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As the Canadian Olympic curling trials take place in Halifax, teams are competing fiercely for the opportunity to represent Canada at the Winter Games. Standout performances have come from Brad Gushue and Matt Dunstone, both displaying remarkable skill and strategic play. Following Monday’s draw, Gushue’s team improved to an impressive 3-0, narrowly defeating John Epping with a score of 5-3 in a closely fought match.
Gushue’s strategic play
In a game marked by a low score, Gushue’s team effectively capitalized on key moments, stealing points during the third and sixth ends. The St. John’s skip highlighted the significance of a well-executed angle tap in the eighth end, which allowed his team to extend their lead to 5-2. “That tap was crucial. A steal there could have shifted the momentum in John’s favor,” Gushue told CBC Sports. His meticulous attention to detail proved beneficial, as the team executed their shots with precision, reinforcing their status as one of the top contenders in the tournament.
Challenges on the ice
Following the victory, Gushue reported that the ice conditions presented some difficulties, resulting in a few errors compared to their earlier match. Nevertheless, he expressed optimism, noting, “There are definitely nerves and motivation. Being 3-0 this early in the week is promising, and I’m pleased with how we’re throwing.” His attention now turns to the upcoming match against Dunstone, which is anticipated to be an exciting contest.
Dunstone’s impressive performance
Matt Dunstone has maintained an undefeated record after a decisive 7-3 victory over Ryan Kleiter. His team established a strong position with a 5-1 lead after five ends, demonstrating effective control throughout the match. Looking ahead, Dunstone shared his anticipation for the upcoming match against Brad Gushue, whom he considers the greatest Canadian curler. “I’m pumped, can’t wait. I expect it to be a fierce battle,” he said, reflecting the competitive spirit that characterizes these trials.
Pressure and preparation
Dunstone emphasized the significance of a strong start, revealing that his team applied early pressure on Kleiter’s squad. This approach enabled them to control the scoreboard throughout the match. Gushue also recognized the challenge posed by Dunstone and his teammates, commenting on their impressive performances in recent tournaments. “They’ve been the best team in Canada this year, and we’ll need to position our rocks accurately to compete effectively,” he stated.
Women’s competition heats up
The women’s bracket is highly competitive, with Rachel Homan rebounding from a rare loss to secure a commanding 12-5 victory over Selena Sturmay, improving her record to 3-1. Homan, a two-time defending Canadian and world champion, underscored the importance of consistency in the short round-robin format. “Every game matters, and we need to keep moving forward,” she stated after her win.
In contrast, Kerri Einarson remains the only unbeaten team in the women’s division, raising her record to 4-0 following a 6-4 win against Winnipeg’s Kaitlyn Lawes. Einarson’s team scored three pivotal points in the fifth end, establishing a strong foundation for the rest of the match. “I know my team doesn’t give up easily. We felt the pressure but managed to secure the win,” she shared.
Upcoming matches and standings
The trials are intensifying as teams aim for victory. The champions of both the men’s and women’s competitions will secure a place for Canada at the Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo. With additional matches on the horizon, fans can expect fierce competition on the ice as teams fight for Olympic glory. The round-robin format will lead to semifinals and finals, heightening the excitement surrounding this prestigious event.
Attention is focused on Gushue and Dunstone, who may face off in a highly anticipated confrontation. Meanwhile, the women’s division remains equally compelling, with multiple strong contenders competing for the lead.