The Montréal Carabins triumphed over the Laval Rouge et Or with a score of 31-29, securing the Dussault Cup. This victory also propels the Carabins to the Uteck Bowl. The game showcased thrilling plays and standout performances from both teams.
Key Moments in the Dussault Cup Final
Laval took an early lead, with Arnaud Desjardins, the conference’s Most Valuable Player, connecting on a 53-yard touchdown pass to Isaac Gaillardetz. By the end of the first quarter, Laval led 8-0 after scoring a rouge.
However, the Carabins responded vigorously in the second quarter. Pepe Gonzalez, named Rookie of the Year, threw touchdown passes to Enrique Jaimes Leclair and Natan Girouard-Langlois. Additionally, the defense contributed with two safeties, and Philippe Boyer kicked a 12-yard field goal, leading 21-8 at halftime.
Turnaround and Late Drama
Gonzalez opened the third quarter with an 18-yard touchdown pass to Simon Larose, extending the lead to 28-8. Yet, Laval fought back, scoring 14 consecutive points through Jérémy Ouellette and Desjardins, narrowing the score to 28-22.
In the fourth quarter, Boyer added a 23-yard field goal, making it a two-score game. Laval responded with a touchdown when Desjardins found Simon Potvin for a five-yard score, closing the gap to 31-29.
Final Minutes and Statistics
In the waning moments, a pivotal third down for Laval at the Montréal 37-yard line ended in disappointment. Felipe Forteza attempted a game-winning field goal but missed, allowing the Carabins to run out the clock.
- Gonzalez’s Performance: 27 completions on 37 attempts, 288 yards, 2 touchdowns.
- Desjardins’ Performance: 29 completions on 40 attempts, 296 yards, 3 touchdowns, 1 interception.
Historical Context of the Dussault Cup
The Dussault Cup, formerly known as the Dunsmore Cup, recognizes the championship of the RSEQ. It is named after Jacques Dussault, a 2023 Canadian Football Hall of Fame inductee. This year marks the twelfth consecutive matchup between Montréal and Laval in this final.
This victory marks the Carabins’ sixth Dussault Cup title in their history. Their last triumph was in 2023, when they went on to conquer both the Uteck Bowl and the Vanier Cup.
Looking Ahead
With this win, the Carabins advance to face the Saint Mary’s Huskies in the upcoming Uteck Bowl. The Huskies secured their spot by defeating the St. FX X-Men in the Loney Bowl.
