The 2020 Scotties Tournament of Hearts at Mosaic Place had a final for the ages on a Sunday night in February, with Manitoba defeating Ontario 8-7 in an extra end.

It was the second top sports story of the year. 

Manitoba skip Kerri Einarson hit her draw to the eight-foot to seal the win, just one end after her draw went just a bit too far, forcing the extra end. It was the first-ever Scotties title for Einarson who was understandably emotional after the game.

“This means absolutely the world to me,” Einarson said. “I really wanted to do this for myself and my teammates. Especially Val (Sweeting). She lost two big finals. We really put it together this week and I’m so proud of everyone.”

Her third, Sweeting, lost two Scotties finals as a skip for Alberta in previous years – including at Mosaic Place at the 2015 Scotties.

The last shot was as dramatic as they come, with an out-turn draw to the eight-foot.

“I knew it was going to be close,” Einarson said. “I threw a few draws, and I knew with my out-turn, I knew that weight. So I just really dialed in, I took my time, I really focused and let my sweepers take it over.”

Ontario skip Rachel Homan nearly came from behind to win but ended up losing her second Scotties final in a row.

“It does sting and it sucks to lose,” she said. “But it’s awesome to lose to such a great team and they’re going to be great representatives for Canada and good luck to them.”

The Einarson rink was looking forward to represent Canada at the worlds in Prince George in March but the pandemic paused and then cancelled that.

On the evening of the victory, Einarson was happy she was able to accomplish this with her team.

“They played so well all week and if it wasn’t for them, I don’t know where I’d be today,” she said. “They’re such really great teammates and great supporters. All those shots I made out there were because of them, with the sweeping and linecalling. I just absolutely love my teammates.”