Different year, same result. The Queen’s Gaels extended their win streak over McMaster to nine games on Saturday afternoon, dominating the Marauders in a 38–4 victory.
The game started slowly. Queens would score a field goal before conceding a safety to end the first quarter with a narrow 3-2 lead. It wasn't until the second frame that the Gaels would blow the game wide open.
First, Nathan Falconi was the on the receiving end of a nice dish by quarterback Alex Vreeken, to make it 10-2.
Shortly after, halfback/receiver Mateo Tuioti powered through the defense for his second touchdown of the year. Running back Ethan Dahl would run in for another score, giving Queen’s a 24-2 lead.
McMaster then conceded a safety to make the score 26-2 at the half.
The third quarter was all about the defence. A huge stop by All-Canadian linebacker Justin Pace on third and inches would prevent the Marauders from scoring a touchdown.
Queen’s then converted another field goal and gave up a safety to make the score 29-4 after three.
The Gaels would put the final nail in the coffin in the last quarter.
On the first drive of the quarter, Jared Chisari would rip through the defence for a 47 yard run, setting up another rushing touchdown.
Thankfully for the Marauders faithful in attendance at the home opener, the score mostly finished there, save for another two-point safety.
It was the solid bounce back win the Gaels needed after a heartbreaking loss to Western in Week 1.
Next week will prove to be a bigger test. Queen's will welcome defending Yates Cup champions Laurier to Richardson Stadium on Friday at 7 p.m.
For McMaster, Week 3 will serve as a bye before a roadtrip to Windsor.
Game Notes
The Gaels' multi-faceted ground game was good for 195 yards on the day, with Chisari leading the way with 115. McMaster managed just 42 yards on 21 attempts.
Gaels backup quarterback Alex Lio entered the game in the fourth quarter and completed 4-of-6 passes for 77 yards.
With 108 yards on the day, Gaels receiver Jack Ashby-Jacobs had a career performance, entering the game with 232 yards in his career across 11 games.