The atmosphere at Mosaic Stadium was electric Friday night when the Saskatchewan Roughriders took the field for the first time in almost two years.

Nearly 33,000 fans donning Rider Green flocked to the stadium to see their beloved team once again.

Speaking to fans before the game, you could feel the anticipation

Some fans, like Sheldon, came into the game with Grey Cup aspirations.

“It’s kind of hard to leave them off with this much time,” said Sheldon. “But I definitely think when we’re coming back it’ll be more of a push this year for the Grey Cup, at least, more than anything.”

Other fans, like Shayla were just excited to experience the comradery of Rider Nation again.

“Being around everyone, and everyone being so excited and cheering all for the same thing,” said Shayla.

And many fans, like Jason, were just thrilled to see football back in Regina.

“The actual game being played, Rider pride throughout the stadium, the players being able to showcase what they can do,” said Jason. “It’s going to be a great night, a great night for football.”

When asked if COVID-19 made them hesitant to buy tickets for the game, they all said returning to Mosaic was a “no-brainer”.

Fans will have the chance to do it all again next weekend when the Riders take on the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. Tickets are available at www.riderville.com.