In a stunning turn of events at the 2026 Montana’s Brier, Mike McEwen and his Saskatchewan team were eliminated from playoff contention following a 6-3 loss to Manitoba’s Team Matt Dunstone. The match, held in St. John’s, marked the conclusion of round-robin play for McEwen’s team, comprised of Colton Flasch, Kevin Marsh, and Dan Marsh.
Round-Robin Play Highlight
Prior to the decisive match, McEwen aimed to secure a playoff spot. With a 5-3 record, he shared the same standing as Braden Calvert from Manitoba. However, because Calvert had defeated McEwen in their head-to-head encounter, he advanced, claiming the final playoff position in Pool B. Meanwhile, Kevin Koe ended the round-robin with an impressive 8-0 record, followed by Dunstone at 7-1.
Match Breakdown
The stakes were high for McEwen heading into this crucial game. A win would guarantee his team’s advancement, while a loss would require them to rely on Calvert’s simultaneous match against Northern Ontario. Initially, Saskatchewan controlled the game, reaching a 2-2 tie as McEwen achieved a remarkable 98% curling efficiency, despite blanking two ends.
- In the sixth end, McEwen was forced to settle for a single point.
- Dunstone reclaimed the lead in the eighth end.
- As the final ends approached, McEwen’s chances diminished, needing to equalize for an extra end.
The turning point came during the tenth end when McEwen realized that Calvert had secured his advancement with an 8-4 victory. Dunstone’s executed strategies thwarted McEwen’s attempts to secure a decisive score.
McEwen’s Future
This loss capped a challenging week for McEwen, who was dealing with a head cold. As the Brier concluded, the future of his team remains uncertain. At 45, McEwen’s ambition for a Brier championship will have to wait another year, as much younger players surround him on his team.
Noteworthy Performances
Despite his team’s struggles, the Brier witnessed standout performances from other players, including Ontario’s Jayden King. In his debut, King made history as the first Black skip in Brier events. King’s team secured a playoff position with a solid 5-3 round-robin record.
King’s Journey
Facing high-pressure scenarios, Ontario overcame setbacks to defeat Quebec in a pivotal match. A three-ender during the seventh end was crucial in their victory, followed by another solid win against Saskatchewan.
- King’s team showcased resilience and teamwork despite initial challenges.
- They will enter the playoffs as underdogs, ready to make their mark.
Top Seeds
As the playoffs approach, Newfoundland & Labrador’s Brad Gushue and Alberta’s Kevin Koe have emerged as formidable forces, each finishing as the top seed in their respective pools. Gushue remains undefeated at 8-0, highlighted by a significant win against defending champions Brad Jacobs.
Both teams will face formidable opponents in the Page 1-2 qualifier game, with Koe taking on Jacobs and Gushue matched against Dunstone. The competition heats up as teams vie for a chance at the championship.
