Dunstone Dethrones Olympic Champs, Eyes First Brier Title
St. John’s, N.L. – Matt Dunstone’s Manitoba team is one win away from Canadian curling glory after a stunning 7-3 victory over Brad Jacobs and his recently crowned Olympic gold medalists in the Brier semifinal on Sunday. This sets the stage for a rematch with Kevin Koe of Alberta in tonight’s championship final.
Avenging Past Losses
The win carries significant weight for Dunstone, who previously lost to Jacobs’ team in both the 2025 Brier and the Olympic Trials in November. This semifinal victory represents a major breakthrough for Dunstone and his team, Colton Lott, E.J. Harnden, and Ryan Harnden.
Jacobs Reflects on a Quick Turnaround
Despite the loss, Brad Jacobs remained gracious, acknowledging the strength of Dunstone’s performance. “I’m happy it’s over,” Jacobs said. “We tried, we played hard all week…we can walk away from this Brier, hold our heads really high. Guess what we are still are? Olympic gold medallists.” Jacobs curled at 91% in the loss.
A Familiar Foe in the Final
Dunstone will face a familiar opponent in the final: Kevin Koe. Koe defeated Dunstone in an extra end during Saturday’s 1-2 playoff game. “Good bounce-back after a tough loss night,” Dunstone commented. “Right where we want to be.”
A Career Finale for E.J. Harnden?
The Brier final holds added significance for E.J. Harnden, who plans to retire after this season. He’s seeking a fourth Brier title to cap off his illustrious career. His brother, Ryan Harnden, is aiming for his second. The Harnden brothers share a familial connection with Jacobs, as they are cousins, and all were part of the 2014 Olympic gold medal-winning team.
What’s at Stake?
The winner of the Brier championship will represent Canada at the World Men’s Curling Championship, taking place from March 27 to April 4 in Ogden, Utah. They will also earn automatic entry into the 2027 Brier as the defending champions.
The Road to the Final: A Quick Recap
Dunstone’s path to the final wasn’t uncomplicated. He navigated a challenging playoff bracket, culminating in the decisive win against the Olympic champions. Koe, meanwhile, has remained undefeated throughout the tournament, demonstrating consistent strength and strategic play.
FAQ
- When is the Brier final? Sunday night at 6 pm ET (7:30 pm local time).
- Where is the Brier being held? St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador.
- Who is playing in the Brier final? Matt Dunstone (Manitoba) vs. Kevin Koe (Alberta).
- What does the winner of the Brier win? The right to represent Canada at the World Men’s Curling Championship.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on power plays during the final. Strategic leverage of the power play can significantly impact the outcome of a close game.
Don’t miss the action! Share your predictions for the Brier final in the comments below. For more curling news and updates, be sure to check out the full schedule and standings on Sportsnet.
