John Abbott Islanders taste victory in opener

The John Abbott College Islanders football team looked sharp unveiling their new, pristine jerseys, at least before the rain began to fall. But no worries, they didn’t expect them to remain white for long anyway. In a game that not only debuted the team’s new digs, but also new Head Coach Justin McHugh, the Islanders defeated the Champlain College Cavaliers 26-14 this past Saturday afternoon.

McHugh, who became the fifth coach in Islanders history when he took over from the retired Lou Chapman last December, was happy to finally take the field, let alone get the first win. “Just getting the first game out of the way was relieving,” he expressed. “It’s been a long few months leading up to Saturday, so just getting there was good and then obviously getting the win was great. That’s what we work for after all. I’m very satisfied for the kids.”

The Islanders ran the ball effectively all afternoon, using a two-pronged attack out of the I-formation. Headlining the effort was starting tailback Emmanuel Musangu, who rushed for 143 yards and two touchdowns in three quarters of action. Spelling him for the fourth was Ross Olshansky, who carried the ball 10 times for 54 yards. Fullback Karl Watson chipped in with 33 yards.

The defense was stout for the most part, featuring Mathew Bedward, who led with 5 1⁄2 tackles and added a fumble recovery, as well as defensive back Vince Nardone, who contributed two interceptions. However the unit was heavily penalized in the second half, particularly on Champlain’s second scoring drive, leading Coach McHugh to address the issue of discipline with the players after the game. “We pretty much controlled the game from beginning to end both offensively and defensively except for that drive where we took a few penalties, a couple of them uncalled for on our part,” he said. “The referees are going to call what they’re going to call, but when we take avoidable penalties, those are things that we aren’t going to tolerate.”

The Islanders head to Jonquiere next Saturday before returning home for the annual Homecoming Game on September 12 against College Notre Dame de Foy. Kickoff is at 1pm and fans are encouraged to come out in large numbers. Admission is free, but spectators can support the team by purchasing snacks from the canteen, whose profits go directly to the JAC football program. Additionally, there will be a half and half draw, which netted $150 for last Saturday’s lucky winner- next time it could be you!