Thursday, September 07, 2017
Labour Day Classics 2017
Traditionally,
Labour Day is the halfway point of the Canadian Football League
season. Rosters are pretty well set, players are adjusting to
coaching methods, expectations become more realistic. The games that
are played on Labour Day have been referred to as “Classics” for
many years. Last Monday's game was an exception to the rule.
Mother
Nature helped decide the outcome of the game in Hamilton between the
Ticats and the Toronto Argonauts. At the start of the game, the winds
howled from one end to the other, affecting the coin toss. Winners
had to decide whether or not they should: A. Take the end with the
wind at their backs. B. Receive the kickoff. C. Defer the decision to
the start of the second half. It was a significant factor in the
choice.
Once the
first quarter was completed, the weather took over the game. The
rains came, the winds continued to howl, the lightning flashed. The
referee stopped the game and sent the players to their dressing
rooms. The fans were advised to leave their seats, and find cover.
(One consequence was that the concession stands did a booming
business!) The game was put on hold for the weather to clear.
Officials
stood around checking their smart phones every thirty seconds, hoping
for a reprieve. Two hours later, the second quarter recommenced, and
the fans were treated to yet another barn burner of Canadian
football. The winds subsided, even changed direction as the game
progressed.
When the
referee signalled the end of the game, the Ticats emerged victorious,
albeit by the skin of their fangs. Joy returned to Steeltown. It was
their first victory of the season, after eight losses. Any victory
against your arch rival is extra special. There was no love lost in
the game, nor will there ever be.
The Ticats
now cross the province to face the RED/BLACKS in Ottawa this coming
Saturday. The Ottawa squad now sits in first place, due to the
Toronto loss. Last Thursday, the knocked off the Montreal Alouettes
32-4 at Percival Molson Stadium in Montreal. Also known as McGill
Stadium, it is a wonderful place to watch a football game.
Unofficial RED/BLACKS Cheering section
The
RED/BLACKS made significant changes after last season. The had won
the Grey Cup, but sveral players left the fold, for many reasons.
Trevor Harris took the helm at quarterback, and has spent the first
half of the season finding a rhythm. He has a wonderful core of
receivers to work with, and Moses Madu in the backfield to carry the
load, when required. Greg Ellingson, Brad Sinopoli, Jake Harty, Josh
Stangby and Deonte Spencer can pull in short and long passes to keep
the opposition busy.
David and Arty with the Cup
The
RED/BLACKS host the Ticats on their final game of the season, October
27th. At that point in time, preparations will begin to
dress up TD Stadium for the hosting of the Grey Cup. Shania Twain
will perform at half time. A perfect combination of Canadian content.
Alice Loves the RED/BLACKS!!
Southside
fans will be ready this Saturday, especially with their chant of,
“Move those chains!” whenever Ottawa gets a first down. Buckle
your seat belt for another half season of CFL football!!
James Hurst
September 5,
2017.
# posted by James Hurst @ 1:40 PM 
