Saskatchewan protect their house beating Manitoba 36-7 on the opening day of the 2024 Football Canada Cup
July 8th – REGINA, SK – Team Saskatchewan showcased their dominance in their opening game of the 2024 Football Canada Cup, securing a convincing 36-7 victory over Manitoba on Sunday, July 7, at Leibel Field in Regina, Saskatchewan.
Saskatchewan’s well-rounded performance saw them outgain Manitoba in total yardage 365 to 158. The home team established control early, building a 19-0 lead by halftime and never looking back.
Quarterback Nolan Uhren led Saskatchewan’s passing attack, completing 18 of 28 attempts for 227 yards and 3 touchdowns. His primary target was Ben Blackburn, who hauled in 6 receptions for 47 yards and 2 touchdowns. On the ground, Brayden Wolf spearheaded the rushing effort with 52 yards on 10 carries.
Saskatchewan’s special teams also contributed significantly, with Ty Gorniak successfully converting all five of his field goal attempts, including a long of 40 yards.
Manitoba’s offense struggled to find its rhythm against Saskatchewan’s stout defense. Adrian Reaume completed 14 of 21 passes for 138 yards, while the ground game was limited to just 26 yards on 22 attempts. Mikun Odunuga provided a bright spot for Manitoba, scoring their lone touchdown on a 27-yard reception in the fourth quarter.
Defensively, Jesse Deneka was a standout for Manitoba, recording a game-high 9 tackles and 9 assists. For Saskatchewan, Jaik Reich led the defensive effort with 4 tackles and 2 tackles for loss.
The game was characterized by Saskatchewan’s ability to convert on third downs, going 6 for 15, while Manitoba struggled, failing to convert any of their 6 third-down attempts.
The 2024 Football Canada Cup continues with games on Wednesday, July 10, and Saturday, July 13. Saskatchewan’s impressive opening performance positions them as strong contenders in the tournament.
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.
