ESTEVAN -
The Estevan Power Dodge U12 Chargers are off to the semifinal round in the Moose Jaw Minor Football League's playoffs.
Estevan defeated the Assiniboia Rockets 44-26 on Monday afternoon at the Dana Quewezance Memorial Field at Woodlawn Athletic Park. Dexx Tendler had four of Estevan's touchdowns and Jax Trombley notched the other three.
Estevan led 19-18 at half time and allowed just one touchdown in the second half. They forced Assiniboia to turn the ball over on downs a couple of times late in the fourth quarter, including a defensive stand when Assiniboia was within several yards of the Estevan end zone.
"I'm very proud of the defence today," said coach James Haagsman. "They pulled it out for us for the win."
Estevan put the game away with a rushing touchdown moments after the second turnover on downs.
"I told them that our chances for the playoffs hinge on certain key plays, and they were able to step up to the challenge," said Haagsman.
When the two teams met earlier this season, Estevan won 66-54. Since that time, Estevan has added Trombley to the team, making a big difference to their defence.
Estevan will now play the Moose Jaw Lions in the semifinal round Friday night in Moose Jaw. The two teams met earlier this season, with the Lions winning 51-47, also in Moose Jaw. Haagsman knows there will be a short turnaround time between the two playoff games, but he believes there should be enough time for the Chargers to recuperate.
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The Estevan Comprehensive School Elecs closed out the regular season with a 46-22 loss to the Weyburn Comprehensive School Eagles on Saturday.
Coach Chris Bayerle said the defence came out strong, but the Elecs were pinned in their end for much of the game's early stages.
Doran Sifton, Preston McGuire and Jayden Smith had the Elecs' touchdowns. Smith's score was on a kickoff return.
The game was the annual Senior Bowl, and the graduating Grade 12 students for both teams were recognized.
The Elecs finished the regular season with a 0-6 record. They will visit the Swift Current Colts in the first round of the playoffs on Oct. 19 in a consolation round game.
