Québec looks to make it 5 in a row after downing New Brunswick 52-0 in the opening game of the 2024 U16 Eastern Regional Challenge
Antigonish, NS – July 19, 2024: The opening game of the 2024 U16 Eastern Regional Challenge saw reigning champions Québec overpower New Brunswick with a 52-0 victory at Oland Stadium. Québec, aiming for their fifth consecutive gold medal, delivered a commanding performance.
In the first quarter, Québec’s Jamal Hechme-Oray set the tone with a 30-yard touchdown run. Laurent Lemay added a 35-yard interception return for a touchdown, and the team also secured a safety, ending the quarter at 14-0. New Brunswick’s RB Braedyn Dupont made notable runs, including a 13-yard gain, but faced strong tackles from Québec’s LB Maxym Sugoniako and DB Antoine Simard.
The second quarter saw Québec’s Niaba Chris-Allan Bombo rush for a 1-yard touchdown, followed by a 24-yard field goal from Zachary Rene. Niaba Chris-Allan Bombo then added a 45-yard punt return touchdown, and Zachary Rene caught a 10-yard touchdown pass from QB Olivier Latendresse. Niaba Chris-Allan Bombo continued the scoring in the quarter with a 40-yard touchdown run, making it 45-0. Alexandre Jocelyn added a 9-yard touchdown run to conclude the scoring at 52-0. New Brunswick’s defense showcased resilience, with standout plays including a forced fumble by DB Liam Hachey and solid tackling by DL Brad Moore and DL Conrad Reed. New Brunswick’s QB Brandon Martin worked hard to find openings, completing several passes under pressure, but was consistently challenged by Québec’s defense.
New Brunswick’s defense continued to fight hard in the third quarter, with key tackles by LB Max Hachey and a sack by DL Hayden Lockhart and DL Brad Moore. Despite their efforts, Québec’s offense remained strong and managed to add more points on the board.
The fourth quarter was marked by Québec’s continued offensive success. Despite New Brunswick’s defense, led by DL Brad Moore, making crucial tackles and demonstrating their tenacity, Québec maintained their lead and secured the win. New Brunswick’s QB Brandon Martin continued to show resilience, attempting to drive his team forward despite the relentless pressure from Québec’s defense.
Québec will now face Ontario in the gold medal game on Sunday, July 21st, a rematch of last year’s final. Québec aims to defend their title and secure their fifth consecutive gold medal in the U16 Eastern Challenge. New Brunswick will now face Nova Scotia for the bronze medal on July 21st.
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MVPs of the Game
Québec
Offensive
The Entire Offensive Line
Defensive
DB – Charles Messier
New Brunswick
Offensive
RB – Braedyn Dupont
Defensive
DL – Brad Moore
Full stats and game play-by-play information can be found here.
About U16 Regional Challenges: The U16 East and West Regional Challenges help introduce players and coaches to tournament-style competition as they test their skills against neighboring provinces. These events are crucial for athlete development, serving as a stepping stone toward the under-18 national tackle football championship, the Football Canada Cup, and national team opportunities.
The U16 Eastern Challenge is an integral part of Football Canada’s development pathway, providing young athletes with the opportunity to compete in a tournament setting as they prepare for higher levels of competition. This year, Québec is striving to win its fifth consecutive gold medal, having secured the top prize in the last four editions of the tournament.
About Football Canada: Football Canada is the national governing body for amateur football in Canada. Its mission is to foster and promote the sport of football across the country. Football Canada oversees various programs and competitions, aiming to develop football at all levels and ensure the sport’s growth and sustainability.
About Football Nova Scotia: Football Nova Scotia is dedicated to promoting and developing the sport of football within the province. Through various programs and initiatives, Football Nova Scotia provides opportunities for athletes of all ages to participate in and enjoy the game, fostering a strong football community and encouraging sportsmanship and teamwork.
For more information about the 2024 U16 Eastern Challenge, visit footballcanada.com or contact [email protected].
