Riot Clinch Home Playoff Showdown Against Valkyries

The Regina Riot closed out their regular season this past Sunday with a road trip to Manitoba to challenge the hometown Winnipeg Wolfpack. A win for the Riot would clinch first place in the WWCFL’s Prairie Conference, and lock in home field advantage for that all important playoff game with the Saskatoon Valkyries. And win is exactly what the Riot did.

“It was important for us to play well in Winnipeg, which we accomplished” said Head Coach Olivier Eddie following the 35-0 performance. It was another fast start for the Riot offense, who ended their opening drive with a big touchdown run by Carmen Agar. The Riot took a 23-0 lead into the half, and added another 12 points in the second half before completing the defense’s third shutout of the season.

While it was exciting for the Riot to lock in another home game for their schedule, there was not much time for celebration. “We are quickly turning our attention to the playoff game this weekend,” said Eddie. “Having the chance to play on our home field is a great advantage, and we know that we will have great support in the stands. It’s going to be an exciting game.”

While home field advantage does play into the Riot’s hands this weekend, neither team was able to successfully defend their home turf against the other during the regular season. The home-and-home series was split 1-1 between the two rivals, with the Riot shutting down the Valkyries offense in Saskatoon and the Valkyries responding with a last minute victory in Regina just two weeks ago. The third meeting will not only be the rubber match between these two provincial rivals this season, but it will also catapult one of these teams towards the WWCFL Championship Game.

Despite the pressure, Eddie remains confident. “Everything we have worked for as a team since January leads to this weekend. Our athletes are motivated and prepared. We will be ready for June 4^th.”

The game takes place on Sunday, June 4^th at Historic Mosaic Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 1pm. Tickets are available online at the Regina Riot website.