An important victory since the CNDF obviously preserves their immaculate record (6-0) in addition to ensuring they play a semi-final match at home in the division 1 college league. Head coach Marc-André Dion was obviously happy with the result.
“It’s not perfect and I think we’re leaving points on the field, but it’s still a big victory for us. It’s been since 2017 since we last beat the Titans in the regular season.”
Trailing 12 to 8 at the half, Dion ensures that the atmosphere was relaxed in the locker room.
“We did what we had to do. We adjusted offensively. Limoilou is a team that uses the bliz a lot and our quarterback Thomas Leroux took advantage of it to make big plays with his legs. Defensively, we tightened our coverages and we were tougher on the ground.”
A physical match
Final year carrier Paul Alfred Kamdem Kamdem was very solid for the locals. He scored three important rushing touchdowns to lead his team to victory. Number 1 was very happy to finally beat the Titans.
“It’s a team effort and I can say that every yard gained tonight was a constant battle. It’s always very difficult to race against them and it’s a really good rivalry. These are fun games to play,” he explains.
The six-foot, 225-pound carrier was clearly very pleased with the result.
“It’s a feeling of accomplishment that I have after this victory. Another win and we ensure we finish in first place, which is major in this league. I liked the way we regrouped during the game after a slow start and our offensive line played a big game.”
In control
Quarterback Thomas Leroux played a strong game for his team. The number 18 of the CNDF always demonstrates more confidence in each match played.
“We didn’t come out strong, but we improved throughout the match. We were behind at the half, but it was a one-possession gap. The guys were confident in the locker room.”
Leroux also put his legs to work during the play which completely changed the look of the match. Tied 15-15 at the start of the fourth quarter, he scampered 30 yards and brutalized an opponent who was trying to tackle him to score the touchdown that gave his team the lead. Her team never looked back afterward.
“Limoilou plays differently defensively than all the other teams on the circuit. It is sometimes difficult to find free areas at aerial level. I took what he gave me and managed to sneak around to gain yards. Our receivers blocked my runs well.”
Limoilou Titans head coach Dave Parent. (Erick Labbé/Archives Le Soleil)
Heads held high among the Titans
Losing head coach Dave Parent saw a lot of positives despite his team’s defeat. He praised the work of his opponents.
“We played a good game and Thomas made big plays like he has been doing since the start of the season for the CNDF. We had our chances and we missed a big third down in the second half which hurt us, but that happens in football.
Parent, who has just suffered three consecutive defeats at the helm of his team, ultimately believes that this adversity will pay off for his club.
“It’s not the usual for us, but we’re going to the right place and we’re going to be there at the end. We just need our players to live in the present and not in the past. We play André-Grasset again in two weeks and playing against the best will help us, I am convinced.”
All clubs in the D1 college league now benefit from a one-week break in the regular schedule. All formations will return to action in two weeks.
