It will be a rematch of the 2022 Canadian Bowl this coming Sunday when the Okanagan Sun face the Regina Thunder in the Canadian Junior Football League semi-final.
The Sun advanced Saturday with a nail-biting 23-17 win over the Westshore Rebels in the BCFC final while the Thunder stunned the unbeaten Saskatoon Hilltops 24-19 in Sunday’s Prairie Conference final.
The Thunder were led by a stout running game as they ran up 321 yards on the ground.
All-star running back Sadik Sadik shredded the Hilltops defence for 178 yards and a pair of touchdowns completed just seven passes for 53 yards and a major.
The Sun were led by Elelyon Noa, the nation’s leading rusher who amassed 104 all-purpose yards and a touchdown. Liam Attwood booted three field goals including two during the decisive fourth quarter.
The defence intercepted four passes giving the secondary 11 thefts over two playoff games.
Weather, which can always be a factor on the prairies, shouldn’t be much of an issue when the teams take to the field next Sunday afternoon.
The temperatures are expected to be a balmy 15C at kickoff with moderate winds, although those conditions could change closer to game time.
The team is looking to host a watch party for Sunday’s game. Details are expected later in the week.
The Sun are expected to depart for Regina Saturday morning.