Edmonton Elks Snatch Dramatic 28-23 Victory Over Montreal Alouettes in Late-Game Surge
Edmonton, AB – August 12, 2024 – In a stunning finish at Commonwealth Stadium, the Edmonton Elks overcame a series of injuries and a halftime deficit to defeat the Montreal Alouettes 28-23. The victory marks Edmonton’s first road win of the season and a crucial momentum shift for the team.
The game was a back-and-forth affair, characterized by defensive plays and offensive resilience from both sides. montreal initially appeared to be in control,but a pivotal interception return touchdown by edmonton defensive back Tyrell Ford,his first career touchdown,late in the second quarter dramatically altered the game’s trajectory. Ford’s 87-yard return cut the Alouettes’ lead to just two points heading into halftime.
Elks head coach Chris Kilam emphasized the impact of Ford’s play, stating it “jump-started the football team” after a period of offensive stagnation. “The guys always believed,” Kilam added.
The Alouettes responded early in the third quarter with a nine-play, 4 ½-minute drive culminating in a 19-yard touchdown pass from quarterback cody Fajardo to receiver Hergy Mayala. However, the ensuing extra point attempt by David Maltos Diaz sailed wide right, leaving Montreal with a 19-11 lead.
Edmonton quickly capitalized on a fumble forced by defensive end Kordell Jackson, recovering posession and driving downfield for a one-yard touchdown pass from Fajardo to receiver Jalen Julien-Grant. The Elks attempted a two-point conversion to tie the game, but the attempt failed, keeping the Alouettes ahead 19-17.
Despite a third field goal from Maltos Diaz,extending the lead to 22-17,the Elks continued to fight. A late-game touchdown pass from Fajardo to receiver Noah Gindras, followed by a triumphant extra point, sealed the 28-23 victory for Edmonton.
The Alouettes faced notable challenges throughout the game, battling a lengthy injury list. In addition to previously sidelined players like receiver Austin Mack, Tyson Philpot, and defensive back Marc-Antoine Dequoy, running back Sean Thomas-Erlington was forced to leave the game in the third quarter following a collision with Kordell Jackson. Thomas-Erlington sustained an apparent upper-body injury and did not return. Head coach Jason Maas indicated post-game that the injury is not season-ending and will be re-evaluated before their next contest.
The Alouettes were also without receiver Greg Ellingson, who was a late scratch due to a hamstring injury.
Context & Future Outlook:
The Canadian Football League (CFL) is currently in its 111th season,with ten teams competing for the Gray Cup championship. The Edmonton Elks, historically a powerhouse franchise with ten Grey Cup victories (1954, 1956, 1975, 1978, 1981, 1982, 1985, 1987, 1993, 2005), have struggled in recent years, finishing with a 4-14 record in 2023. This win represents a significant step forward for the Elks, who are looking to rebuild and return to their former glory.
The Montreal Alouettes, boasting a strong history with seven Grey Cup championships (1946, 1949, 1950, 1970, 1974, 1977, 2002), are consistently a competitive force in the CFL. Their current roster features a blend of veteran leadership and emerging talent.
Next Games:
The Edmonton Elks will host the toronto Argonauts at Commonwealth Stadium on Friday, August 16th. The Montreal Alouettes will travel to Vancouver to face the B.C. Lions on Saturday, August 17th.
