ST. JOHN'S, N.L. — The Kioti National has been witnessing some intense curling battles, but the match between Mike McEwen and hometown favourite Brad Gushue was something special. Thursday night's round-robin play had all eyes on the ice, and those watching were not left disappointed.
In a nail-biting game that saw both teams exhibit incredible skill and determination, it was Winnipeg's McEwen who emerged victorious with a score of 4-3. The match was neck and neck right until the end, with Gushue's fans holding onto hope that their favourite would pull through in the end.
Unfortunately for local supporters, McEwen had other plans. With his final throw in the eighth end, McEwen made a clutch takeout that ultimately led to his victory over the Newfoundland and Labrador native. Gushue, no stranger to pressure situations, gave it his all, but on this occasion, McEwen proved the better man.
The crowd was electric despite Gushue's loss, a testament to the classy sportsmanship that the teams displayed on the ice. Gushue's fans acknowledged McEwen's skills and tenacity in winning the tough match. 'We know Brad will come back stronger from this one,' a hopeful fan shared after the match.
For McEwen, the victory is a morale booster in the competitive curling tournament. With the stakes high and competition fierce, every single point matters. McEwen's triumph over a local darling shows that he means business and is a force to be reckoned with.
As the Kioti National continues to unfold, fans will be keeping their eyes on McEwen to see how he progresses in the elimination rounds. Will he ride his momentum and cause more upsets, or will he run out of steam? The next matches will have all the answers.