Hilltops Tradition Prevails in Nail-Biting Championship Finale
In a heart-stopping finish that will be remembered for years, the Saskatoon Hilltops have secured their 24th Canadian Bowl championship with a narrow 21-18 victory over the Okanagan Sun. The dramatic game unfolded on a chilly Sunday afternoon at SMF Field within Saskatoon's Gordie Howe Sports Complex, culminating in a last-second field goal that sealed the historic win for the home team.
Collins and Gratton Deliver Championship Performances
American import David Collins, playing running back for the Hilltops, delivered an outstanding performance that earned him the Canadian Bowl offensive player of the game honors. Collins carried the ball 26 times for 143 yards and scored two crucial touchdowns in what marked his first Canadian Bowl championship experience.
"I've never been on the opposite side of things — it feels amazing," Collins expressed after the game. "It's an unreal feeling. I never expected to feel this way. I'm very happy for what we accomplished. I'm truly blessed."
The game's defining moment came from kicker Ryden Gratton, who hadn't attempted a field goal all game until he was called upon with the score tied 18-18 and mere seconds remaining on the clock. With 28.6 seconds left, Gratton successfully booted a 37-yard game-winning field goal through the uprights.
"It didn't even feel real," admitted Gratton. "It was awesome. There's nothing better than doing that in front of all your friends and family in the stands."
Defensive Heroes Secure the Victory
The Hilltops' defence played a crucial role in the championship victory, with two key interceptions late in the game. Zaden Taylor sealed the win with a game-closing interception, while defensive lineman Huntur Johnson made a critical momentum-shifting play earlier in the fourth quarter.
With the Sun threatening deep in Saskatoon territory early in the final quarter, Johnson managed to tip a pass to himself for a crucial interception at the Hilltops' 10-yard line. The defensive stand prevented Okanagan from taking the lead and set the stage for the dramatic finish.
Hilltops head coach Tom Sargeant praised his team's resilience and leadership, particularly highlighting Taylor's game-sealing play. "It was a great play by him," Sargeant said. "That's what a captain, what a leader should do."
The victory extends the Hilltops' legendary tradition in Canadian junior football, proving once again that their championship pedigree runs deep. As the final seconds ticked away and the celebration began, the Hilltops demonstrated why they remain a dominant force in the sport, capturing their 24th national title in franchise history.
