Bombers struggle in second half, lose home opener to Stampeders

WINNIPEG — A second half surge from the defending Western Conference champions spoiled the Winnipeg Blue Bombers home opening festivities Friday night.

After taking a 10-9 lead into halftime, the Bombers weren’t able to get anything going offensively in the second half, losing 29-10 to the Calgary Stampeders.

The Bombers turned the ball over three times in the first half, before Matt Nichols threw his second interception in then third quarter, which was returned for a touchdown.

After the game, Nichols said he wants to take sole ownership for the loss.

4:28 Matt Nichols post game

Nichols had one touchdown on the night, a 21-yard score to wide receiver Julian Feoli-Gudino in the second quarter. He finished 27 for 40 with 267 yards.

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On the defensive side, TJ Heath stepped up picking off Stampeders quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell twice in the first half.

The loss brings the Bombers record to 1-1 on the season. The team will have a short week before playing the Toronto Argonauts at Investors Group Field Thursday July 13.