Dominion Championship Victory: Ottawa College vs. Montreal Football Club 1887

Name: Dominion Championship Victory: Ottawa College vs. Montreal Football Club 1887
Start: 1887-11-05
Location: Unspecified

An Epic Clash for the Dominion Championship

The 1887 Dominion Championship Match

The year was 1887, and the atmosphere was electric as Ottawa College faced off against the Montreal Football Club in a historic showdown for the Dominion championship. Held on a crisp autumn day, this match was not just another game but a battle for supremacy in Canadian rugby, showcasing the burgeoning sport's popularity across the nation. The final score of this gripping contest tilted in favor of Ottawa College, who emerged victorious with a score of 10-5.

This match represented a significant milestone in Canadian sports history, marking one of the early instances of organized football in Canada and establishing the fierce rivalry that existed between teams from Ontario and Quebec. The game was played under the rules of the Ontario Rugby Football Union (ORFU) against the framework set by the Quebec Rugby Football Union (QRFU), highlighting the different styles evolving within the sport.

Key Moments from the Match

Ottawa College’s victory can be attributed to their disciplined play and strategic execution throughout the match. By leveraging their strong defensive lineup and effective offensive plays, they managed to outmaneuver their opponents. This win not only crowned them the champions but also set a standard for future teams aspiring to compete at such a high level.

Despite the loss, the Montreal Football Club demonstrated resilience and skill. Their players showcased a fighting spirit that kept the game close and engaging, ultimately establishing a foundation for the fierce competition that would characterize future matchups between the two clubs.

Fun Fact

A Unique Touchdown in Canadian Rugby

One interesting fact from the 1887 championship is that it included a style of play wherein the team scored by kicking the ball through the goalposts, a precursor to modern-day rugby scoring techniques, giving fans a taste of the evolution in the sport.