 13 |
There was much anticipation for this game. Leaders of their respective divisions, one was on a five game winning streak, the other on a three game losing streak. The redeeming fact for the Alouettes was that they were playing at home in front of 20,000 supportive fans in hopes of putting the brakes on this recent downward skid. However, each teams opening drives were pretty much indicative of the things to come. Calvillo moving his team down the field only to stall out in the red zone. Dickenson on the other hand, masterfully using running back Smith and Geroy Simon, connects with a great touchdown pass to Jason Clermont. Dickenson has his choice of some of the finest pedigree receivers in the league in Simon, Clermont, Thelwell and Jackson. They are big, athletic and talented football players who work well with Dickenson. Throw the explosive and elusive Joe Smith in the background behind a strong offensive line and the BC offence is a juggernaut. In second quarter action, Dickenson is sidelined with a recurring injury and in comes Buck Pearce. The change proves to be an advantage for BC, Pearce a scramble QB versus the pocket passer Dickenson. Pearce (with the aid of an iffy 2 nd down and inches ball spot) sends the Lions to the dressing room leading 20-6. In the second half, Calvillo sets the tone with passes to Wilson and Watkins. But disaster strikes again on a goal line plunge, Rrumbling fumbling Robert Edwards loses the ball and turns the ball over to the Lions. For an offense with such shaky confidence, this gaffe proves to be unraveling. BC quickly responds with Geroy Simon outracing the novice Alouette backfield for a 67 yard touchdown. These two plays prove to be the jab-uppercut knockout blow for the game. The Lions continued to score at will, with TD's to Thellwell and Smith. The Alouette defense was no match for this Lion team and the Montreal offense has lost its compass to the end zone. When the opposing punter (Paul McCallum) has to punt only three times for the entire game, you know its going to be a long night. The Section W Toot -Toot Salute goes to Thyron Anderson. Monsters at Large: The defense sorely missed Tim Strickland. The little general is important for energy, play-calling and all important tackling. Where has Dave Stala disappeared too? The young rookie defenders struggled against the Lions and things won't get any easier when the two teams meet again in two weeks in the Lions Lair of Doom. |
Calgary 41 vs Montreal 23 |
This certainly wasn't the result many were looking for following a two game losing streak on the road. As we've often professed, if you're going to lose, lose in another area code. Championship teams welcome the opportunity to greet an opponent they lost to on the road. Up on the Hill, the Alouettes were awaiting a rested Stampeder team on their own turf. But instead of dishing out the discipline, the home team was trampled underfoot. Calgary simply took advantage of more Alouette mistakes, namely bad penalties by Bell (roughing) and Kent (interference), to score the first touchdown of the game. Calvillo came out strong; avenging the plague of interceptions in last week's game against Toronto , to re-establish his career success with Cahoon. Moving the ball forward, but still missing open targets (Anderson) Montreal could not get into the end zone in the first quarter, settling for a pair of Duval field goals. But credit must be given to Calgary . They brought an exciting game plan to the field and performed special teams plays to near crisp perfection. A great fake field goal that saw Cates speed past astonished Alouettes into the end zone was called back because of an untimely penalty. That didn't stop them from trying a fake punt to Brian Clark in the second quarter and scamper past the same astonished Alouettes for 29 yards. Calvillo meanwhile got the offense deep into the red zone but gassed out on an Anderson offside penalty and once again settled for a field goal. While the Als defense kept Reynolds in check, Stamperder QB Henry Burris seems to be at his best whenever he plays Montreal . He played with cool anticipation of blitzes, finding receivers open downfield and knowing when to take off to the safety of the sidelines. He played with a confidence that we aren't seeing from the Montreal offense. Following a Calvillo to Anderson TD pass, the teams went to the locker rooms at half time with Montreal ahead by three points. Considering the script so far this season this is better than expected for Montreal fans. The first half sees the offence stumble around until halftime, often falling a few points behind, only to return in the second half to light up the scoreboard. The defense which will surrender some points in the first half has been habitually shutting teams down tight in the second half. In this game, the script we'd been used to got tossed out the window. The wheels of the Stampeder chuckwagons set the tone with a successful onside second half squib kick against the same astonished Alouettes. Calgary never looked back. Burris methodically picked apart an atrociously bad Alouette secondary that were not only unable to contain the like of Copeland, Rambo, Lewis and Thurmon, but were guilty of the worst tackling we've seen in months. Sanchez needs to actually HIT someone, Kent was chaotic, Bell was bad, and the Kharikari-Crutchfield mid field collision was symbolic of the wreckage in the secondary. The offense scored zero points in the second half. ZERO. The seven second half points came off the foot of Damon Duval (field goals, rouge). Calgary coach Higgins and his staff outwitted the Don, and the Calgary players executed their game plan at will against out black-shirted hometown heroes. It doesn't get any easier, a coach named Wally Buono, who has often messed up the Alouettes, escorts his BC Lions to the Hill next Friday.
Monsters at Large: Jeremaine Copeland played another strong game against Montreal out-dueling Clint Kent in the end zone to pull off his best TD celebrations yet. Famous for some the wackiest dance executions ever, his five man Calgary bobsled racer routine is the funniest thing we've ever seen. Someone get Calvillo to re-adjust the crosshair aim on his throwing arm. Anwar Stewart had his hands full keeping Burris contained. Montreal coach Marcel Bellefeuille needs to spend one day explaining what offsides are to this Alouette receiving corps. Dave Stala seemed to regain some of the stick-um he had last season catching four passes, while Ben Cahoon's work ethic, dedication and discipline keeps providing results like this game's 104 yards on seven catches (though still can't buy a touchdown.). Rrumbling Robert Edwards was stuffed like a baked potato amassing a whopping 16 yards on eight carries. Yikes! Get ready for Friday everyone .. And wear a helmet.
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Toronto 31 vs Montreal 6 |
Well then. Taking a brief summer sojourn and you return to what? The Montreal Alouettes venture off to the center of Canada 's MediaWorld to meet up with the ho-hum Argos and they beat the pants off us! In all fairness to the team, this game appeared as though this game was gift wrapped and delivered to Toronto . Damon Allen appeared in the game, nursing his boo-boo finger and threw enough passes to eclipse a very heady record of 70,000 career passing yards. Incredible numbers for an incredible career. But the opportunities afforded the Argos came off the numerous miscues made by the Alouettes. Quarterback Anthony Calvillo had a bad day at the office. We've all had it. These are the days when nothing goes right no matter how hard we try. Mental errors, klutzy errors, silly errors. No matter how we try to correct them they snowball into bigger problems. We're saved by the 5:00 PM bell and get to go home, wishing we'd never gotten out of bed. Calvillo too. Five interceptions in one game is hardly something we can say we've ever seen. Each of those passes wobbly ducks fluttering in the air. Give Toronto credit. They hawked those defenseless ducks down and turned them into touchdowns (Parker) and great field position (Carter,Younger). As brave as our defense has been this year, the chinstraps were often not off long before they were back on the field again. In the first half alone, the Montreal Alouette offence had five 3 & outs. Calvillo had some success with Watkins in the game, but where were Anderson and Cahoon? A game for the discard bin. File 13. Hopefully Calvillo went home, had a hot soup and went straight to bed. A bad day at the office no doubt. Time to awake for a big meeting against the Stampeders who come to the Hill on Thursday. The Section W Toot -Toot Salute this week goes out to Louis Mackey. Monsters at Large: Duane Butler was his usual dominating self with seven tackles. He and Strickland are the keys to the success of this defense. Between Watkins and O'Neil they caught 17 passes, while Stala, Cahoon and Anderson combined only made 7 catches. Odd ball distribution there Anthony. Burris and his Bunch make their way for another edition of the Thrill on the Hill. They've gotten some game going now that they were the first team to beat Montreal this year. Seems fitting that Anthony and the Alouettes prepare a very special greeting for this Bunch. See ya then …
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Calgary 27 vs Montreal 24 |
The unbeaten streak comes to an end. The Montreal Alouettes lost their first game of the season against the Calgary Stampeders at McMahon stadium Saturday night on a last second field goal from half the field away from their own end zone. They did not have to lose this game. Montreal fulfilled the prophecy claimed by many media talking heads and select players that if the team was going to lose, it would be by beating themselves. They did that. Fumbles and untimely penalties robbed the Als an opportunity to take these two points and protect their unblemished record. The Section W Toot -Toot Salute goes to Tim Strickland. Monsters at Large. Again the accurate boot of Damon Duval comes through. He was perfect on all three field goal attempts and averaged over 45 yards on his 5 punts. Duane Butler is a human torpedo. This guy literally launches himself at opposing ball carriers. Terrence Edwards and Chip Cox have to be red-faced for committing costly penalties wiping out a touchdown and strategic field position. Ed Philion is the Bull Rush Brigadier in his charge up the chins of opposing offensive lineman. Thyron Anderson played his best game this year catching 5 passes and missing two others by just inches. The brothers Edwards could produce a very lethal punch. Look to see the boys in more action next week against Toronto . Until then ….
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Aug 3, Montreal 31 vs Toronto 7 |
7-0 and away we go. The Montreal Alouettes continued their unbeaten streak by containing the hapless Argonauts 31-7 for another Thrill on the Hill Thursday night. The Boatmen were facing the difficult task of patching up a long list of injuries to key personnel which included Damon Allen, pretty much the entire running back squad (Williams, Avery and Johnson) RJ Soward, Keith Stokes and the list goes on. It was a feast for a hungry and determined Als defense who saw to it to attack back-up Argo quarterback Spergon Wynn and keep the Toronto offence off guard and powerless. So effective was the defensive game plan, the Argos could not even penetrate the Montreal end of the field all game. Huge efforts from Jerome Haywood, Tim Strickland, Davis Sanchez and Clint Kent battled the Argos into the Field Turf. On the other side of the ball, once again the Montreal offense could not generate a decisive flow. Countless drives stalled in the red zone, bad penalties at key moments (Watkins) and dropped passes (Stalla) plagued the offence that could have really run up the score. The shining star however was once again Rrumbling Robert Edwards. Rrumbling Robert seemed to play with inspired vigor and he romped through the Argo defense, collecting a whopping 138 yards on 17 carries. With success like that we shouldn't immediately default to a passing game. Not when Edwards can hit the holes, break tackles and gain huge tracks of land. He scored two touchdowns (our only touchdowns) on goal line plunges. The rest of the points came off the talented toe of Damon Duval who I'm sure enjoyed the increased workload, hitting 5 of 6 field goals. It wasn't an Argo team that I'm sure we'll be seeing later on this month, or at the end of the year. Their season has been crippled with injuries, but these players will be back and it will have the talent to take a run at the divisional game. Montreal can grab these two points and maybe more importantly, start studying ways of getting this offense to start hitting on all cylinders for a full 60 minutes. The Section W Toot -Toot Salute goes out to a crew that rarely gets their due. The Big O's. Monsters at Large: Ed Philion is on fire, as was Kai Ellis and Anwar Stewart. This defense ROCKS. We might very well be only as successful as Damon Duval's kicking leg, which so far is great. Lapointe, Diedrick, Vilimek and Greene all got some playing time. Good decision The Don. Nealon Greene and the offence better serve up some “excuse-me's” to the defense for that late fourth quarter pass that was intercepted by Carter and taken into the end zone for the Toronto's only points. Shameful considering the defense's perfect performance tonight. It's off to McMahon stadium to try on Burris and his bunch. We'll need a solid effort all around to continue this winning
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July 28, Montreal 21 vs Edmonton 13 |
Not entirely what many were expecting from this revisit of last years' Grey Cup finalists. This was Montreal 's first kick at the Edmonton Eskimos since losing the championship game in double overtime last year in Vancouver . Many were expecting to see the often quoted Alouette quarterback Anthony Calvillo fulfill his teams' promise of playing a full sixty minutes and show more offensive potential. On the other hand, Edmonton were out to avenge their last second-fourth quarter meltdown against Winnipeg last week and show the hometown fans that they are on track to reclaim the big silver mug in November. Like any chess match the movements were cautious and safe. In fact, one wondered if either team was going to break the deadlock of the first half of play. Relying on their respective kickers (who were both inconsistent ), the two teams grinded away at each other nose to nose like a rugby scrum until halftime, with the Alouettes taking a tender lead of 7-6 into the dressing room. This is probably just how Montreal likes it. Judging by the past scripts of this year, the dance only begins in the second half. First half of play is much like sniffing each other out. The strategy it seems is to keep the opponent well within arms length, fist clenched on the nape of his jersey and eyes fixed on this reflective stare. Waiting until the moment when Montreal decides to throw the knockout blow.
The Section W Toot -Toot Salute goes out this week to Rrumbling Robert Edwards. Monsters at Large: Anwar Stewart again was symbolic of a defense that was simply splendid. Ricky Ray was constantly being hunted by the aggressive play of Stewart, Strickland, Butler , and Anchonlou. How about that picture perfect interception at a most critical time of the game by Etienne Boulay? Can't say enough about the Big O's. With Mudge out for the season, Okeke still hurting, Luke Fritz rejoins the mix, (collecting an Edwards fumble) and together they perform as well as any O-line in the country. Matthews still loves the challenges, but I think the plays he chooses are not the best. Case in point, the challenge on the spotting of the ball on a third down gamble. Not likely to be overturned considering the mass of humanity in the pile-up. However, the Don likes high risk gambles including the idea of even attempting that third down conversion. The Boatmen from MediaWorld make the trip to the Hill this Thursday. They are hurting with injuries and I'm hoping we give them the beating they so richly deserve. See ‘ya there. [Blow Your Face Out .... HERE!]
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July 20, Montreal 41 vs Hamilton 38 |
Whew Part Two Or Deja VooDoo Anyway you want to look at it. Another hot muggy Thursday night. Yet another game against the Hamilton TigerCats. Another shaky first half start for Calvillo and his corps. Another brilliant outing by Strickland's Strike Force, and the Special Teams. The TigerCats have got to be as sick of playing us as we are of them. Likewise Berry 's Blue Bombers. Its must be at the point now where neither team has a page in the playbook that hasn't already been attempted. Yet the Alouettes prevailed in dramatic fashion once again. The first half saw Jason Maas do his thing, and make quick hit passes to Terry Vaughn and Brock Ralph. A deep pass to K. Peterson who had beaten Lamont Brightful gave the Cats good positioning for a Maas QB sneak into the endzone. But besides that, Strickland's Strike Force with Tim, Duane, Dwayne, Jerome and Chip all piling into the faces of Jason, Corey and Pat kept the TigerCats in check. It was Anthony's offence that surrendered the big plays for Hamilton . First half play seems to haunt the offense. Missed passes to Watkins and Anderson and the first of two interceptions that would be taken downtown for touchdowns would plague the Als' offence. It's uncharacteristic of Anthony to be making those bad reads and even more unlikely that he would get torched for giving up 14 points. The momentum swing in the first half was the fake punt-Eric Lapointe romp downfield for 35 yards that would ultimately set up a TD pass to Jeff Piercy. When the half ended the Als were only three points down which is just where they would hope to be given their past performances in second half play. When the teams returned, it was all Calvillo. Setting up quick passes to Watkins to then concentrate on his comfort zone. Calvillo to Cahoon. Calvillo to Cahoon, Calvillo to Cahoon. Over and over they connected together to force the offence downfield. Let's also not forget Rrumbling Robert Edwards who did a great job of not only blasting through the line but making some key catches, one of them for a touchdown. Consecutive touchdown drives seemed enough to pull away from Hamilton , but this TigerCat team was playing their best game yet. Down by eight points they drove the ball into the Montreal endzone and completed a two point conversion to tie the game. This set up the dramatic final set of plays. To set the table a quick pass to Kerry Watkins and a ground gain with Rrumbling Robert. Then it was back to man who got you this far. Cahoon open downfield for a beautiful 34 yard reception and a first down on Hamiliton's 11-yard line. All we needed was the sure foot kicking of Damon Duval with time almost up and the Als' sweat out another victory 41-38. The Section W Toot -Toot Salute goes to Number 86. Monsters at Large: Anwar Stewart was perfect in reading a Maas hitch pass and took it all the way for an interception touchdown. Chip Cox has wings, yes indeed the rookie sensation got his second blocked punt today. Nice to see Eric Lapointe in the mix, especially capitalizing on a play that he fumbled a few weeks past. The O-Line, though battered (Okeke got hurt in the second half) provided great protection for Anthony (no sacks) and opened up some great holes for Rrumbling Robert who got 82 yards on the ground. Davis Sanchez made his return today and gelled well with the Aerial Gladiators. Matthews and his coaching staff have to be the masters of all time in second half adjustments. This team is almost Jeckle and Hyde in respect to 1 st and 2 nd half appearances. Finally, the Als will face another opponent next week traveling to Commonwealth Stadium to get a lick on the team that took the Grey Cup ring away from them in Vancouver last November. I hope we see the true potential of this team over a complete four quarters of play. Get yer TV's tuned.
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July 15 , Montreal 44 vs. Winnipeg 16 |
It was what you expected when these two teams glanced at their dance cards this week. This is a bad blood brew since the days when Khari Jones quarterbacked the Winnipeg Blue Bombers who were then in the Eastern Division. The trash-talking had begun, with suggestions the Blue Bomber defensive line were cheap shot artists and the Alouettes were a bunch of whiners. The first half was simply an all out war. With both teams boasting robust defenses they attacked their rival quarterback with gusto. The action in the trenches was positively intense. Winnipeg continued to claw their way into the Alouette offensive backfield to take licks at Anthony Calvillo. But Montreal hardly watched passively. The Als defense was savage on both Winnipeg 's Kevin Glenn, knocking him to the sideline and then smashing backup QB Quinn into the dressing room. Not only that but Butler , Stewart, Ellis, Stickland et al, brutally felled the tall trees of the Blue Bomber offensive line. Huge Blue and Gold lineman were taken off the field as the Als defense took no prisoners. The Als defense simply sparkled and other that being victimized on a first quarter-first play TD bomb to Chris Brazzell, they held Winnipeg in check. The defense had to play big, because the Calvillo offense was positely awful. One fine catch by Thyron Anderson was pretty much all they could muster. Overthrows, predictable throws, and simply dropped-ball throws made the offense dreadful to watch. Thankfully for a finely crafted second quarter special teams play by an onside positioned Kent to recover a Duval third down punt, the Als found themselves deep into Winnipeg territory. And despite the referees blowing a challenged call on a Kerry Watkins touchdown pass, the Als were able to take advantage of a Winnipeg pass interference call and position the ball on the 1 yard line for a Mike Vilimik touchdown plunge. The Als went to the dressing room with a slim 1 point lead. When the bell rang for the second round, it was Winnipeg that became unraveled. With another Clint Kent fumbled punt recovery; the Blue Bombers began to take a stream of discipline penalties which the Alouettes took advantage of. Give Calvillo and his corps credit. Even tough it took three quarters of play to establish a forward momentum it couldn't come at a better time as Winnipeg continued to undermine its own fate with critical penalties. Great TD catches by Anderson and Rrumbing Robert Edwards began to see Montreal pull away. As the Als defense claimed victory in the war of the trenches, the secondary battled successfully against Stoddard and Stegall. They hammered Winnipeg down to win the match decidedly. The Section W Toot -Toot Salute goes to Alouette newcomer Kai Ellis. Monsters at Large: Damon Duval was flawless and executed to perfection when called upon to launch long field goals and precision punting. Clint Kent was a special teams gem with big time plays to set up two Montreal touchdowns. Stickland, Stewart and Wayne were stomping on Bombers. I'll bet Winnipeg coach Berry had a Monster Headache after this game, continually blowing his top over some questionable referee calls, while I am waiting for The Don to thow out a challenge towel to challenge a challenge. He loves that yellow towel. The Alouettes dropping balls (Stalla, Watkins, Wilson ) has got to stop. This is simply unacceptable. The team has but a few days to put their fists in ice and get ready for yet another game against another familiar foe … Hamilton . See ya there.
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July 6 , Montreal 27 vs. Hamilton 21 |
Perhaps not perfect, but this win was more about taking advantage of TigerCat errors than taking control of the game. The visiting Hamilton TigerCats could not help but keep shooting themselves in the foot with unforced errors and special team collapses. Hey, it's not as if the Alouettes played an unblemished game either. Committing 19 penalties for over 195 yards is hardly what you could expect brilliant execution. But Hamilton was unable to take advantage of their chances as the first half of play witnessed a very modest Alouette offense generate very little on-field rhythm on the field. Thankfully, once again in this tender young year, the defense came to play. Big plays by Richard Karikari, Duane Butler and Chip Cox kept Hamilton receivers off balance while TiCat QB Jason Maas was continually rattled by the likes of Anwar Stewart, Louis Mackey and Jerome Haywood. Anthony Calvillo has yet to find the form we expect from him, though his tempo in the fourth quarter suggested that his reads and decisions were getting better. He began to frequently connect with Ben Cahoon (7 for 62) which greatly helped establishing some forward progress down the field. Calvillo's favorite target in the first half seemed to be Kerry Watkins (6 for 67). Penalties and turnovers continued to snuff out much bigger yardage and if it wasn't for TigerCat special teams meltdowns (horrific third down fake punt, too many men penalties, and the pivotal blocked punt for and Alouette touchdown) this game could have easily gone the other way. Big play hero once again is the veteran-like smarts of rookie Chip Cox who continues to impress in his downfield coverage and special teams play. His ‘up-the-gut' blocking of Pat Flemings punt attempt enabled Patrick Dorvelus to scoop up the ball and change the entire complexion of the game. This kid is a keeper. The Section W Toot -Toot Salute this week goes out to one of our unsung Alouette Aerial Gladiators – Darrel Crutchfield. Monsters At Large: Anwar Stewart has the speed and execution we remember from two years ago. Louis Mackey hits so hard it rattles my own plastic cup of beer! The O-Line is looking like a damn fortress out there, protecting Anthony and opening up some nice gaps for Rrumbling Robert. Jason Maas is failing badly when it seems everyone's expectations were so high. Hamilton is deep in a hole that's beginning to look like last year, which is not good for a town that has been very patient up until now. Next game is against a very talented and spirited Winnipeg Blue Bomber team. This will be a good test for Anthony and the Offence to build on the fourth quarter success in this game. |
June 24, Montreal 32 vs. Hamilton 14 |
It was the home opener for the Hamilton Tiger Cats, a team that is boasting its best lineup in quite a few years. QB Jason Maas, Josh Ranek, Cory Holmes, Terry Vaughn are just some of the big name players added to a team that suffered badly last year. With the Alouettes arriving with a single notch in the win column of this fresh year, the Tiger Cats had something to prove to their home crowd. Problem was, a rash of bad penalties and turnovers plagued the Cats early and the Alouettes pounced on the opportunities to pin their opponent's ears to the mat. An early Josh Ranek The Als offence became unglued when Calvillo settled down with a few receptions to Terrence Edwards and O'Neil Wilson but the ball really moved when he started to focus on ol' reliable # 86 in the 3 rd quarter. Cahoon runs such impeccable routes and is able to dig down to turf level or stretch out horizontally to pull in any pass that Calvillo throws. His touchdown grab in coffin corner early in the 3 rd quarter was amazing. The Als defense completely shut down the TigerCats in the 2 nd half. But by the same token, other than the Calvillo-Cahoon connection and a pair of 4 th quarter field goals by Duval, the Als failed to show and killer instinct with untimely turnovers by both Calvillo and Lapointe fumbles. The game had a very difficult flow with referee flags flying at will throughout the game. It became almost hysterical because rarely did a play get off when it wasn't whistled down with an infraction. A game total of 27 penalties were dished out. Who could conceive that this year's referee corps could be that efficient? Or that bad. The Section W Toot-Toot Salute this game goes to Ben Cahoon. Monsters at Large: Defense, Defense, Defense. How about the big physical play of Crutchfield, Brightful and Butler each with 5 tackles. Damon Duval is getting a nice SWEET steady toe on that ball, while Hamilton 's Boreham is positively stiff. Where is Thyron Anderson? Has he faded from the playbook to be replaced by surprising efforts by T. Edwards and O'Neil? Eric Lapointe is distracted about something because it's not often he miscues on the two important plays they gave him (a fake 3 rd down punt play was the key one). Chip Cox is a natural fit for the CFL. He's proving to be a real gamer (do we miss Davis Sanchez in the line-up?). A week layoff for the team over the Canada Day week-end and then it's the same TigerCats who will make the the trip to Montreal for another edition of the Thrill on the Hill. See ya there. [Get it off your chest .... HERE!]
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June 16, Montreal 27 vs. Winnipeg 17 |
It's another new season and a whole lot of getting to know who's who on the 2006 Alouette defense this year. But if this season opener is any indication of what we're in store for, this unit should be very fast and aggressive. Kicking the new season off at home against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers (the third game in a row considering the two exhibition games), witnessed a bend but don't break defense supporting a sputtering offense to say the least. Calvillo was hard pressed to find a rhythm in the first half, moving the ball into Bomber territory but unable to drive it into the end zone. Als kicker Damon Duval could have lit up the scoreboard on the first couple of drives but his first kicks of 34 and 41 yards sailed wide. Winnipeg QB Kevin Glenn showed first half flair using stalwarts Charles Roberts and Milt Stegall to put the visitors on the scoreboard in the first quarter. But by half time, even with the Bombers enjoying the better field position, the Alouettes went to the locker room trailing only by three points. Both defenses in the third quarter battled in a saw-off, with the only points coming from a blocked punt off the foot of Damon Duval. Blocked by Stanford Samuels and scooped by a high-stepping Ike Charlton into the end zone, the Blue Bombers took advantage of an Alouette special team's breakdown and increased their lead to 17-7 at the end of three quarters. The fourth quarter was where the Als finally got unglued. Taking advantage of some sloppy penalties taken by Winnipeg , Calvillo began to throw strikes to Cahoon, Wilson and Terrence Edwards. Rrumbling Robert Edwards banged in couple of short yardage touchdowns and in less that 15 minutes, the Als had scored 20 points to beat the gassed-out Bombers. The Section W Toot-Toot Salute goes out to rookie defensive back Chip Cox. Monsters at Large: How about the performances of Lamont Brightful. 2 tackles and 24 yards on 6 returns. Some steady work there. Lets not forget Etienne Boulay with a nice 44 yard missed field goal return and a couple of special team tackles as well. The new guys are all showing some great promise. Next game is against the new and improved Hamilton Tiger Cats in Ivor Wynn Stadium. Should be a good one. |
The Als kept it simple. Hand the ball off to Rrumbling Robert and grind the ball forward, using up the clock and converting key second down plays. Edwards was a bull in the second half, churning behind his offensive line and making bigger plays than the Miami Dolphin guy. Down by 9 points going into the fourth quarter, the Alouette scored 13 points on an Edwards's touchdown and a pair of Duval field goals. The momentum had swung to Montreal 's side with the game capping off with a Lamont Brightful interception to snuff out any hope for an Argo comeback. 
is quarterback Anthony Calvillo. Anthony responded to the critics and the pressure by remaining calm when penalties stumbled drives, throwing with zip and accuracy, running with the ball for key gains, knowing when to stay or slip out his pass protect pocket and finally putting the ball squarely in the hands of the two men who will take us to the Cup, namely Cahoon and Rumbling Robert Edwards. This was vintage Calvillo, served at perfect temperature. Big Thumbs Up Anthony! 
of football who turned up at not only the Olympic Stadium, but all the fields across Quebec . The spirit of the game is celebrated and enjoyed by young and old and duly recognized by the official Fan Day at the Big Owe. Thumbs-Up to One and All and continue to support your local and favorite teams. 
Starting well on an opening game 55 yard toss to Kerry Watkins, the Als neatly set the table with crisp and efficient 31 yard Damon Duval field goal. Yet Kerry Joseph was equal to the task with great throws to Matt Dominquez and ground work provided by sturdy running back Shermar Bracey. Alouettes could not take advantage of a Kai Ellis blocked field goal attempt in the second quarter, but Calvillo used this receivers well, spreading the ball to Dave Stalla, Terrence Edwards and Watkins. Shaun Diner made some good possession catches, his first receptions in the CFL, as Calvillo allowed the absence of Ben Cahoon to create an invitation to the other receivers to step up and take charge. Rrumbling Robert Edwards scored a pair of touchdowns, his best one being a third down plunge from the 1 yard line. Rookie Chip Cox made a great tip-drill interception and Duane Taylor picked off Kerry Joseph as well. One of the most difficult things to understand was some calls made by the refs. Especially on video replay challenge, what the refs see or don't see is confusing. While we are all watching Glen Suitor of TSN highlight replay evidence to show a Roughrider fumble, the refs somehow see something different. But the game wasn't lost on challenges or refereeing. Montreal lost this game because they couldn't close the deal. They couldn't stuff the elusive Kerry Joseph when the needed to. They couldn't stop Dominquez (who had 135 yards receiving). And they can't stop taking penalties at the most critical of times. A Chip Cox roughing the kicker and Kerry Watkins offside (wiping out another Rrumbling Robert touchdown ... his second this year to be negated by offside receivers, the first committed by his own brother Terrence) were tough. In order to make take over first place, the Alouettes are going to have to play efficient and mistake free football. It must be realized that now is the crunch time of the season which will make the final season game at Skydome monumental in importance. 
Since joining the Alouettes, Rrumbling Robert's younger brother has taken whatever field time he's been given to make some good plays. It's evident that Calvillo is gaining more confidence in this University of Georgia graduate, as his six catches totaled 77 yards, many of those being after catch yards. High Five Terry! 
Number 9 recorded 1 tackle, 1 knockdown and two very key QB sacks. He was a vital part of the Alouette Sack Attack. Atta-boy Anwar!
that played with vigor and determination. Led by Ed Philion and Anwar Stewart the defense was solid. Ricky Bell played his best game this season. Adriano Belli was literally smashing Bomber O-lineman. Romero, Butler and Strickland were great. They responded to the challenge of shutting down Kevin Glenn when called upon. They regained the physical presence they had at the beginning of the year. A deserved Thumbs-Up to the D-fence. ! 
Cobourne. His electrifying 95 yard return of an errant Westwood field goal electrified not only the fans but the Alouette bench came alive with emotion and hope. It was a strategic momentum changing play that the struggling offense needed to attack the end zone. Great Job Avon . 
Kerry caught only 4 passes but made 83 yards out of them including two touchdowns. He took a number of jarring hits and still came back to the huddle intact. Good Job Kerry! 
He was the lone TD receiver for the Als, caught 8 passes for almost 70 yards and seemed involved in the mix of things earlier on in the game, when things seemed to matter. Thumbs-Up Thyron. 
The 
The aptly nicknamed ‘Mack Truck' (Robocop), delivered such a physical hit on Damon Allen it took the veteran out of the game with cobwebs. In came Argo backup Wynn whose ineffectiveness gave the Alouette's a breather. Mack Truck hits hard and often and is a welcome addition to this year's defense. Good Job Louis! 
Perhaps lady luck was going to be against them as it appeared nearly all the balls Calgary lost on the ground they were able to recover, unlike the Alouettes. Calgary 's Henry Burris and Jeremaine Copeland made great individual plays, Burris with some key running plays to sustain Stampeder drives, and Copeland played what even he might consider his best game this year. Alouettes set the pace early in the game, scoring on a Rrumbling Robert touchdown. Throughout the game, Calvillo used Watkins, Cahoon and Anderson with sharp passing. As well, Calvillo focused on Terrence Edwards who caught 4 passes for 52 yards and a touchdown. At one point of the game it was Calvillo playing with the Edwards brothers all alone, handing off to Rrumbling Robert and throwing to Terrence. Rrumbling Robert was a force with the ball this game with 12 carries for 76 yards and a touchdown as well. However his two fumbles caused the derailment of some fine offensive drives, proving costly to the Alouettes. The Alouette defense played a menacing role on the field, holding Joffrey Reynolds to 58 yards, but had difficulty containing the mobile Burris. Crutchfield, Philion and Stewart played big games, the latter two picking up a QB sack each. But the big story of this game was the magical toe of Stampeder kicker Sandro DeAngelis. With the Alouette offense stalling out in the 4 th quarter, unable to sustain first downs and maintain their lead, Calgary battled back. With field position assisted to them by penalties, Stampeders moved the ball against a resisting Alouette defense. Not just once, but twice Calgary lined up DeAngleis from midfield, the first time connecting with a 52 yard field goal, and then with no time left, another bazooka field goal from 53 yards to win the game. Give Calgary credit for taking advantage of the opportunities they were given and now the Alouettes must begin a new winning streak. 
Leading the Als with 7 tackles and one force fumble, Tim is the leader of a squad that flys around the field in pack mentality. Initiating gang tackles on Reynolds and licks on Lewis, Tim is a vital piece in the success of this defense. Thumbs-Up Tim! 
Okeke, Flory, Lambert, Chiu and Archer all hung together and sometimes in new positions with Mudge and Fritz both on the fritz. They dominated the line of scrimmage and blew holes through the Argo line to spring loose Rrumbling Robert. This is two games in a row that they have noticeably held the opponent charges back. Plus, I'm sure they must have been very hungry. Rumor has it that with each 100 yard game Edwards gets, he treats the Big O's to supper. And it won't be a bowl of cereal either! 
Fourth quarter action saw the teams take off the gloves and start flailing. Ricky Ray opened up the quarter with a touch down pass to Mike Mauer who hurtled over Sanchez into the end zone. Calvillo quickly responded by putting together a masterful drive downfield. Slowly picking aparts the Eskimo defenders with passes to Girard, Anderson and Cahoon, the Als drove downfield. The Offensive Line was perfect in execution, opening up a gaping hole for Rrumbling Robert Edwards to score a 13 yard touchdown. The Als had to be very thankful of some crucial mistakes by Edmonton . First, there was the 18 yard shank punt by Sean Fleming that gave Montreal great field position late in the quarter. Then, just when Montreal's last meaningful drive was almost snuffed out, Eskimo defender Shannon Garret commits a pass interference penalty, giving Calvillo and his corps another chance. A pass to Stala sets up a carbon copy of the first touchdown. Edwards takes the handoff and follows the perfect manipulation of the scrimmage line by The Big O's and rumbles into the end zone to seal the deal. A dramatic finish for a big game against a team we could very likely see again in Winterpeg this November. 
Ben was Brilliant today and because Anthony settled down and threw perfect strikes Ben was able to catch 11 passes for over 150 yards. Though he didn't get a touchdown he set the table for Edwards, Watkins and Anderson. Big Thumbs-up Ben !! 
Ellis's hard hitting was symbolic of the entire Alouette defense as they punched out the Blue Bomber offensive line knocking two starting linemen out of the game and stuffing perennial threat Charles Roberts. Kai's six tackles and aggressive coverage sends the message to the league that this defense will not be taken advantage of. Atta-boy Kai! 
Known for his physical smacks, Darrel displayed some great deep coverage with credit for a key knockdown, four tackles and providing some key leadership in the first half when the Alouettes needed big defensive plays. Carry-On Crutchfield! 
fumble in the 1 st quarter results in an Rrumbling Robert Edwards 1 yard TD. Penalties blow-up any Jason Maas momentum, and then the crazy punt play. Duval hoofs a 46 yarder that skips downfield appearing to ricochet off the toe of Corey Holmes. A charging Chip Cox scoops up the loose ball for an Alouette possession. 
Matthews challenges the original referee decision that no contact between the ball and the punt returner occurred. He wins the challenge and the Alouettes lineup at the 32 and a before you know it, Calvillo finds Watkins all alone for a TD. The Als are not without mistakes in this game either. Poor Eric Lapointe had hell of a time holding onto the ball. His two touch plays were both fumbles which was very unusual for him. Hamilton battled back in the 2 nd quarter for 14 points with TD's from Radlein and Yeast. Thankfully TigerCat field goal kicker Jamie Boreham was doing a Duncan O'Mahoney impersonation and was kicking rocks all over the field. 
With dogged determination he pulled the Als out of a malaise and made some great grab'n'runs to really move those yardsticks. He so much as made an outstanding catch by the sideline, took a bone crushing hit from a Hamilton defender and upon getting up pats the guy on the head as if to say, “Nice hit”(but not enough to stop me)'. 115 yards for Ben today. The success of this offense will again rely on Calvillo's productive use of Cahoon and their success together will help bring big success to the Alouettes. Thumbs-Up Ben! 
His timely two Kevin Glenn interceptions snuffed out any momentum Winnipeg was beginning to show in the fourth quarter. The rookie from Ohio University had been largely ignored in the first half, with Glenn concentrating his throwing to the veteran side of the field against Crutchfield and Ricky Bell. But when called upon, he smartly stepped in front of Blue Bomber receivers and took the ball back into Winnipeg territory to give Calvillo and the offense good field position. Way to Go Cox!