In a thrilling CFL showdown, Lirim Hajrullahu propelled the Toronto Argonauts to a gripping 37-31 win against the Montreal Alouettes, making history as he kicked a record-tying eight field goals. The game took place at BMO Field in Toronto on a night that showcased both teams' fighting spirit, but ultimately, it was Hajrullahu's foot that made the difference.

“I had no idea eight was the record,” Hajrullahu modestly admitted after the game. “We knew we were up against a tough opponent, and it was important for us to come out strong and secure that win. The East Division is heating up, and so are we.”

Hajrullahu first tied the record with a crucial 27-yard field goal that gave the Argonauts a 34-31 lead late in the fourth quarter. The Alouettes, trailing by just three, saw their fortunes falter when they turned the ball over on downs, allowing Toronto to seal the game with Hajrullahu’s impressive 37-yard kick.

The record he tied was previously held by CFL legends Dave Ridgway, Mark McLoughlin, and Paul Osbaldiston, who also achieved the feat in the 1980s and 1990s. With this performance, Hajrullahu not only showcased his remarkable accuracy but also confirmed his place in CFL record books.

Montreal started its last drive at midfield, but a game-ending interception by Tyshon Blackburn with only 22 seconds left sealed the Argos' victory, marking Toronto's second win in three matchups against the Alouettes this season.

Despite their loss, the Alouettes had already clinched first place in the East and home-field advantage for the division final earlier in the day thanks to the Ottawa Redblacks' loss. However, linebacker Darnell Sankey insisted that his team's focus remained on winning the game, acknowledging that they simply didn’t perform at their best.

“Our focus was on winning,” Sankey stated. “Props to Toronto for executing their game plan better than we did. They were the better team tonight.”

The win for the Argonauts puts them just a point behind second-place Ottawa, intensifying the race for playoff positioning in the East Division. Toronto's head coach, Ryan Dinwiddie, praised Hajrullahu's performance but emphasized the need to convert more red-zone opportunities into touchdowns. “We can’t rely on field goals alone. I know Lirim tied a record, but I’d rather see us score more touchdowns.”

The Argonauts' offense was significant, amassing a total of 517 net yards with a robust ground game led by Ka'Deem Carey, who rushed for 90 yards and a touchdown. Makai Polk contributed with a standout performance, recording five catches for a game-high 103 yards.

In a back-and-forth battle, Montreal quarterback Cody Fajardo completed 20 of 29 passes for 225 yards with two touchdowns and an interception, while Cole Spieker caught a 99-yard touchdown pass. The game featured thrilling moments, including a 100-yard punt return for a touchdown by James Letcher Jr., showcasing the explosive potential of both teams.

As both teams head into a bye week, fans now anticipate their next contest, hoping Toronto’s momentum continues and Hajrullahu builds upon his historic night.

Stay tuned for more updates as the CFL season heats up!