Photos from the OUA Semi-final game vs. the University of Ottawa Gee Gees at Frank Clair Stadium in Ottawa, November 4, 2006.

The Queen's Golden Gaels 2006 football season came to a close at Frank Clair Stadium with a 23-10 defeat at the hands of the Ottawa Gee Gees in a defensive struggle. With both the first and third quarters scoreless, the Gee Gees outscored the Gaels 15 - 3 in the second and 8-7 in the final quarter.

Mirroring the offensive inconsistency shown throughout much of the 2006 regular season, the Gaels had trouble sustaining their drives, and could not capitalize on enough of their opportunities which included 3 picks off Ottawa QB Josh Sacobie. Danny Brannagan was good on 13 0f 39 passes for 189 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception. Brad Smith had 4 receptions for 67 yards, Robb Bagg had 2 receptions for 30 yards, and Scott Valberg had 2 receptions for 27 yards and Queen's only touchdown. On the ground, Mike Giffin gained 87 yards on 19 carries.

Defensively, the Gaels held Sacobie to 224 yards and 1 TD in passing (19 of 31) but gave up 129 yards on the ground by Dave Mason on just 8 carries, and an additional 89 yards by Michael Donnelly on 17 carries. Both RB's scored touchdowns including an 82-yard draw in the games waning moments by Mason just after the Gaels had been stopped deep in Ottawa territory (the dreaded red zone). Leading the Queen's defense were Adam Ross with 8.5 tackles, DJ Mulholland with 7.5, Ian Hazlett with 6 and Jimmy Allin with 5.5. Matt Vickers and Kirby Calvert had the interceptions.

The Queen’s football Club’s pre-game party for Gaels supporters at the Barley Mow filled the pub to capacity with many former Gaels (including single-game reception record-holder James Maclean and former coach Bill Mullins), Gael parents, Queen's alumni and friends joining in the festivities.

It was a more subdued Queen’s crowd following the game. As is usual at this time of year, the last game of the season means a farewell to a number of the key seniors who have played such an important part of the Golden Gaels most recent history. Fifth year players in 2006 were Kirby Calvert, Ryan Freeman and DJ Mulholland and all will be missed – not only for their sterling play but their leadership and team play. A number of 4th year players such as but not limited to Brad Smith, Adam Ross, Sean O’Donnell, Cody Kennedy, Robb Bagg, Ian Hazlett, Ross Corley, Mitch Carkner, Ryan Elger, Eric Isenor, Chris Manion, Pat McCalmont, Ryan Vettorazzo, and Pat Corbin may elect to go on to other endeavours including the CFL, but could also anchor a strong veteran team in 2007. And for the parents of any departing Gaels, we hope your support of and association with the team doesn’t end with your sons’ Queen’s Football careers. In some ways it’s like Hotel California – once you check in, you can never leave.

November 7, 2006: Congratulations to our 2006 OUA All-Stars - Brad Smith (First Team), Adam Ross (Second Team)and Sean O'Donnell(Second Team).

All photos are Copyright (c) Jeff Chan 2006, but may be used for personal non-commercial use, or by Queen's University or the Vanier Cup with appropriate photo credit, unless otherwise authorized.

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NOTE: Late on Saturday night, November 4, the Queen's and Kingston football community lost a valued friend - long-time Queen's assistant coach Berk Brean. Berk had battled cancer courageously for the past several years, and throughout never lost his "gentleman's" composure...nor his ever present clipboard. He will be sorely missed, but not forgotten for the effect he had on so many young men's lives. See a photo tribute at: http://www.pbase.com/goldengaelsphotos/20061104_berk_brean

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