CO-OP Tour Challenge Day 4 Highlights: Playoff Bracket Finalized, Mostly
In a thrilling conclusion to the preliminary rounds of curling in Nisku, Alberta, the playoff bracket has taken shape following an intense Day 4 of the CO-OP Tour Challenge. With 16 action-packed draws, the competition showcased remarkable performances and dramatic moments, resulting in four tiebreaker matches scheduled for Saturday morning.
Day 4 Results and Key Matches
The exciting matches of Day 4 included the following draw results:
- Draw 13: Dropkin 6, Whyte 5 (Shootout); Ha 7, Skrlik 3; Tabata 9, Black 7; Hoesli 6, Kleiter 4
- Draw 14: Gim 9, Kim 5; Edin 5, Y. Schwaller 4 (Shootout); McEwen 9, Carruthers 3; X. Schwaller 6, Constantini 5
- Draw 15: Epping 6, Waddell 4; Hasselborg 6, Einarson 5 (Shootout); Tirinzoni 8, Fujisawa 3; Muskatewitz 4, Koe 1
- Draw 16: Wrana 9, Lawes 5; Homan 7, Yoshimura 4; Gushue 9, Dunstone 5; Retornaz 5, Mouat 3
Noteworthy Tiebreakers
Both women’s and men’s divisions will witness tense tiebreaker matches. Team Momoha Tabata from Japan will square off against Team Isabella Wrana from Sweden. In another match, Team Satsuki Fujisawa of Japan faces Team Eun-ji Gim from Korea. On the men’s side, Canada’s Team Brad Gushue will play against fellow Canadian Mike McEwen, while Germany’s Team Marc Muskatewitz will compete with Scotland’s Team Kyle Waddell.
Thrilling Highlights
One of the standout moments of the day featured a gripping match between Team Anna Hasselborg and Team Kerri Einarson. Although Hasselborg had clinched a playoff spot early, Einarson needed at least one point to secure her position.
The match was a display of strategic plays and clutch shots. Einarson managed a crucial point in the fourth end, leveling the score. However, in a pivotal seventh end, Hasselborg’s bold decision led to a shift in momentum, allowing Einarson to take the lead just before the final end.
Despite losing the match in a shootout, Einarson’s dramatic double takeout in the eighth end secured her a place in the playoffs, showcasing her resilience and skill.
Carruthers vs. McEwen
In another match, Team Reid Carruthers faced off against Team Mike McEwen, aiming for a playoff berth. The game saw a turn when McEwen capitalized on Carruthers’ errors, scoring a remarkable five points in one end. Ultimately, McEwen secured a decisive victory, eliminating Carruthers from playoff contention.
Upcoming Coverage
The playoff action continues with coverage starting at 2 p.m. ET / 11 a.m. PT on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+. Fans can expect high-stakes curling as teams battle for glory in this thrilling tournament.
