Derek Slywka’s first career touchdown was exceptional. His second wasn’t bad, either.
The 24-year-old Argos °ù´Ç´Ç°ì¾±±ðÌý against the Ottawa Redblacks on Sunday, the fourth-longest fumble return touchdown in CFL history, then returned a missed field goal 120 yards to lead ÎÚÑ»´«Ã½ to its first win of the season.Ìý
Slywka is the first CFL player with two touchdowns of more than 100 yards in the same game since 2015.
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“The most memorable part of it (was) celebrating that win and seeing (my teammates’) reaction and my family when I walked in front of the buses,†he said Thursday.
“That is something I’ll never forget … That’s why I love football, because it’s such a team sport.â€
Both plays made the rounds on social media and Slywka has heard from his hometown (Waterloo, N.Y.) and university friends (Ithaca College). But one of the footballs he received after the game is likely headed to his grandfather Teddy’s house. “I know my grandpa would think it’s pretty cool,†he said.
While Slywka might have jump-started the Argos’ season, they need to start piling up wins after an 0-3 start. They host Hamilton at BMO Field on Friday.
“There’s a lot at stake,” Argos head coach Ryan Dinwiddie said. “We’re both sitting at one win apiece and you don’t want to be stuck in a hole early in the season. So it’s a big game, one that almost feels like a must-win this early in the year.
“We’ve just got to find ways to get creative and get in the end zone.â€
The Argos lost all three regular-season games against the Tiger-Cats last season.Ìý
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Dinwiddie said the Argos’ win over Ottawa will go a long way in building his players’ confidence. “It’s tough to win in professional sports,” he said, “so when you do, you’ve got to celebrate it.â€
ÎÚÑ»´«Ã½ is still dealing with several injuries to key players, but there’s hope some, including linebacker Wynton McManis and running back Deonta McMahon, could be back after the bye week that follows the Ticats game. There is no word on when quarterback Chad Kelly will return.
Slywka says he will be ready Friday.
“I guess that’s always the plan, you prepare and try to make as many plays as you can when you get the opportunity,†said Slywka, who had a short stint as a wide receiver with Indianapolis in the NFL.
“We get an opportunity to keep stacking wins, and I think everyone here is excited for that.â€
Gilbert Ngabo is a ÎÚÑ»´«Ã½-based sports reporter for the Star.
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