The Creighton Kodiaks hope to bolster their playoff chances Thursday following the football club’s first-ever regular season loss.
The Kodiaks were missing six players when they fell 39-22 last Thursday, Sept. 15 in Sandy Bay.
“We made a few crucial turnovers at crucial times,” said head coach Ryan Karakochuk.
Creighton started the game on a high note, going up 12-0 before a Hail Mary pass and a 60-yard run by Sandy Bay left the Kodiaks trailing 34-12.
“That really crippled us moving forward, and [Sandy Bay] played well. My hat is off to them,” said Karakochuk.
Quarterback Bailey Eastman was strong for the Kodiaks, completing 50- and 30-yard touchdown runs. Linden Moore completed a 30-yard touchdown run. Another two points came when the Kodiaks defence got a safety.
The loss saw the Kodiaks dress 12 players, nine of whom were playing in their first Northern Saskatchewan Football League game. Six players missed the game due to a school canoe trip.
Karakochuk said Thursday’s home game against Cumberland House is crucial.
“In order for us to have a chance at the playoffs, we really need to win this game,” he said, adding that with a four-game season, there isn’t much chance for teams to catch up.
The Kodiaks hope for a strong turnout tomorrow, Thursday, at 4 pm local time at the Creighton soccer / football field. There is no admission charge.
