Edmonton Elks open season with 16-12 loss to Ottawa Redblacks

By Shane Jones The Canadian Press

Posted August 8, 2021 2:31 am

Updated August 8, 2021 2:45 am

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Abdul Kanneh had a 102-yard interception return as the Ottawa Redblacks spoiled the start of the new Elks era in Edmonton, emerging with a season-opening 16-12 road victory Saturday.

LISTEN BELOW: Head coach Jaime Elizondo

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The first _ and what would turn out to be the only _ major score of the game came five minutes into the fourth quarter courtesy of the Redblacks defence, as a pass from Elks QB Trevor Harris bounced out of the hands of receiver Shai Ross and into the arms of Ottawaâ€™s Kanneh, who blazed almost the length of the field in the other direction for the winning touchdown.

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LISTEN BELOW: Trevor Harris

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The Elks (0-1) originally got on the scoreboard first, recording a 12-yard Sean Whyte field goal just over five minutes in.

Ottawa (1-0) responded with a 52-yard Lewis Ward field goal late in the opening frame.

The Redblacks looked to have surged into the lead on a trick play early in the second when punt returner DeVonte Dedmon lateralled across the field to Ryan Davis, who made a lengthy run into the end zone. But the play was deemed to have been a forward pass and called back.

The teams traded field goals before Whyte nailed a 47-yarder as time expired to make it 9-6 at the half.

The Elks will look for an improved performance next Saturday, when they host the Montreal Alouettes.