Ontario Dominates Nova Scotia 58-0 in 2024 Football Canada Cup Opener

July 8th – REGINA, SK – Team Ontario launched their 2024 Football Canada Cup campaign with a commanding 58-0 victory over Nova Scotia on Sunday, July 7, at Mosaic Stadium in Regina, Saskatchewan.

From the opening whistle, Ontario established their dominance. The game’s tone was set early when Matthew Stam electrified the crowd with a 58-yard punt return touchdown just over three minutes into the contest. Ontario’s offense quickly found its rhythm, with McAllaster Holmes capping off a 61-yard drive with a 1-yard touchdown run. The defensive unit joined the scoring fray, forcing a safety to push the lead to 16-0 before the first quarter concluded.

As the game progressed, Ontario’s passing attack came alive. Quarterback Riley Chalmers connected with Gabriel Hamilton for a 17-yard touchdown strike, showcasing the team’s aerial prowess. Chalmers continued to impress, finding Matthew Stam for a 24-yard score. The Ontario defense refused to be outdone, with Carter Gooden intercepting a Nova Scotia pass and returning it 19 yards to the end zone. By halftime, Ontario had built an insurmountable 39-0 lead.

The second half saw Ontario maintain their intensity. The defense recorded another safety, and kicker Zachary Aubin demonstrated his reliability by converting all seven of his extra-point attempts and adding a 40-yard field goal. McAllaster Holmes took over quarterback duties in the fourth quarter, throwing a 9-yard touchdown to Gabriel Hamilton and later breaking free for a spectacular 53-yard touchdown run to conclude the scoring.

Ontario’s offensive juggernaut amassed 340 total yards, with a balanced attack of 185 rushing yards and 155 passing yards. The ground game was led by Massimo Ferrone-Byrd, who gained 69 yards on 8 carries. Through the air, Mason McLaughlin was the top receiver with 50 yards on 2 catches.

Defensively, Ontario was equally impressive, limiting Nova Scotia to a mere 24 total yards. The defensive front was relentless, holding Nova Scotia to just 18 rushing yards on 9 attempts. Garrett Scott anchored the defense with 4.5 tackles and a fumble recovery, while Darcy Winsor contributed 3 tackles and a pass breakup.

Nova Scotia struggled to gain traction throughout the game. Quarterback Jesse Allison completed 8 of 19 passes for 72 yards but was intercepted once. Omyo Thomas was a bright spot for Nova Scotia, catching 3 passes for 45 yards. On defense, Payton Flint made his presence felt with 4 tackles and 2 interceptions.

The 2024 Football Canada Cup continues with games on Wednesday, July 10, and Saturday, July 13. Ontario’s dominant performance sets a high bar as they pursue the national championship.

For full stats information and full tournament schedule, visit www.footballcanada.com.

About the Football Canada Cup: The Football Canada Cup is a prestigious event in the Canadian football calendar, showcasing the best U18 male talent from across the country. This tournament serves as a crucial platform for player development and provides a pathway for athletes aspiring to compete at higher levels, including U SPORTS, NCAA, national team programs, and professional football.

About Football Canada: Football Canada is the national governing body for amateur football in Canada. Football Canada’s mission is to initiate, sustain, and encourage programs, services, and activities targeted at all levels of the game of football in Canada. The organization oversees various programs and competitions, including national championships, coach and official certification programs, and national team programs for tackle, flag, and touch football. Football Canada is committed to fostering the growth and development of football at all levels across the country.

About Football Saskatchewan: Football Saskatchewan is the provincial sport governing body for amateur football in Saskatchewan. The organization is dedicated to promoting, developing, and governing all aspects of football within the province. Football Saskatchewan works tirelessly to provide opportunities for athletes, coaches, and officials at all levels of the sport. Through various programs and initiatives, they aim to increase participation, improve the quality of play, and create a positive and inclusive football community throughout Saskatchewan. As hosts of this year’s Football Canada Cup, Football Saskatchewan demonstrates its commitment to advancing youth football and showcasing the province’s sporting capabilities on a national stage.