Bombers putting starters on field for half of last pre-season game

WINNIPEG – Winnipeg Blue Bombers coach Paul LaPolice says his starters will be on the field for about half their last CFL pre-season game Wednesday against Hamilton.

It will be the first game of 2012 played at Canad Inns Stadium, which the Bombers thought they’d seen the last of in 2011.

Construction delays mean the new Investors Group Field on the campus of the University of Manitoba won’t be ready till next season.

Some faces will be missing — such as veteran offensive linemen Glenn January and Andre Douglas, both out with injuries.

There also will be newcomers likely to make the 2012 starting lineup such as rookie import wide receiver Chris Matthews.

The game is a big chance for players on the bubble to change their fate and will help nail down who will be No. 1 backup to quarterback Buck Pierce — Alex Brink or Joey Elliott.