Eight OFSAA Bowl games at St. Clair College over three days. "Happy to be there and do well." said Herman head coach Harry Lumley following their 35-0 win over Toronto St. Michael's Tuesday afternoon. "I always knew we were a good team if we put it together."
The Griffins used a strong first half to put the visiting CISAA champs on their heels as they led 21-0 heading at the break. Kyanni Elliott put the game out of reach in the third quarter. He picked off a pass and took it 42-yards to the St. Michael's 2-yard line. He punched in his second TD of the day on the next play for a 28-0 lead. Ta'Shon French-Robert closed out the scoring late in the game with his second of the contest.
Winning the Independent Bowl was extra special for French-Robert. He injured his ankle and missed most of last season. He says he worked harder than he ever has in the off-season and was rewarded in his final high school season. "It feels great. The outcome has proven itself. Nice to go out like a champ."
Not before a rollercoaster ride of a season that saw the Green Griffins start 0-2. They came back from a 17-0 deficit to stun undefeated Holy Names in the WECSSAA final. Lost at SWOSSA against Ursuline College and rebounded to win the Independent Bowl.
"It feels amazing." said running back Donovan Osman who had some big gains on a snow filled field. "We were all down after that loss (to Ursuline College) but we had to come back stronger than ever and come out on top. Green Griffin forever."
Herman stopped St. Michael's on the final play of the game to preserve their shutout. "They got down to the one but hey, our defence is just stronger." Osman said.
Elliott earned player of the game honours. Malachi Jackson also scored a touchdown for Herman late in the first half.
"They deserve what they got." said Lumley. "They worked their tails off for it."
Photo gallery: Steven Guenette
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