In a week marked by both triumph and sorrow, the Edmonton Elks managed to secure a hard-fought 27-25 victory over the Saskatchewan Roughriders at Commonwealth Stadium, a game that resonated deeply with fans and players alike. The match took place just days after the untimely passing of the team’s owner, Larry Thompson, who died at the age of 65 due to complications following surgery. Thompson's impact on the team and the Edmonton community was palpable, and his passing cast a shadow over the arena.
President and CEO Chris Morris expressed the profound loss felt by the organization, stating, “Larry’s toughness and direct nature were matched only by his genuine care for the entire Elks family.” The Elks honored Thompson with a moment of silence before the game, and fans proudly displayed tributes, emphasizing the community's connection to the late owner.
As for the game itself, it was a classic display of Canadian football, with both teams exchanging leads in a high-stakes contest. The Roughriders, led by quarterback Cody Fajardo, started strong but stumbled in the second half. The Elks, needing this win to keep their slim playoff hopes alive, rallied with a stellar performance from Justin Rankin, who scored two critical touchdowns in the fourth quarter. His 37-yard run to the end zone restored Edmonton's lead after Saskatchewan had briefly taken control.
The nail-biting finish saw the Roughriders march downfield for a potential game-tying touchdown. However, a failed two-point conversion on the last play of the game preserved the Elks' victory and showcased the resilience of a team playing not only for their season but also in memory of their late owner.
With this victory, the Elks improved their record to 6-9, while the Roughriders fell to 10-4, marking their second consecutive loss. As the season nears its conclusion, Edmonton will need to win their remaining games and receive some help to secure a postseason berth. The Elks' performance against Saskatchewan, however, served as a testament to their fighting spirit and dedication, both to the game and to the legacy of Larry Thompson.