The Ottawa REDBLACKS dropped a heartbreaker to the Winnipeg Blue Bombers 36-34 after four overtime rounds at TD Place.
Despite the loss, the REDBLACKS put together their most complete effort on the season, but with a few plays they’ll likely want back, including plenty of opportunities for interceptions that they just couldn’t come down with, they’ll have plenty to think about heading into the bye week.
“We’ve got to try and take something positive out of it, I thought we played better football but we’re still not making the plays we need to, to win football games,” said Head Coach and General Manager Ryan Dinwiddie. “It’s positive strides, but we’re win a win/loss results business. “
On the offensive side, running back Greg Bell had his most productive game of the season, posting 94 all purpose yards, while Kalil Pimpleton added five receptions for 101 yards and Ayden Eberhardt continued his strong form with five receptions for 92 yards. The reliable Justin Hardy had six receptions and a touchdown and quarterback Bryson Barnes punched one in from the goal line for his third major on the season.
Jake Maier had another strong performance, completing 30 of 40 passes 344 yards with a touchdown and an interception. He notes that while they did some things better this week, there’s plenty of frustration that the results aren’t going their way.
“I just think we’re trying to do the best we can to focus on the things we’re doing well. The results are what they are but I think everyone in the locker has a real feeling of if we just did one thing better, we’d probably be the ones celebrating right now. The results are what they are but it’s more about how well can we play and how well can each individual play.
The REDBLACKS went into the fourth quarter with a 17-point lead but were unable to close the deal in the final frame, something the club says they’ll look add over the coming bye week.
“We’re going to self scout, run the numbers and look at the stats and our schemes. Then we’ve got to watch every play from the season, see where we’re at and have a detailed write up of what we can do better and what we need to improve on. We’re not getting certain things done properly. We’re going to do a lot of self reflecting but we’ll be working.” Head Coach and General Manager Ryan Dinwiddie.
After the week away, the REDBLACKS will return to TD Place to host the Montreal Alouettes on Friday, July 31.
