Lions Roar

OVFL:  Cambridge Lions come out on firing on their new field.

It was a stellar performance by the Varsity Cambridge Lions in their season opener against the Sault Ste Marie Sabercats, which had them cruise to 28-15 to open their 2013 season.

At home field and on their new field, the Lions offense came up big in this game. From the beginning,  the offensive line came up big and gave protection to the quarterback.

“The offensive line was fantastic,” said Lions Maggiacomo.

Even with an early injury to the Lions,  the next guy stepped up.

“We were very balanced on offense,” said Maggiacomo. The Lions passed and rushed for over 200 yards each in the game.

Leading the way for the Lions was quarterback James Roberts, who turned in a strong performance.

“He (Roberts) protected the ball,” said Maggiacomo.

With 225 passing yards and adding another 23 on the ground with a score, Roberts threw for two touchdowns, connecting with both Simon Beeksma and Steven Warner.

“Our running backs had a good game,” said Maggiacomo.

With the rushing attack using their three-headed Lion back field of Tyler Woods, Dominic Valincic, with the a touchdown and leading rusher Michael Lynch. Lynch led the way with 86 rushing yards.

On the defense side of the field, the Lions were solid. A defense that had players made some key plays.

Defensive captain Drew Walden led the way as he had a stellar performance with nine tackles and a sack.

“He kept everyone in check everywhere all game,” said Maggiacomo, who also said turnovers on defense were key in the victory.

The Lions key turnovers came via interceptions that were stolen away by Paul Henning and Ashton Pilkey.

On special teams, the Lions were able to put the ball where they needed to and recover two kicks.

” We still have a couple of details to figure out but we will figure them out,” said Maggiacomo.

Overall, the Lions played a great game and came out on top.

“We played well, had a few turnovers and executed when we needed,” said Maggiacomo.

However, there are some areas the Lions need to improve on.

“On both sides of the ball we had some mistakes, too many penalties,” said Maggiacomo.  “We need to start better, both halves they (Sabercats) came out with more aggression, we took too much time can’t do that later.”

Next week the Lions will take on the London Mustangs at TD Waterhouse Stadium on June 1^st at 1:15pm.  This contest is gearing up to be a good contest between two good teams.

If we execute we have an opportunity,” said Maggiacomo