Sabercats drop opener in Guelph

GUELPH -- The Guelph Bears unleashed an aerial assault that proved to be too much for the Sault Sabercats to handle.

Guelph's passing attack wore down the Sabercats defense and scored four second half touchdowns en route to a 41-14 Ontario Varsity Football League win over the Sault here on Saturday afternoon at Alumni Stadium on the University of Guelph campus.

The Sabercats opened the scoring in the first quarter on a seven-yard touchdown from fullback Mark Palombi. Guelph scored twice in second quarter to take a 14-7 lead into the half.

The Sabercats started the second half strong as quarterback Ryan Maunu hooked up with receiver Ron Kelly for a 3-yard touchdown.

But the Guelph defense quickly took over and forced the Sabercats into several three-and-out situations and turnovers.

With the Sabercats defense spending the majority of the half on the field, Guelph wore down the Sabercats secondary and completed several deep passes. Guelph receiver Dustin Heap caught three second half touchdowns.

"We knew they were going to pass but we just couldn't defend it. We left our defense out there too long and they wore down," said Sabercats head coach Ross Viotto. "Offensively, we didn't do a damn thing both running and passing and our line didn't do too much to block or pass protect."

The Sabercats could only muster 186 yards total offense including 75 yards passing. Palombi rushed for 53 yards on nine carries to lead the Sault running backs while Kelly hauled down four passes for 62 yards.

Quarterback Ryan Maunu completed eight of 18 passes for 67 yards, a touchdown and three interceptions. Anthony Amadio completed one of 12 passes and threw two interceptions.

"I really think we need to go with one quarterback. We are putting a lot of pressure on them to perform and I think it's hurting us. They are both going out there trying to make the big plays to win the job so we need to settle, pick one guy and go with him," said Viotto.

Defensively, Ian Hazlett recorded 5.5 tackles while Kevin Nanne and Matt Gauthier each made 4.5 tackles and a sack. Dan Kennedy and Gavin Cond, who also made 4.5 tackles, each made an interception.

The next game for the Sabercats is in London next Sunday.