The Saskatchewan Roughriders silenced all the critics as they captured the 95th Grey Cup with a 23-19 win over Winnipeg Sunday night.

 

The Saskatchewan Roughriders blood, sweat and tears over the course of the past couple of months were all worth it in the end.

The Riders beat Winnipeg 23-19 Sunday to capture the 95th Grey Cup, their third in franchise history, and first since 1989.

The Riders defense held Bombers running back Charles Roberts to just 47 yards rushing, and forced four turnovers that led to the victory.

Cornerback James Johnson intercepted Bombers quarterback Ryan Dinwiddie three times, running one back for a touchdown in the first half.  Johnson was named the game MVP, and his three picks are a Grey Cup record.

John Chick sacked Dinwiddie once and forced one fumble, which was recovered by Moose Jaw's Scott Schultz.

Riders quarterback Kerry Joseph was 13 for 34 and 181 yards, and ran for 101 yards.

Receiver Andy Fantuz was named top Canadian, catching four passes for 70 yards and one touchdown.

The game was likely Bombers receiver Milt Stegall's last, he caught five passes for 85 yards.

This is the Riders first Grey Cup since 1989 when they beat the Hamilton Ti-Cats on a last second field goal from Dave Ridgway.  It's their third in franchise history, with the first one coming all the way back in 1966.

Fans are being told not to go to the airport later today when the team gets back to Regina.  The Riders will get off the plane and jump on a bus and head over to Mosaic Stadium for a "Welcome Home" celebration.  Doors on the West Side open at 2pm, the Riders are expected to be there at 3pm.