You know, aside from any part of autumn, June has to be my favourite month of the year. The Summer Solstice, marking the longest day the Northern Hemisphere experiences on the calendar, falls in June. The Stanley Cup is usually decided for another season -- congratulations to the Los Angeles Kings, by the way. And for those of us who love the hard hitting, smashmouth action of the gridiron, the birth of a new CFL season occurs.
Once again, our beloved Ti-Cats will be swinging open the doors to the venerable Bastion on Balsam for another campaign. However, this season will hold some extra significance, as the old gal will be spending it's final days between now, and hopefully sometime in November; when the Black and Gold might hold a home playoff game for it's final hurrah. Barring that, the wire-fence gates on Balsam, Beechwood, and Melrose will swing open for the last time on Saturday, October 27th; when the Ti-Cats will host their division rivals, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
I'll admit, I only became an invested resident of Tigertown a mere three years ago, so my memories of one of Steeltown's most noted landmarks are limited. Regardless, in that short time, I have developed some memories from my perch in Section 22: the offensive skills of wideouts like Prechae Rodriguez, Dave Stala, and Chris Williams; the clutch kicking from Justin "Mr. Money in the Bank" Medlock, and, of course, our remarkable defensive corps that showcased the likes of Jamal Johnson, Otis Floyd, and Stevie Baggs.
This year, the Black and Gold will welcome some new faces into the mix. Henry Burris, Luca Congi, Kevin Eiben, and the crowd jewel of off-season acquisitions, Andy Fantuz, will hopefully provide those of us within Tigertown something we've been longing for since that magical 1999 season; when Danny McManus and the legendary General, Ron Lancaster, brought Earl Grey's Mug to Ti-Cat fans young and old. I don't think there would be a better send-off to IWS than to have it return for one more time.
What's On Tap: Tonight marks the first pre-season game of the 2012 campaign when the Boys on Balsam take on their long-standing rivals, the Toronto Argonauts. Kickoff is at 7 p.m., and for a treat to those who weren't able to score a ducat to the contest, TSN will be broadcasting the game as the first half of a pre-season doubleheader. Back this year, will be my commen-tweeting of the Black and Gold. During games at IWS (unless some unforseen circumstances arise), I will be giving my two cents about the action on the field from my seat in Section 22. Follow along on Twitter at @DiefOnCats. Hope to see you at a sold-out Ivor Wynne. Oskee wee wee!
Wednesday 13 June 2012
Wednesday 14 September 2011
Week 11: Ti-Cats No Show In Loss At Montréal
Fans of the Black and Gold have pondered whether or not their team could be considered as one of the upper echelon teams in the CFL. They have had the belief that because of their offensive weapons and a solid defense they could compete with anyone in the league. The Labour Day domination of the defending Grey Cup champions heightened such thoughts. Unfortunately, there is one glaring black mark on those claims: the Ti-Cats have not won against the Alouettes in Montréal since 2002. After this past Sunday, the aforementioned black mark continued to grow.
Montréal quarterback Anthony Calvillo continued to prove that he is "the best in the league at what he does" by dominating a Ti-Cat defense that has no real direction in secondary coverage. Calvillo completed 31 of his 45 pass attempts for a blistering 421 yards in the air; throwing to the end zone four times in the first half alone. When you dig yourself into that big a hole in the opening 30, you need to bring some serious fight to try to compete. Alas, for the Black and Gold faithful, it was not to be on this day.
Hamilton QB Kevin Glenn flipped into Bizarro World mode by going 13-for-30 for 151 yards. The problem Alouette receivers had with dropped passes at Ivor Wynne six days previously shifted over to Ti-Cat receivers. Stala, Bakari Grant, and Chris Williams could not snare Glenn's passes at McGill. What's worse, the only points the Tabbies were able to put on the board were off the foot of Justin "Mr. Money In The Bank" Medlock; including a huge 57-yard field goal in the 2nd quarter. When the only time you score is when your kicker connects with the ball, then you have some serious issues with your offense.
In the end, the Alouettes get their revenge for their Labour Day defeat by beating the 'Cats 43-13 and having the Black and Gold licking their wounds back to Steeltown.
What's On Tap...
After the Massacre at McGill, the 'Cats will attempt to regroup for this Friday night when they return to the Bastion on Balsam to take on the Edmonton Eskimos. The Eskies defeated the Black and Gold in Commonwealth back in Week 2, so Glenn & co. will look to extract some revenge of their own. The action at Ivor Wynne starts at 7:30 p.m. on TSN. Unfortunately, due to circumstances beyond our control, we'll be unable to be at our usual perch in Section 22; however, we will be doing our live tweeting from our residential abode in the "Dief On Cats Studios" while watching the action on TSN. Follow along on Twitter at @DiefOnCats.
Until next week Tigertown, oskee wee wee!
Montréal quarterback Anthony Calvillo continued to prove that he is "the best in the league at what he does" by dominating a Ti-Cat defense that has no real direction in secondary coverage. Calvillo completed 31 of his 45 pass attempts for a blistering 421 yards in the air; throwing to the end zone four times in the first half alone. When you dig yourself into that big a hole in the opening 30, you need to bring some serious fight to try to compete. Alas, for the Black and Gold faithful, it was not to be on this day.
Hamilton QB Kevin Glenn flipped into Bizarro World mode by going 13-for-30 for 151 yards. The problem Alouette receivers had with dropped passes at Ivor Wynne six days previously shifted over to Ti-Cat receivers. Stala, Bakari Grant, and Chris Williams could not snare Glenn's passes at McGill. What's worse, the only points the Tabbies were able to put on the board were off the foot of Justin "Mr. Money In The Bank" Medlock; including a huge 57-yard field goal in the 2nd quarter. When the only time you score is when your kicker connects with the ball, then you have some serious issues with your offense.
In the end, the Alouettes get their revenge for their Labour Day defeat by beating the 'Cats 43-13 and having the Black and Gold licking their wounds back to Steeltown.
What's On Tap...
After the Massacre at McGill, the 'Cats will attempt to regroup for this Friday night when they return to the Bastion on Balsam to take on the Edmonton Eskimos. The Eskies defeated the Black and Gold in Commonwealth back in Week 2, so Glenn & co. will look to extract some revenge of their own. The action at Ivor Wynne starts at 7:30 p.m. on TSN. Unfortunately, due to circumstances beyond our control, we'll be unable to be at our usual perch in Section 22; however, we will be doing our live tweeting from our residential abode in the "Dief On Cats Studios" while watching the action on TSN. Follow along on Twitter at @DiefOnCats.
Until next week Tigertown, oskee wee wee!
Tuesday 6 September 2011
Week 10: Otis Floyd Inspires D at La Classique
Over the weekend, Ti-Cats linebacker Otis Floyd announced his retirement after spending twelve seasons in the CFL. Prior to this past Monday's match-up against the division rival Montréal Alouettes, the former #35 gave a spirited speech in the locker room to the troops and lead the Black and Gold onto the field during the player introductions. I don't know what was said behind closed doors, but it certainly inspired the team on a game that 'Cats are always up for: Labour Day at the Ivor Wynne, Classique Edition.
A crowd of 26,964 filled the Bastion on Balsam -- a disappointing non-sell out for a Labour Day game, but we'll attribute that to the "it's not the Argos" factor -- on what turned out to be a barnburner of a game. The action started right on the opening play when a Kevin Glenn pass caught by Maurice Mann was fumbled and returned for a touchdown by De'audra Dix. After a Sean Whyte convert, the 'Cats were down by 7 and the game was but a mere five seconds old. The Tabbies would respond on their next drive as Glenn would march them down the field -- aided by a 39-yard pass interference call on Montréal DB Dwight Anderson when Glenn attempted to find Chris Williams -- and culminated with a *bing bong* Avon (-calling) Cobourne 3-yard scamper for the game's first offensive major.
Alouettes' QB Anthony Calvillo is usually an excellent quarterback with stellar receivers to snare his passes, but the bleu, blanc, et rouge developed an acute case of the "dropsies" as the league's all-time leading passer completed only 17 of his 30 pass attempts for 215 yards. Of course, being sacked twice and coughing up a fumble would add to his list of woes. But when Calvillo did have his receivers hold onto the thrown balls, his target of choice was Jamel Richardson. #18 for les Alouettes would grab 10 passes on the day for 199 yards. However, the most glaring statistic on the Larks was that on the offensive side of the ball, they failed to find the end zone. Both Montréal touchdowns -- the opening play fumble return, and a 50-yard Pick-6 by Anderson off of 'Cats back-up QB Quinton Porter in the 4th quarter -- came on the defensive side of the ball.
The only other Alouette scoring came off the foot of Sean Whyte; who going into the Classique was riding a streak of 22 consecutive field goal attempts made. That streak would end late in the 3rd quarter when Whyte would miss a 33-yarder that Marcus Thigpen ended up conceeding a single point on. The Montréal kicker's streak ended at 24; 4 shy of tying the record for consecutive field goals made by former Saskatchewan Roughrider hoofer Dave Ridgway, set in the 1993 season. However, what the Alouette offense didn't put on the board, the Ti-Cat offense made up for and then some.
Kevin Glenn would recover from the opening play fiasco by completing 14 of 18 pass attempts for 238 yards and throwing 1 touchdown before having to leave the game due to a banged up thumb. Quinton Porter would take over for Glenn and go 2-for-3 with 1 pick for 27 yards, but would rush 7 times for 34 yards and 2 majors; including a 20-yard scamper to the Promised Land that ended with a leaping 360-degree spin to cross the goal line. Avon "Deuces" Cobourne would add to the yards on the ground for the Black and Gold; carrying the rock 19 times for 102 yards and 2 touchdowns of his own. However, the memorable play of the game came within the last 3 minutes of the first half when Glenn would find Chris Williams -- who was being covered by Dwight Anderson all game -- on a tip-drill reception for 47 yards down to the Montréal 1-yard line that lead to the first Porter touchdown. If that doesn't end up on this coming weekend's "Plays of the Week" on TSN, then I know that residential Alouette homer Jock Climie kept it off the list and Rod Black is still a douche.
In the end, the Tigertown faithful would leave the Bastion on Balsam happy as the 'Cats earned a 44-21 victory over the defending Grey Cup champions; temporarily moving the Black and Gold into 2nd place in the CFL's East Division.
Also a big thumbs up to the fans in attendance to donated to this year's "Purolator Tackle Hunger" food drive. Tigertown's generosity brought in 86,400 lbs. of food for Hamilton Food Share, a Hamilton record, and bettering last year's total by 69%. Living proof that those of us who don the Black and Gold have big hearts. Way to go, gang!
What's On Tap...
One of the things synonymous with the CFL is that Labour Day weekend and the week after is a home-at-home series. That means our beloved Boys on Balsam will be making the trek to Percival Molson Stadium at McGill University for the first of two planned visits this regular season. The game is Sunday afternoon at 1 p.m. (Editor's note: Note the start time, Red.) on TSN. As always, while you're watching the game, you can follow us along on Twitter as we'll be commen-tweeting the broadcast. @DiefOnCats is the account to tap into.
Until Sunday Tigertown, oskee wee wee!
A crowd of 26,964 filled the Bastion on Balsam -- a disappointing non-sell out for a Labour Day game, but we'll attribute that to the "it's not the Argos" factor -- on what turned out to be a barnburner of a game. The action started right on the opening play when a Kevin Glenn pass caught by Maurice Mann was fumbled and returned for a touchdown by De'audra Dix. After a Sean Whyte convert, the 'Cats were down by 7 and the game was but a mere five seconds old. The Tabbies would respond on their next drive as Glenn would march them down the field -- aided by a 39-yard pass interference call on Montréal DB Dwight Anderson when Glenn attempted to find Chris Williams -- and culminated with a *bing bong* Avon (-calling) Cobourne 3-yard scamper for the game's first offensive major.
Alouettes' QB Anthony Calvillo is usually an excellent quarterback with stellar receivers to snare his passes, but the bleu, blanc, et rouge developed an acute case of the "dropsies" as the league's all-time leading passer completed only 17 of his 30 pass attempts for 215 yards. Of course, being sacked twice and coughing up a fumble would add to his list of woes. But when Calvillo did have his receivers hold onto the thrown balls, his target of choice was Jamel Richardson. #18 for les Alouettes would grab 10 passes on the day for 199 yards. However, the most glaring statistic on the Larks was that on the offensive side of the ball, they failed to find the end zone. Both Montréal touchdowns -- the opening play fumble return, and a 50-yard Pick-6 by Anderson off of 'Cats back-up QB Quinton Porter in the 4th quarter -- came on the defensive side of the ball.
The only other Alouette scoring came off the foot of Sean Whyte; who going into the Classique was riding a streak of 22 consecutive field goal attempts made. That streak would end late in the 3rd quarter when Whyte would miss a 33-yarder that Marcus Thigpen ended up conceeding a single point on. The Montréal kicker's streak ended at 24; 4 shy of tying the record for consecutive field goals made by former Saskatchewan Roughrider hoofer Dave Ridgway, set in the 1993 season. However, what the Alouette offense didn't put on the board, the Ti-Cat offense made up for and then some.
Kevin Glenn would recover from the opening play fiasco by completing 14 of 18 pass attempts for 238 yards and throwing 1 touchdown before having to leave the game due to a banged up thumb. Quinton Porter would take over for Glenn and go 2-for-3 with 1 pick for 27 yards, but would rush 7 times for 34 yards and 2 majors; including a 20-yard scamper to the Promised Land that ended with a leaping 360-degree spin to cross the goal line. Avon "Deuces" Cobourne would add to the yards on the ground for the Black and Gold; carrying the rock 19 times for 102 yards and 2 touchdowns of his own. However, the memorable play of the game came within the last 3 minutes of the first half when Glenn would find Chris Williams -- who was being covered by Dwight Anderson all game -- on a tip-drill reception for 47 yards down to the Montréal 1-yard line that lead to the first Porter touchdown. If that doesn't end up on this coming weekend's "Plays of the Week" on TSN, then I know that residential Alouette homer Jock Climie kept it off the list and Rod Black is still a douche.
In the end, the Tigertown faithful would leave the Bastion on Balsam happy as the 'Cats earned a 44-21 victory over the defending Grey Cup champions; temporarily moving the Black and Gold into 2nd place in the CFL's East Division.
Also a big thumbs up to the fans in attendance to donated to this year's "Purolator Tackle Hunger" food drive. Tigertown's generosity brought in 86,400 lbs. of food for Hamilton Food Share, a Hamilton record, and bettering last year's total by 69%. Living proof that those of us who don the Black and Gold have big hearts. Way to go, gang!
What's On Tap...
One of the things synonymous with the CFL is that Labour Day weekend and the week after is a home-at-home series. That means our beloved Boys on Balsam will be making the trek to Percival Molson Stadium at McGill University for the first of two planned visits this regular season. The game is Sunday afternoon at 1 p.m. (Editor's note: Note the start time, Red.) on TSN. As always, while you're watching the game, you can follow us along on Twitter as we'll be commen-tweeting the broadcast. @DiefOnCats is the account to tap into.
Until Sunday Tigertown, oskee wee wee!
Monday 29 August 2011
Week 9: Cats Lose Close One In Winnipeg
You can't really blame the 'Cats for trying. They knew they would be in tough against the East Division leading Blue Bombers in their contest this past Friday night in the Manitoba capital, but for what it was worth, it was a rather interesting game.
The key to the Black and Gold's success was to attempt to contain the Bombers' quarterback Buck Pierce; however, trying to keep him under wraps is like what Principal Skinner said to Sideshow Bob of Bart Simpson in Day of Jackanapes, "That kid's like the Road Runner -- he won't go down".. unless of course, you happen to be Jamall Johnson. Regardless, Pierce ended up completing 19 of his 34 passes for 293 yards; the majority of which were to wide out Terrance Edwards. The Pierce-to-Edwards connection would be made 6 times; earning the duo 120 yards and one touchdown.
At one point in the 2nd quarter, the Ti-Cats would be trailing the Blue and Gold 17-3, but they would claw back to tie the game by halftime; thanks to a 49-yard Kevin Glenn touchdown completion to Chris Williams that the Bombers disputed and ended up receiving 20 yards in penalties that were applied to the ensuing kickoff, then followed up by a 43-yard touchdown hook-up to Bakari Grant. The Tabbies would have taken the lead, but the winds at CanadInns Stadium would play havoc on Justin "Mr. Money In The Bank" Medlock as he ended up missing two long-range field goal attempts to the left.
The Cats had a prime opportunity to take the lead on the opening drive in the 2nd half when Glenn would find Chris Williams again for a 64-yard completion. Williams was just about to hit the Promised Land when the ball was stripped by Joe Lobendahn on the 1-yard line and recovered in the end zone by the Bombers. Critics say that Williams let up just before the end zone, but the replays show that his progress was impeded by the crossing of Dave Stala in front of him; definitely not a quality play by "Sticky". Despite the botch, #80 would rack up 162 yards on 7 receptions over the night. The Bombers would eventually score a field goal later in the 3rd frame, but would be followed by a Black and Gold drive that culminated with a Quinton Porter 1-yard dash to put our Boys on Balsam up by 4 heading into the Final 15.
The quarter would open the 4th with a Medlock 39-yard field goal to extend the lead, but another Pierce-to-Edwards touchdown hook-up for 12 yards -- followed later by a Justin Palardy 21-yard field goal -- would put the Waifs from Winnipeg up by 3 in the 4th quarter. The Black and Gold would try valiantly to pull even with the Bombers, but their last minute drives proved futile and the Ti-Cats would leave the 'Peg with a 30-27 loss that would put them at a disadvantage in the tie-breaker should the seemingly unlikely event the residents of Swaggerville collapse and end up tied with the Tabbies at the end of the season.
What's On Tap...
Around this time, Ti-Cat fans would be singing "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year" as the next game on the schedule for their beloved Black and Gold is the annual Labour Day Classic; however, this year, the crooning of the ditty will have a distinct Québecois accent as the defending Grey Cup champions return for their last of two visits to the Bastion on Balsam this regular season. The Alouettes are looking to avenge their 34-26 loss to the Cats back in Week 5, but the Black and Gold always step up their game for this one. Kick-off is this coming Monday at 1pm on TSN, but we'll be live tweeting from our roost in Section 22. Hopefully there won't be a repeat from a couple weeks ago and the skies will remain clear for the game.
I would also like to remind those who'll be attending the game that this will also be the "Purolator Tackle Hunger" game. As someone who's previously volunteered at a food bank, I cannot stress how critical the need is to help those who can't afford groceries because their other expenditures are too high. So please, if you're making the trek to Ivor Wynne on Monday for the game, donate some non-perishable food items -- some canned pasta, a jar of peanut butter, or some non-expired baby food -- or even make a cash donation and help those in need in these trying times. As a bonus, you'll be able to get your picture taken with the Grey Cup. When I did this last year, I was fortunate enough to get my photo taken not only with the prestigious trophy, but with Ti-Cat legends Cookie Gilcrest and Angelo "King Kong" Mosca.
Until next week Tigertown, oskee wee wee!
The key to the Black and Gold's success was to attempt to contain the Bombers' quarterback Buck Pierce; however, trying to keep him under wraps is like what Principal Skinner said to Sideshow Bob of Bart Simpson in Day of Jackanapes, "That kid's like the Road Runner -- he won't go down".. unless of course, you happen to be Jamall Johnson. Regardless, Pierce ended up completing 19 of his 34 passes for 293 yards; the majority of which were to wide out Terrance Edwards. The Pierce-to-Edwards connection would be made 6 times; earning the duo 120 yards and one touchdown.
At one point in the 2nd quarter, the Ti-Cats would be trailing the Blue and Gold 17-3, but they would claw back to tie the game by halftime; thanks to a 49-yard Kevin Glenn touchdown completion to Chris Williams that the Bombers disputed and ended up receiving 20 yards in penalties that were applied to the ensuing kickoff, then followed up by a 43-yard touchdown hook-up to Bakari Grant. The Tabbies would have taken the lead, but the winds at CanadInns Stadium would play havoc on Justin "Mr. Money In The Bank" Medlock as he ended up missing two long-range field goal attempts to the left.
The Cats had a prime opportunity to take the lead on the opening drive in the 2nd half when Glenn would find Chris Williams again for a 64-yard completion. Williams was just about to hit the Promised Land when the ball was stripped by Joe Lobendahn on the 1-yard line and recovered in the end zone by the Bombers. Critics say that Williams let up just before the end zone, but the replays show that his progress was impeded by the crossing of Dave Stala in front of him; definitely not a quality play by "Sticky". Despite the botch, #80 would rack up 162 yards on 7 receptions over the night. The Bombers would eventually score a field goal later in the 3rd frame, but would be followed by a Black and Gold drive that culminated with a Quinton Porter 1-yard dash to put our Boys on Balsam up by 4 heading into the Final 15.
The quarter would open the 4th with a Medlock 39-yard field goal to extend the lead, but another Pierce-to-Edwards touchdown hook-up for 12 yards -- followed later by a Justin Palardy 21-yard field goal -- would put the Waifs from Winnipeg up by 3 in the 4th quarter. The Black and Gold would try valiantly to pull even with the Bombers, but their last minute drives proved futile and the Ti-Cats would leave the 'Peg with a 30-27 loss that would put them at a disadvantage in the tie-breaker should the seemingly unlikely event the residents of Swaggerville collapse and end up tied with the Tabbies at the end of the season.
What's On Tap...
Around this time, Ti-Cat fans would be singing "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year" as the next game on the schedule for their beloved Black and Gold is the annual Labour Day Classic; however, this year, the crooning of the ditty will have a distinct Québecois accent as the defending Grey Cup champions return for their last of two visits to the Bastion on Balsam this regular season. The Alouettes are looking to avenge their 34-26 loss to the Cats back in Week 5, but the Black and Gold always step up their game for this one. Kick-off is this coming Monday at 1pm on TSN, but we'll be live tweeting from our roost in Section 22. Hopefully there won't be a repeat from a couple weeks ago and the skies will remain clear for the game.
I would also like to remind those who'll be attending the game that this will also be the "Purolator Tackle Hunger" game. As someone who's previously volunteered at a food bank, I cannot stress how critical the need is to help those who can't afford groceries because their other expenditures are too high. So please, if you're making the trek to Ivor Wynne on Monday for the game, donate some non-perishable food items -- some canned pasta, a jar of peanut butter, or some non-expired baby food -- or even make a cash donation and help those in need in these trying times. As a bonus, you'll be able to get your picture taken with the Grey Cup. When I did this last year, I was fortunate enough to get my photo taken not only with the prestigious trophy, but with Ti-Cat legends Cookie Gilcrest and Angelo "King Kong" Mosca.
Until next week Tigertown, oskee wee wee!
Sunday 21 August 2011
Week 8: Musings From Section 22, Bye Week 2011
With our beloved Black and Gold enjoying a little time off this week, I figured I'd offer up some thoughts on how I've seen the 2011 season go so far for our Boys on Balsam.
With the Cats starting out the regular season with 2 losses -- Canada Day at home to the Bombers, then on the road against the Eskimos -- I was becoming concerned that the team wasn't living up to the hype coming into the 2011 campaign. The defence looked lost and Kevin Glenn was starting to exhibit the same tendencies of Offensive Co-ordinator Khari Jones towards the end of his playing career: he "had plently of good reads, but the ball didn't go where (he) wanted it to." Mind you, it wasn't all Glenn's fault as some of his pass attempts were made to receivers who couldn't hang onto the ball. At that rate, there would be a good chance some of my section mates would make good on their claims to sunbathe on the soon-to-be vacant backed benches. However, things began to turn around in Tigertown.
Since the 0-2 start, the Cats have won 4 of their past 5 games. Granted, 3 of those contests were against teams who currently have a combined record of 5-19, but the impressive win 34-26 win at home over the defending Grey Cup champs in Week 5 provided a glimmer of hope in what was originally turning into a dismal season. But that was then, and the schedule is about to get tougher for the Tabbies.
The next five games are against teams with a combined 21-8 record; including a critical home-at-home against those same Alouettes we defeated at Ivor Wynne a mere three weeks ago. Only two of these next five will be within the confines of the Bastion on Balsam -- Labour Day vs. Montréal, then September 16th against a sliding Edmonton squad -- so if the Black and Gold are to succeed over the next stretch, they need to step up their game and prove they can win on the road against a formidable opponent. The first task on this quest happens to be this coming week with a playdate in CanadInns Stadium against the Bombers.
Things In My Craw...
I know I'm going to get some heat for saying this, but is it little wonder why Arland Bruce is no longer a Ti-Cat?
Don't get me wrong, he's a great player; when he chooses to perform. His antics wore thin with management in Toronto, so he got released by the Double Blue and Obie scooped him up. During his tenure in Tigertown, "Da Third" hauled in 169 passes for 2,450 yards and 17 touchdowns; impressive stats indeed. However, this season he developed an acute case of the "dropsies" and wasn't able to find the end zone. While the argument could be made that he wasn't thrown to enough, if you were thrown to and couldn't snare the ball, could you blame Glenn and Khari for being hesitant in calling your number? Mind you, when you have Dave "Sticky" (Sticky Sticky Wop Pang Zip!... Nee!) Stala having a record season for touchdown grabs, and the emergence of young receivers in Aaron Kelly and Chris Williams, it's little wonder that Spiderman suddenly became expendable. Of course, his moping on the bench towards the end of the Montréal win -- although he "claims" it was a knee injury -- didn't help matters either. Now he's found his groove back in B.C.; hauling in 9 receptions for 129 yards and 2 TDs. Yeah, knee injury, my hairy appendage.
Possibly Regretting My Wishes...
When the defensive secondary coverage has been spotty, I have openly opined that they seemed lost without the mind of former Defensive Co-ordinator Greg Marshall guiding the corps. During the off-season, Marshall finally received his dream gig of head coach and was manning the sidelines for Riderville. Now he's regretting taking the job in the first place.
The Green & White started their 2011 campaign a far cry from their back-to-back Grey Cup appearance form with an abysmal 1-7 start; including a decisive 33-3 trouncing by his former team at Ivor Wynne in Week 3. The Riders have been showing slight signs of life in recent weeks by dominating the 4th quarter, but falling short to the Stampeders in Week 7 and this week in Toronto. Speculation has it that some of the players were unwilling to play for Marshall and Offensive Co-ordinator, former Winnipeg head coach Doug Berry. Well, the ones who don the uniform got their wish as both Marshall and Berry were given their pink slips after a 24-18 loss at theRogers Centre SkyDome Thursday night. Former coach Ken Miller resumes the role he had the previous two seasons. Will this mean a resurgance in Riderville? And what of Marshall? While I once thought a return of the Ti-Cats' former DC might help, after that 1-7 record in Regina I'm not too sure I would welcome such a prospect.
What's On Tap...
Four teams -- including the Ti-Cats -- had the week off this week while the other half played. Now it's time to switch it up and those who were off play and those who played get a breather. Week 9 will see Black & Gold make the trek to the Manitoba capital to take on the Bombers. The Cats will be looking for a little payback for the 24-16 loss handed to them back at the season opener in Ivor Wynne on Canada Day. The game starts at 8pm Friday night on TSN. And once again, we'll be commentweeting the action on the tele. Just remember to follow along on Twitter, @DiefOnCats is our account. Until Friday night Tigertown, oskee wee wee!
With the Cats starting out the regular season with 2 losses -- Canada Day at home to the Bombers, then on the road against the Eskimos -- I was becoming concerned that the team wasn't living up to the hype coming into the 2011 campaign. The defence looked lost and Kevin Glenn was starting to exhibit the same tendencies of Offensive Co-ordinator Khari Jones towards the end of his playing career: he "had plently of good reads, but the ball didn't go where (he) wanted it to." Mind you, it wasn't all Glenn's fault as some of his pass attempts were made to receivers who couldn't hang onto the ball. At that rate, there would be a good chance some of my section mates would make good on their claims to sunbathe on the soon-to-be vacant backed benches. However, things began to turn around in Tigertown.
Since the 0-2 start, the Cats have won 4 of their past 5 games. Granted, 3 of those contests were against teams who currently have a combined record of 5-19, but the impressive win 34-26 win at home over the defending Grey Cup champs in Week 5 provided a glimmer of hope in what was originally turning into a dismal season. But that was then, and the schedule is about to get tougher for the Tabbies.
The next five games are against teams with a combined 21-8 record; including a critical home-at-home against those same Alouettes we defeated at Ivor Wynne a mere three weeks ago. Only two of these next five will be within the confines of the Bastion on Balsam -- Labour Day vs. Montréal, then September 16th against a sliding Edmonton squad -- so if the Black and Gold are to succeed over the next stretch, they need to step up their game and prove they can win on the road against a formidable opponent. The first task on this quest happens to be this coming week with a playdate in CanadInns Stadium against the Bombers.
Things In My Craw...
I know I'm going to get some heat for saying this, but is it little wonder why Arland Bruce is no longer a Ti-Cat?
Don't get me wrong, he's a great player; when he chooses to perform. His antics wore thin with management in Toronto, so he got released by the Double Blue and Obie scooped him up. During his tenure in Tigertown, "Da Third" hauled in 169 passes for 2,450 yards and 17 touchdowns; impressive stats indeed. However, this season he developed an acute case of the "dropsies" and wasn't able to find the end zone. While the argument could be made that he wasn't thrown to enough, if you were thrown to and couldn't snare the ball, could you blame Glenn and Khari for being hesitant in calling your number? Mind you, when you have Dave "Sticky" (Sticky Sticky Wop Pang Zip!... Nee!) Stala having a record season for touchdown grabs, and the emergence of young receivers in Aaron Kelly and Chris Williams, it's little wonder that Spiderman suddenly became expendable. Of course, his moping on the bench towards the end of the Montréal win -- although he "claims" it was a knee injury -- didn't help matters either. Now he's found his groove back in B.C.; hauling in 9 receptions for 129 yards and 2 TDs. Yeah, knee injury, my hairy appendage.
Possibly Regretting My Wishes...
When the defensive secondary coverage has been spotty, I have openly opined that they seemed lost without the mind of former Defensive Co-ordinator Greg Marshall guiding the corps. During the off-season, Marshall finally received his dream gig of head coach and was manning the sidelines for Riderville. Now he's regretting taking the job in the first place.
The Green & White started their 2011 campaign a far cry from their back-to-back Grey Cup appearance form with an abysmal 1-7 start; including a decisive 33-3 trouncing by his former team at Ivor Wynne in Week 3. The Riders have been showing slight signs of life in recent weeks by dominating the 4th quarter, but falling short to the Stampeders in Week 7 and this week in Toronto. Speculation has it that some of the players were unwilling to play for Marshall and Offensive Co-ordinator, former Winnipeg head coach Doug Berry. Well, the ones who don the uniform got their wish as both Marshall and Berry were given their pink slips after a 24-18 loss at the
What's On Tap...
Four teams -- including the Ti-Cats -- had the week off this week while the other half played. Now it's time to switch it up and those who were off play and those who played get a breather. Week 9 will see Black & Gold make the trek to the Manitoba capital to take on the Bombers. The Cats will be looking for a little payback for the 24-16 loss handed to them back at the season opener in Ivor Wynne on Canada Day. The game starts at 8pm Friday night on TSN. And once again, we'll be commentweeting the action on the tele. Just remember to follow along on Twitter, @DiefOnCats is our account. Until Friday night Tigertown, oskee wee wee!
Tuesday 16 August 2011
Week 7: Cats Rule the Night on Pre-Mature LDC
A lot has been said in the months since the 2011 CFL schedule was released about how the league botched things up when they booked the familiar Ti-Cats vs. Argos match-up at the Bastion on Balsam three weeks earlier than normal. The fans griped about how it was "messing with tradition" and that the schedule makers didn't know what they were doing. Those familiar with the situation know the real reason behind it. (Specifically, Rogers Centre SkyDome has always screwed with the Argos on dates since the media giant that is Rogers bought the half-billion dollar mausoleum for the bargain basement price of $25 million, but that's a rant for a different day.) However, it is always a special game whenever the Boys in Double Blue travel down the Queen Elizabeth Way to meet their Steeltown rivals. And for the 24,347 that walked through the gates of Ivor Wynne, they were not disappointed.
Not even the downpour during the first half could put a damper on the heated contest. In fact, it further added to the allure to the game: Toronto at Hamilton; the real Labour Day Classic; giftwrapped and presented to us earlier than normal this year. Those in attendance unwrapped the gift and basked in the magnificance of it's splendor. However, for the Tigertown faithful, at first the gift possessed the properties of a lump of coal in one's Christmas stocking.
On the opening drive, Toronto's usually spotty Quarterback Cleo Lemon marched the Boatmen down the field en route to a 21-yard scoring hook-up to Brandon Rideau for the Argos' first major. At this point, I sank into my soon-to-be damp seat (the rain wouldn't start until Toronto's next drive), with an eerie feeling of déjà vu to how the loss in Calgary last week started. The Black and Gold would return in kind as Kevin Glenn would proceed to move the offence along the turf; culminating with a 10-yard connection to Dave Stala for #88's seventh touchdown this season -- setting a new personal best in the process. The Ti-Cats would later add a 37-yard field goal by Justin "Mr. Money In The Bank" Medlock to put them up by 3 after the Opening 15.
Lemon would continue to pick apart the Ti-Cats secondary; completing 26 of his 36 pass attempts on the day for 368 yards, and one scamper for an additional 16. Glenn would respond by going 22 for 31 for 310 yards in the air. The Argos would also win the war on the ground; netting 127 yards rushing -- the bulk by their go-to Running Back Cory Boyd (16-73) -- to the Tabbies' 89. However, there were two stories to the game: the kickers, and the defence.
Medlock would have a spirited battle with his Argo counterpart Noel Prefontaine throughout the game. But when the booter for the Double Blue missed an easy chip shot field goal from 21-yards out, the pendulum swang towards the Steeltown Stalwarts. Medlock would show Pre how it's done by punching a field goal from 50-yards out to close out the 1st half, and give our beloved Black and Gold a 2-point lead going into the locker room.
After trading touchdowns in the 3rd quarter, Lemon would once again find Rideau for a scathing touchdown completion; burning the Ti-Cats defence along the sidelines for 69 of Rideau's 147 yards receiving. How did the Cats respond? Glenn would throw a 48-yard reception to Week 4 hero Chris Williams that would set up a 4-yard touchdown jog by *bing bong* Avon (calling) Cobourne. "Deuces" would end up having a 13-carry for 61 yards day to go along with his 2 grabs for 36 yards.
The game looked antsy with the Cats only up by 2 win less than 8 minutes left, but that's when the D would channel Emeril Lagasse and "kick it up a notch." The Tabbies would hold the Argos offence to only 37 yards combined on their next three drives; including a critical 3rd down stop on their Boatmen's 31. You would think a 33-yard field goal by "Mr. Money In The Bank" would have sealed the deal for the Boys on Balsam, but that would be forgetting that this is the CFL, and anything can happen.
That anything almost did transpire as the Argos would get the ball back and proceed to march frantically down the field in hopes of putting up a major to give the Double Blue their first W since Week 1, but thankfully it would never come to pass. A reception to Rideau down to the Hamilton 14-yard line would get stripped out of the Argo receiver's hands by Defensive Back Marcell Young and recovered by fellow DB Bo Smith would send the Boatmen back to Toronto with their sixth straight loss, a 37-32 decision to the Black and Gold.
It was a close game that exposed some holes in the Ti-Cats secondary, but with the "mid-season" break upon us, this will give them some extra time to tighten things up before a big match-up on the road in Week 9.
What`s On Tap...
It`s that time of year again. The Ti-Cats will enjoy a bye week this week and return to action on August 26th when they make the trip to "Swaggerville" to take on the Bombers. There will be no game tweeting until then, but make sure to come back this weekend where I will post a special "Musings From Section 22" article about how I think the Black and Gold have faired so far during the first seven weeks this season. Until then Tigertown, oskee wee wee!
Not even the downpour during the first half could put a damper on the heated contest. In fact, it further added to the allure to the game: Toronto at Hamilton; the real Labour Day Classic; giftwrapped and presented to us earlier than normal this year. Those in attendance unwrapped the gift and basked in the magnificance of it's splendor. However, for the Tigertown faithful, at first the gift possessed the properties of a lump of coal in one's Christmas stocking.
On the opening drive, Toronto's usually spotty Quarterback Cleo Lemon marched the Boatmen down the field en route to a 21-yard scoring hook-up to Brandon Rideau for the Argos' first major. At this point, I sank into my soon-to-be damp seat (the rain wouldn't start until Toronto's next drive), with an eerie feeling of déjà vu to how the loss in Calgary last week started. The Black and Gold would return in kind as Kevin Glenn would proceed to move the offence along the turf; culminating with a 10-yard connection to Dave Stala for #88's seventh touchdown this season -- setting a new personal best in the process. The Ti-Cats would later add a 37-yard field goal by Justin "Mr. Money In The Bank" Medlock to put them up by 3 after the Opening 15.
Lemon would continue to pick apart the Ti-Cats secondary; completing 26 of his 36 pass attempts on the day for 368 yards, and one scamper for an additional 16. Glenn would respond by going 22 for 31 for 310 yards in the air. The Argos would also win the war on the ground; netting 127 yards rushing -- the bulk by their go-to Running Back Cory Boyd (16-73) -- to the Tabbies' 89. However, there were two stories to the game: the kickers, and the defence.
Medlock would have a spirited battle with his Argo counterpart Noel Prefontaine throughout the game. But when the booter for the Double Blue missed an easy chip shot field goal from 21-yards out, the pendulum swang towards the Steeltown Stalwarts. Medlock would show Pre how it's done by punching a field goal from 50-yards out to close out the 1st half, and give our beloved Black and Gold a 2-point lead going into the locker room.
After trading touchdowns in the 3rd quarter, Lemon would once again find Rideau for a scathing touchdown completion; burning the Ti-Cats defence along the sidelines for 69 of Rideau's 147 yards receiving. How did the Cats respond? Glenn would throw a 48-yard reception to Week 4 hero Chris Williams that would set up a 4-yard touchdown jog by *bing bong* Avon (calling) Cobourne. "Deuces" would end up having a 13-carry for 61 yards day to go along with his 2 grabs for 36 yards.
The game looked antsy with the Cats only up by 2 win less than 8 minutes left, but that's when the D would channel Emeril Lagasse and "kick it up a notch." The Tabbies would hold the Argos offence to only 37 yards combined on their next three drives; including a critical 3rd down stop on their Boatmen's 31. You would think a 33-yard field goal by "Mr. Money In The Bank" would have sealed the deal for the Boys on Balsam, but that would be forgetting that this is the CFL, and anything can happen.
That anything almost did transpire as the Argos would get the ball back and proceed to march frantically down the field in hopes of putting up a major to give the Double Blue their first W since Week 1, but thankfully it would never come to pass. A reception to Rideau down to the Hamilton 14-yard line would get stripped out of the Argo receiver's hands by Defensive Back Marcell Young and recovered by fellow DB Bo Smith would send the Boatmen back to Toronto with their sixth straight loss, a 37-32 decision to the Black and Gold.
It was a close game that exposed some holes in the Ti-Cats secondary, but with the "mid-season" break upon us, this will give them some extra time to tighten things up before a big match-up on the road in Week 9.
What`s On Tap...
It`s that time of year again. The Ti-Cats will enjoy a bye week this week and return to action on August 26th when they make the trip to "Swaggerville" to take on the Bombers. There will be no game tweeting until then, but make sure to come back this weekend where I will post a special "Musings From Section 22" article about how I think the Black and Gold have faired so far during the first seven weeks this season. Until then Tigertown, oskee wee wee!
Sunday 7 August 2011
Week 6: Ti-Cats Check Out of Cowtown Early
It has been eluded to by a couple people that I had become a good luck charm in recent weeks because our beloved Black and Gold had commenced a three-game winning streak when I started commentweeting and blogging about their games. One even went as far as branding it "Twitter Magic" -- a mysterious phenomena that occurs whenever one mentions or openly opines something on the 140-character or less micro-blogging web service. However, as anyone will tell you, games are not won in the stands; they are played on the field. Sure, the fans might have a factor in influencing the outcome by disrupting an opposing team's offensive play calling, but unless you can execute and adapt to the situation and environment, a team that has a belief they could walk off with a W will more than likely have an addition to the Loss column. This was the case Saturday night in Calgary.
The 'Cats started off their trek to ("I tell it like it is") McMahon Stadium with a dismal start; giving up a touchdown on the Stampeders' opening drive when quarterback Henry Burris connected with Larry Taylor for a 25-yard play to the end zone. During this drive, the Tabbies' secondary looked non-existant as Burris commenced what would eventually turn into an aerial assault as "Hank" would complete 27 of 39 pass attempts for 341 yards.
The Black and Gold would hold their own as they would put points on the board when Justin Medlock pulled out his long-range kicking missile launcher by booting a 52-yard field goal on the next drive. The Stamps would return in kind by marching down the field to set up a 35-yard punch through the uprights by Rene Paredes. Kevin Glenn and company would get the ball back and begin to drive down the field with the assist of a couple pass interference penalties; including one where former Ti-Cat Geoff Tisdale attempted to strip Bakari Grant's jersey. I'm sure if Tisdale wanted a reminder of his days in Steeltown, he could've just walked to The Tigertown Store at 1 Jarvis Street and bought a replica of his old jersey. But I guess they didn't have a #9 in his size or didn't have the money at the time, so he tried to abscond with a white #84 shirt. The call would be costly as Glenn would connect with the Hamilton-raised, and Offensive Player of the Week for Week 5, Dave Stala for a 7-yard touchdown. By the time the Opening 15 had ended, we were all tied at 10 and the 'Cats had the momentum.
The Tabbies would add to their lead in the second frame when #5 and company would go down the field on their fifth drive of the half; emphasised by a 31-yard reception to rookie wide out Aaron Kelly down to the Stamps' 6 that was followed up by *bing bong* Avon (-calling) Cobourne stroll to the end zone. Kelly was the Receiver du Jour for the Ti-Cats as he would haul in 5 passes for 92 yards. A couple of traded field goals later in the half and the Boys from Balsam would lead 20-13 going into the locker room. When they returned, the wheels fell off the cart.
Going into the second half, the Ti-Cats were leading the war on penalties; being flagged once for 15 yards compared to the Stamps' being nailed four times for 66. This would soon change when defensive back Daniel Francis drew the orange hankerchief for an unnecessary roughness call at the end of a 36-yard strike by Burris to Jon Cornish. The penalty, along with a later-in-the-drive pass interference call on DB Jason Shivers, would prove costly as Calgary running back Joffrey Reynolds would sneak in past the plane from 1 yard out. A single and a field goal later in the quarter by Paredes would give the Stamps their first lead since the opening frame to close out the third.
The bleeding would not stop there as illegal plays would continue to prove costly for the 'Cats when an Avon Cobourne 11-yard run for a first down was nullified by a holding call on O-lineman Jason Jimenez; thus styming a drive to re-take the lead. Burris was relentless in the Stamps' second half onslaught and shutting out the Black and Gold 19-0; passing for 163 yards in the final 30. The 'Cats defence appeared to be gassed out from the constant time on the field because of it. Kevin Glenn and the offence just weren't clicking and the Stamps' defensive corps were forming a Red and White blanket over the receivers that proved to shine in the previous three weeks. However, noticably absent in the 2nd half shut out was Dave Stala. #88 was kept off the scoresheet in the latter half of the game. Was it poor play calling by Glenn and offensive co-ordinator "I had plenty of good reads, but the ball didn't go where I wanted it to" Khari Jones? Did Stala suffer a case of turf toe? Or did the Calgary defensive backs make the necessary changes in the locker room and the Ti-Cat offence failed to? I think the answer is pretty obvious there.
By the time all was said and done, Calgary moved to 4-2 on the season with a 32-20 win at ("No chance in hell") McMahon Stadium while the Tabbies drop to .500 on the season with a lot of questions and a game at Ivor Wynne against a hated foe on the horizon.
What's On Tap...
Due to a conflict when the schedule was released, the Ti-Cats will be facing their rivals from down the QEW for the only time at the Bastion on Balsam earlier than anticipated. The slumping 1-5 Toronto Ar... er, the "Blue Team"..., with a bevy of quarterback issues, trek to Steeltown this coming Saturday. This is always a heated rivalry with hard-hitting action on the field and the occasional fisticuffs in the stands. Just remember Tigertown, if you're going to be making the trek to Ivor Wynne for the 7pm start (also seen on TSN), control your consumption of alcohol pre-game and at the game. Hamilton's finest will be beefed up for the game, and while I enjoy a good "No one blows like the Argos" chant as the next Ti-Cat fan, it's not all that impactful from the inside the back of a squad car or jail cell. We'll be commentweeting LIVE from "Dief's Den" in Section 22, so if you're at the game, stop by and say "hi." You only make your first trip to the Bastion on Balsam as a 40-year old once, and Saturday, August 13th will be that for me. (For those interested, I arrived at the Big 4-0 this past Thursday, and my drink of preference is Coors Light... or Diet Pepsi for the all-ages crowd.) Until Saturday, Tigertown, oskee wee wee!
The 'Cats started off their trek to ("I tell it like it is") McMahon Stadium with a dismal start; giving up a touchdown on the Stampeders' opening drive when quarterback Henry Burris connected with Larry Taylor for a 25-yard play to the end zone. During this drive, the Tabbies' secondary looked non-existant as Burris commenced what would eventually turn into an aerial assault as "Hank" would complete 27 of 39 pass attempts for 341 yards.
The Black and Gold would hold their own as they would put points on the board when Justin Medlock pulled out his long-range kicking missile launcher by booting a 52-yard field goal on the next drive. The Stamps would return in kind by marching down the field to set up a 35-yard punch through the uprights by Rene Paredes. Kevin Glenn and company would get the ball back and begin to drive down the field with the assist of a couple pass interference penalties; including one where former Ti-Cat Geoff Tisdale attempted to strip Bakari Grant's jersey. I'm sure if Tisdale wanted a reminder of his days in Steeltown, he could've just walked to The Tigertown Store at 1 Jarvis Street and bought a replica of his old jersey. But I guess they didn't have a #9 in his size or didn't have the money at the time, so he tried to abscond with a white #84 shirt. The call would be costly as Glenn would connect with the Hamilton-raised, and Offensive Player of the Week for Week 5, Dave Stala for a 7-yard touchdown. By the time the Opening 15 had ended, we were all tied at 10 and the 'Cats had the momentum.
The Tabbies would add to their lead in the second frame when #5 and company would go down the field on their fifth drive of the half; emphasised by a 31-yard reception to rookie wide out Aaron Kelly down to the Stamps' 6 that was followed up by *bing bong* Avon (-calling) Cobourne stroll to the end zone. Kelly was the Receiver du Jour for the Ti-Cats as he would haul in 5 passes for 92 yards. A couple of traded field goals later in the half and the Boys from Balsam would lead 20-13 going into the locker room. When they returned, the wheels fell off the cart.
Going into the second half, the Ti-Cats were leading the war on penalties; being flagged once for 15 yards compared to the Stamps' being nailed four times for 66. This would soon change when defensive back Daniel Francis drew the orange hankerchief for an unnecessary roughness call at the end of a 36-yard strike by Burris to Jon Cornish. The penalty, along with a later-in-the-drive pass interference call on DB Jason Shivers, would prove costly as Calgary running back Joffrey Reynolds would sneak in past the plane from 1 yard out. A single and a field goal later in the quarter by Paredes would give the Stamps their first lead since the opening frame to close out the third.
The bleeding would not stop there as illegal plays would continue to prove costly for the 'Cats when an Avon Cobourne 11-yard run for a first down was nullified by a holding call on O-lineman Jason Jimenez; thus styming a drive to re-take the lead. Burris was relentless in the Stamps' second half onslaught and shutting out the Black and Gold 19-0; passing for 163 yards in the final 30. The 'Cats defence appeared to be gassed out from the constant time on the field because of it. Kevin Glenn and the offence just weren't clicking and the Stamps' defensive corps were forming a Red and White blanket over the receivers that proved to shine in the previous three weeks. However, noticably absent in the 2nd half shut out was Dave Stala. #88 was kept off the scoresheet in the latter half of the game. Was it poor play calling by Glenn and offensive co-ordinator "I had plenty of good reads, but the ball didn't go where I wanted it to" Khari Jones? Did Stala suffer a case of turf toe? Or did the Calgary defensive backs make the necessary changes in the locker room and the Ti-Cat offence failed to? I think the answer is pretty obvious there.
By the time all was said and done, Calgary moved to 4-2 on the season with a 32-20 win at ("No chance in hell") McMahon Stadium while the Tabbies drop to .500 on the season with a lot of questions and a game at Ivor Wynne against a hated foe on the horizon.
What's On Tap...
Due to a conflict when the schedule was released, the Ti-Cats will be facing their rivals from down the QEW for the only time at the Bastion on Balsam earlier than anticipated. The slumping 1-5 Toronto Ar... er, the "Blue Team"..., with a bevy of quarterback issues, trek to Steeltown this coming Saturday. This is always a heated rivalry with hard-hitting action on the field and the occasional fisticuffs in the stands. Just remember Tigertown, if you're going to be making the trek to Ivor Wynne for the 7pm start (also seen on TSN), control your consumption of alcohol pre-game and at the game. Hamilton's finest will be beefed up for the game, and while I enjoy a good "No one blows like the Argos" chant as the next Ti-Cat fan, it's not all that impactful from the inside the back of a squad car or jail cell. We'll be commentweeting LIVE from "Dief's Den" in Section 22, so if you're at the game, stop by and say "hi." You only make your first trip to the Bastion on Balsam as a 40-year old once, and Saturday, August 13th will be that for me. (For those interested, I arrived at the Big 4-0 this past Thursday, and my drink of preference is Coors Light... or Diet Pepsi for the all-ages crowd.) Until Saturday, Tigertown, oskee wee wee!
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