The Golden Gaels football season began on Monday in the same fashion in which it ended last November—with a closely contested but disappointing loss. The eighth-ranked Gaels travelled to Windsor and came home with a 30-28 defeat. Two key differences emerged between Monday’s game and last year’s semifinal overtime exit against Laurier, though. First, the weather was humid and uncomfortable at Windsor Stadium, with temperatures reaching 32 degrees. As a result, the negative effects of any shortcomings on offense were magnified through their impact on the defense. “The offense occasionally left the defense strung out and tired,” fourth-year receiver Iain Fleming told the Journal.
It was also the Gaels’ first game without two-time CIS MVP Tom Denison under center. The Gaels platooned two second-year quarterbacks, Ali Clarkson and last year’s second-stringer Ryan Sheahan. Sheahan got off to a rough start, throwing an interception on his first pass of the season, and another on the second series. He was hit hard on both occasions. The less than solid protection provided by the offensive line is a reflection of the fact that the unit returns only two starters from last year, third-year left tackle Ryan Freeman, and last year’s Queen’s rookie-of-the-year, center Sean O’Donnell.
The Gaels’ defense kept them in the game early on.
“We made a lot of good stands. There were a lot of two and outs for them,” fourth-year linebacker Craig Losos said. Fourth-year defensive end Matt Kirk anchored the unit with three sacks. First-year defensive back Matthew Vickers was also impressive in his Queen’s debut, picking off a pass.
Queen’s entered the locker room at halftime down only 16-9, despite the fact Fleming admits that the offense was not clicking.
“We needed to get rid of the rust,” he said.
The Gaels gained momentum in the second half. However, an unfortunate string of offensive offsides and other penalties resulted in a number of big plays being called back. These letdowns deflated the team as a whole, and thus played a major role in the loss.
“We beat ourselves,” said Losos.
In spite of the result, there were several encouraging signs for the Gaels. The defensive unit was largely solid, and their offensive counterparts showed great potential.
“The offense had several sustained drives,” said Losos.
In the receiving corps, Fleming, a second-team OUA All-Star, built on his superb play of last season with two touchdowns against Windsor. Besides the stalwart Fleming several first time dressers made great first impressions, notably first-year receivers Scott Valberg and Alex Patrick.
Both quarterbacks showed great promise, connecting on several long throws. For now, the quarterback situation remains unresolved, with both players battling for the starter’s designation. While it may appear that Clarkson has the early edge after throwing for 205 yards, two touchdowns and one interception, Sheahan had comparable numbers, if you take away a few mistakes. Sheahan finished with 165 yards, a touchdown and three interceptions.
Fans of the Gaels should expect to see both quarterbacks in tomorrow’s 4 p.m. game against Guelph. It will be their first chance to get a closer look at both new pivots. Each is anticipated to play a major role in the Gaels’ attempt to rebound from their frustrating opening loss. “We’re going to take it out on Guelph,” said Fleming.
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