Crossfire: York versus Laurier

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View from Laurier
Mike Kostoff

It is critical that Wilfrid Laurier Golden Hawks, and most importantly their bus driver, do not dip into the celebratory champagne on the way down to the game at York this Saturday.

As well, caution when driving through the lovely community surrounding York (i.e. the Jane/Finch corridor) is extremely important… maybe bullet-proof windows on the bus would be in order. However, assuming the Hawks successfully arrive at York Stadium in time for the game, the playoff bound squad will win their sixth in a row to close out the 1998 regular season campaign.

Simply put, the Hawks are the hottest team in the OUA. Since dropping their first two contests of the season to Waterloo and Western as a relatively inexperienced team, the Hawks have put together five straight victories in convincing fashion, outscoring their opponents 194-71 throughout the streak. York's 105 points on the season certainly raises questions about the Yeomen's ability to produce any kind of offensive output whatsoever.

While 11 points would have been enough for York to beat Western on thanksgiving weekend, similar output simply will not cut it against the purple & gold.

The Laurier offense will take it to York with a balanced attack that has kept defenses dazed and confused all year. On the ground, running backs Justin Praamsma and Justin Dillon have racked up the rushing yardage all year, blowing through holes opened up by an impressive offensive line.

Through the air, Hawk quarterback Kevin Taylor has several dangerous receivers at his disposal, highlighted by 1995 OUA rookie of the year Corey Grant.

On defense, the Hawks boast two of the league leaders in interceptions in Donnie Ruiz and Kevin Johnson, as well as a sack hungry defensive line that will look to make York quarterback Fabio Brusco a poster boy for OHIP before the game is done.

A score prediction: well, the Hawks do hold the OUA record for most points in one game; a 90-15 thrashing of York back in 1974.

However, considering the playoff bound Hawks may rest some of their starters in this matchup, a more conservative score prediction is probably in order.

Hawks 85, York 17.

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The York Response
Richard Laporte & Mike Leon
Excalibur Sports

After winning their last five games, Laurier may have forgotten what it's like to lose. No need to worry though because on Saturday, York will remind them.

Laurier has already clinched a playoff spot and me be the hottest team in the OUA right now, but after soaring high all year, come Saturday the Golden Hawks will end their season on a low note, with their feathers plucked out by the Yeomen.

After last years record breaking season, York's prospects appeared bright for 1998. However, four losses by seven points or less, with three of them coming in the last minute of play mired their new image, self confidence, and chances. With a 2-5 record, it's safe to say the Yeomen are much better than their win-loss record dictates.

Against McMaster, York drove down field in the last two minuets for the tying touchdown, but missed the convert and lose by one point. The loss to the 7-0 Western Mustangs was only by three points.

York's strongest suits are their defense and running games. In fact as of last week the Yeoman led the league in eight defensive categories. The defensive corps has caused the most amount of fumbles of any team in the league, a stat which can't be music to the ears of Golden Hawk running backs Justin Praamsma and Justin Dillon.

As well should quarterback Kevin Taylor wish to pass he will likely be haunted by a team that has allowed less than 50% of opposing teams passes to be completed. Yet another category York excels in.

In the offensive category, Jeff Johnson is still York's primary threat. The third year running back is coming off a 109 yard performance and will surely cause Laurier defenders some headaches.

Johnson is a double threat and has also excelled in kick returns, snagging a strong 105 yard touchdown run earlier this season against Guelph.

York's passing game can be successful if the run is established as a threat early in the game. Brian Nugent and Chris Huismans are good deep threats, and quarterback Fabio Brusco is mobile, capable of running for first downs and avoiding sacks.

So while traveling to York, the Laurier Golden Hawks should enjoy their trip through the Jane and Finch corridor. It's the most enjoyable experience they'll have all weekend.