The team continued to show no signs of championship fatigue as they beat the Chatham-Kent Cougars 17-5. Both teams played a clean and intense game and had a desire to go out and get a win from the opening kick-off.
“The game was very intense. Not too many dead ball fouls or late hits, just a good clean hard hitting football game,” said Predators coach Kevin Horn.
The win helped the Predators remain undefeated, the team now has 7 wins and zero loses, however more important to the team was capturing home field advantage. The victory helped the Predators secure home field advantage throughout the South division playoffs as the team looks to win back-to-back championships.
Quarterback Adam Christopher played the entire first half, going for 9 of16 with one interception and a touchdown for 124 yards. Addie Cober played the second half and completed 8 of 12 throws for 74 yards with one interception.
“The first half/second half formula had worked well for us last week against Huronia, so we decided to try it again,” said Horn.
The team’s top receivers were Markus Joseph with 51 yards, Brandon Nickel with 38 yards and a touchdown and Theshawn Berry with 23 yards receiving. Their top back for the game was Nate Walker with 25 yards rushing.
The Predators defence sunk their teeth into the Cougars the entire game as they only surrendered one field goal. Defensive backs Brandon Seip and Reid Denstedt both had interceptions, with Reid returning his for a touchdown. The defensive line and linebackers put up a wall against the Cougar’s running game and put some great pressure on the passer. Brandon Lieu, Patrick Gerrie and Zah Degen each recorded sacks.
However, coach Horn stressed the team can never sit back and relax or be satisfied until the ultimate goal is reached.
“We will be looking to round into playoff form next week against Hamilton and we are never satisfied with a win,” he said. “We will continue to work hard to be the best team in the OFC and pursue our ultimate goal of back-to-back championships.”
With the playoffs around the corner, the champions will have a bull’s-eye on their back and the competition will surely step up their game in the post season.
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