This first game of the season gave a glimpse of the motivation and will to win of our youth.
However, gaps in the offensive running game and defence along with some discipline determined the final result.
The Rebels took the lead in the first quarter 10-6. In the second quarter, the Patriots came back to take the lead 19-16.
The third quarter was almost even for both teams and it ended with a slim 2 points lead for the Patriots 25-23.
Everything was decided in the fourth quarter, as a punt return the length of the field allowed the Patriots to actually take the lead.
With the wind in the sails, the Rebels conceded the game to the Patriots 38-23.
After the match, Nicholas Robitaille, coordinator of the offensive, told me his impressions: ”For our first game of the season against a very good club, I am satisfied with the way the offense has performed,” commented Rebels Offensive Coordinator Nicholas Robitaille. “Errors at crucial moments of the game (penalties and turnovers) prevented us to capitalize and take advantage of the many opportunities near the opponent’s goal area.”
“We saw a lot of beautiful things including incredible performances from our two running backs Anthony Allard and Jean Ombeni. Our air attack also performed well as our new quarterback Maxime Corriveau did well both in the pass than the run. Touchdowns were scored by our three receivers Oumar Layini Hugo Chauvin-Poliquin and Gabriel Giguere. This week we will work to correct our little mistakes in order to capitalize on our opportunities to count in the next game.”
For his part, Rebels Head Coach and Defensive Coordinator Marc-Antoine Joseph assessed the defensive play.
”We have a young defensive,” said Joseph. Β “Like any young defence, the execution, assignment and alignment errors gave us little chance against the explosive Patriots offense.”
“But this is only the first game and we know they will be better from game to game. There is no panic. Daniel Lambert, Marc-Antoine and Jean Blanchette Ombeni were particularly impressive as they had tackles and sacks.”
With files from Claude Hardy
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