Alexandre Gagne is optimistic that the Montreal Alouettes could attract new supporters during the Grey Cup showdown against the Saskatchewan Roughriders on Sunday. As the special-teams captain, Gagne believes that the sold-out Princess Auto Stadium, usually home to Winnipeg Blue Bomber fans, will not be backing the green-and-white Riders due to deep-rooted animosity between the two teams.
Having previously played three seasons with the Roughriders before joining the Alouettes in 2021, the backup linebacker from St. Hubert, Que., anticipates that the Blue Bombers will rally behind Montreal in the championship game, emphasizing that a victory for the Alouettes will ultimately benefit the blue team’s fans.
The Alouettes’ quarterback, Davis Alexander, has already felt welcomed in Winnipeg, with locals expressing support for the team. Despite the team’s unexpected practice disruption caused by a fire alarm triggered by a burst water pipe, the Alouettes have been preparing for the game with enthusiasm and camaraderie.
Notably, quarterback Shea Patterson, who transitioned from the Alouettes to the Roughriders and is now back with Montreal, holds no grudges against his former team. Patterson echoes Gagne’s sentiment that Blue Bomber fans might lean towards supporting the Alouettes rather than the Riders.
In a unique display of commitment and focus, Montreal players Isaac Adeyemi-Berglund and Darnell Sankey use face paint to get into the right mindset for the game. Adeyemi-Berglund emphasizes the importance of mental readiness and responsibility in facing off against the veteran-laden Riders and their skilled quarterback, Trevor Harris.
As the Grey Cup excitement builds, players and fans alike are gearing up for a thrilling clash between two formidable teams, each vying for CFL glory.