Alberta heading back to the U18 Women’s National Championship Gold Medal match after defeating Manitoba 30-12
Photo Credits: Paul Jordan Photography
July 25, 2024, Fredericton, NB – Alberta is headed back to the Gold medal match after a hard-fought 30-12 victory over Manitoba in the semifinal of the 2024 U18 Women’s National Championship at BMO Field in Fredericton, NB, on Thursday afternoon.
In a game that showcased both teams’ powerful running attacks, Alberta’s big-play ability ultimately proved to be the difference. The win propels Alberta (2-0) to back-to-back championship games, while Manitoba (1-1) will play for bronze.
Alberta struck first when Sarah Fagnan capped off a 9-play, 56-yard drive with a 1-yard touchdown run at 3:32 in the first quarter. Manitoba responded quickly, with Eden Gates scoring on a 1-yard run to tie the game at 6-6.
The second quarter saw both teams exchange touchdowns. Sidanee Bowers put Alberta back in front with a 1-yard run, while Kiera Bowley answered for Manitoba with a 9-yard touchdown rush. Alberta took a narrow 14-12 lead into halftime.
After a scoreless third quarter, Alberta’s offense exploded in the fourth. Rehema Holaki broke free for a 21-yard touchdown run, extending Alberta’s lead to 22-12. The knockout blow came when Sarah Fagnan connected with Sidanee Bowers for a 60-yard touchdown pass, sealing the 30-12 victory.
Alberta’s ground game was led by the dynamic duo of Rehema Holaki and Sarah Fagnan. Holaki rushed for 132 yards and a touchdown on 10 carries, while Fagnan contributed 126 yards and a touchdown on 10 carries. Sidanee Bowers showcased her versatility with 39 rushing yards, 70 receiving yards, and two touchdowns.
For Manitoba, Eden Gates put in a valiant effort, rushing for 217 yards and a touchdown on 28 carries. Norah Vaillant added 81 rushing yards on 14 attempts.
Defensively, Alberta was led by Ruby Lastiwka, who recorded 12 solo tackles, 5 assists, 2 sacks, and a fumble recovery. Madison Harrison contributed 7 solo tackles and 6 assists. For Manitoba, Marygrace Oluwadare stood out with 8 solo tackles, 5 assists, and a tackle for loss.
Alberta’s defense was particularly effective in crucial moments, stopping Manitoba on multiple goal-line stands. They also forced two fumbles, recovering one late in the fourth quarter to seal the victory.
Despite the loss, Manitoba showed impressive determination, controlling the time of possession with 29:40 compared to Alberta’s 18:20. However, Alberta’s big-play ability on both sides of the ball proved to be the deciding factor.
MVP’s of the Game
Alberta
Offensive
QB – Sarah Fagnan
Defensive
LB – Ruby Lastiwka
Saskatchewan
Offensive
RB – Eden Gates
Defensive
DB – Marygrace Oluwadare
This victory sets up Alberta for a shot at the gold medal, while Manitoba will look to regroup and finish strong in the bronze medal game.
Full detailed stats and game play-by-play information can be found here.
About U18 Women’s National Championship: The U18 Women’s National Championship is a premier event in the Canadian football calendar, showcasing the best young female talent from across the country. This tournament serves as a crucial platform for player development and provides a pathway for athletes aspiring to compete at higher levels, including national team programs.
About Football Canada: Football Canada is the national governing body for amateur football in Canada. Football Canada’s mission is to initiate, sustain, and encourage programs, services, and activities targeted at all levels of the game of football in Canada. The organization oversees various programs and competitions, including national championships, coach and official certification programs, and national team programs for tackle, flag, and touch football. Football Canada is committed to fostering the growth and development of football at all levels across the country.
About Football New Brunswick: Football New Brunswick is the provincial sport governing body for amateur football in New Brunswick. The organization is dedicated to promoting, developing, and governing all aspects of football within the province. Football New Brunswick works tirelessly to provide opportunities for athletes, coaches, and officials at all levels of the sport. Through various programs and initiatives, they aim to increase participation, improve the quality of play, and create a positive and inclusive football community throughout New Brunswick. As hosts of this year’s U18 Women’s National Championship, Football New Brunswick demonstrates its commitment to advancing women’s football and showcasing the province’s sporting capabilities on a national stage.
For more information about the 2024 U18 Women’s National Championship, visit footballcanada.com or contact bstachel@footballcanada.com.
