Homan and Jacobs Claim Narrow Wins in Curling Trials Finals

UPDATE: Rachel Homan and Brad Jacobs are just one victory away from securing their spots at the Winter Olympics after thrilling wins in the opening games of the best-of-three finals at the Scotiabank Centre in Halifax.

In a nail-biting encounter, Homan’s top-ranked team narrowly edged out Christina Black’s Halifax rink with a tense 5-4 victory. The match unfolded amidst challenging ice conditions that tested both teams throughout. “We knew it would be a battle and it was,” said Homan’s second, Emma Miskew, reflecting on the intense competition.

As the clock ticked down, Black had a chance to tie the game in the final end, but her attempt fell short, allowing Homan to clinch the win. Game 2 is set for Saturday afternoon, with a potential Game 3 scheduled for Sunday afternoon if needed.

In the men’s final, Brad Jacobs triumphed over Matt Dunstone in a high-scoring showdown, finishing 9-8. Dunstone, who initially fell behind, made a stunning comeback with a four-point end in the fifth. However, Jacobs secured the win when Dunstone missed a crucial shot in the final end. “I still don’t know if we won that game, that’s kind of what it feels like,” Jacobs stated, showcasing the pressure of the match.

Both matches were played in front of a lively crowd of 6,920 spectators, with the ice proving to be a significant factor. Homan’s team struggled with the unpredictable surface, which varied from frosty to inconsistent. Homan commented on the challenges, stating, “The ice kept changing and (it was) tough to keep up with, but I thought we stayed really tough together.”

The stakes couldn’t be higher for Homan, who is on the verge of her third consecutive Olympic appearance. She previously represented Canada in 2018 at the Pyeongchang Games and in 2022 in mixed doubles, both times falling short of a medal.

Jacobs, a gold medalist from the 2014 Sochi Games, is also looking to solidify his legacy as he aims for another Olympic berth. This weekend’s winners will proudly wear the Maple Leaf at the Milan Cortina Games in February 2024.

Fans are eagerly anticipating the next round of matches as both Homan and Jacobs look to close out their series with victories. The intense competition and high stakes are sure to keep audiences on the edge of their seats as the curling trials continue.

Keep an eye on the action this weekend, as Homan and Jacobs chase their Olympic dreams!