In a fiercely contested match between the Ottawa Swans and the Grand River Gargoyles, it was the Swans who soared to victory with a final score of 9.9.63 to 5.2.32 to capture the inaugural return of the Canada Cup.
From the opening bounce, both teams displayed their attack on the ball, skills and determination, setting the stage for an exciting clash. The Swans, known for their fluid ball movement and precision kicking, showed their prowess early on, finding gaps in the Gargoyles’ defence and converting their opportunities into goals.
However, the Gargoyles refused to back down. With some tenacious tackling from Tyler “Tigger” Parsons and Jon “Hodgey” Hodge in the midfield, they fought tooth and nail to close the gap. Their relentless pressure caused the Swans to make some uncharacteristic errors, giving the Gargoyles a glimmer of hope.
As the game progressed, the Gargoyles battled back with help from a 55 meter torpedo goal from Ben “Beyonce” Knowles to draw the game back within reach heading into the 4th quarter.
In the end, the drive east on the 401 ended up getting the best of the Gargoyles as crucial players cramped in the Manotick heat and the Ottawa Swans emerged victorious, securing a well-deserved win. The Grand River Gargoyles can hold their heads high, knowing they gave it their all, battled through injury and left everything on the field.
Despite the disappointment of the loss, the Gargoyles can take pride in their efforts and the commitment they displayed by bringing a full 21 players to Ottawa for the first time since 2015.
They will return home next weekend to face the Hamilton Wildcats at Margaret Greene Park in Guelph. The bounce will be at 1pm.