As Marc Kennedy and Ben Hebert exchanged congratulatory messages, Team Koe's mission to reach the medal round was still alive. The Canadian men’s curling team weathered the terrifying storm, defeating Japan 8-4 on Monday night.
The ability to control their own destiny almost didn't come to fruition due to a disappointing stretch entering their matchup with Japan.
Following three straight losses where they were outscored 22-15, the Canadians were in a confusing place. A possible loss to Japan meant Canada was vulnerable to slipping down the standings, but they shook off any notion that the losing streak meant it was time to hit the panic button after losing to the United States. Canada’s Brent Laing reiterated to the National Post that he’s “certainly not panicked.”
Canada steals one 🥌
— CBC Olympics (@CBCOlympics) February 20, 2018
Team Koe now 4-2 over Japan #PyeongChang2018 #Curling https://t.co/53txa0WWjb pic.twitter.com/cOPXtqUCCi
Canada’s calm demeanor made its presence felt as Japan held on for a 2-1 lead after the second end.
Canada settled in during the third end. The Canadians' stone lay inches away from the 12-inch ring to claim two points in their favor; the throw allowed Canada to retake the lead, one they wouldn’t dare relinquish for the remainder of the game.
Kevin Koe’s team built upon the third end as they scored a point in three of the five following ends to seize a comfortable 7-4 lead. After Canada gained another point on Japan, the Japanese team felt that the margin was too wide to overcome. Japan opted to concede the match as its record fell to 3-4.
“I can’t remember playing this well as a team," Koe said after the match . "And yet we’re battling. The world is coming. Canadian curlers are going to have to grind now.”
Canada, who closes out its round-robin slate against Denmark on Feb. 21, doesn’t feel like its recent misfortune is reflective of the team’s play. Instead, a feeling of optimism circulated amongst the group and helped them stay the course.
“If you’re losing games and not making shots that’s one thing,” Laing told reporters . “So if you’re playing poorly then there’s need for concern, but we’re not doing that.”
Denmark enters its meeting with Canada with a 2-5 record. The road in South Korea has been less than favorable for the Danes, whose only two wins came against Italy and Korea — who share identical records with Denmark.