Dunstone Reaches Brier Final, Set for Rematch with Koe
ST. JOHN’S, N.L. — Matt Dunstone’s Team Manitoba is one win away from a Brier championship after a decisive 7-3 victory over Brad Jacobs’ Team Canada in the semifinal on Sunday afternoon at the Mary Brown’s Centre.1 This sets the stage for a rematch with Alberta’s Kevin Koe in Sunday night’s final.
Dunstone Defeats Reigning Champions
Dunstone, skipped by Matt Dunstone, along with third Colton Lott, second E.J. Harnden, lead Ryan Harnden, alternate Jake Horgan, and coach Caleb Flaxey, controlled the semifinal against Jacobs’ team, securing the win with a strong performance.1 Jacobs, the reigning Olympic gold medallist, struggled to find a breakthrough, managing only 3 points in the contest.
“I’m happy it’s over,” said Jacobs, who shot 91 per cent in the loss. “We tried, there’s nothing else we could do. We played hard all week, we never gave up at any point in time. And yeah, you know what, I reckon we can walk away from this Brier, hold our heads really high. Guess what we are still are?” he added with a smile. “Olympic gold medallists — can you believe it?” 1
Rematch with Koe
Dunstone will face Kevin Koe in the final, a team he lost to in the 1-2 playoff game on Saturday in an extra end.1 “Good bounce-back after a tough loss last night,” Dunstone stated. “We’re right where we want to be. Pretty excited for what’s to come in a couple hours.”1
Harnden’s Final Brier
The Brier final holds added significance for E.J. Harnden, who is set to retire after this season. He will be looking to secure his fourth Brier title in his final appearance.1 His brother, Ryan Harnden, is seeking his second Brier championship. Jacobs and the Harnden brothers are cousins, having previously won Olympic gold together in 2014.
“Congrats to those guys. I’m happy for Ryan and E.J., they get another chance,” Jacobs said. “And Dunny and Colton, they get another opportunity for their first Brier, so should be a great final.”1
Looking Ahead
The final between Dunstone and Koe is scheduled for 7:30 pm NT (6 pm ET).1 The winner will represent Canada at the World Championships, taking place from March 27 to April 4 in Utah.
Worth a look