REGINA — In front of an electrifying crowd clad in green at Mosaic Stadium, the Saskatchewan Roughriders clinched a decisive victory, defeating the BC Lions 28-19 in the Western Semi-Final held on Saturday night. This win earns the Roughriders a showdown with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers next Saturday at 6:30 p.m. ET, with a coveted spot in the 111th Grey Cup on the line.

AJ Ouellette shone brightly during the clash, scoring two touchdowns—one a quarterback sneak from the one-yard line in the second quarter and another a dazzling 30-yard run in the third. Overall, Ouellette tallied 14 carries for 70 yards and added 15 receiving yards from two catches.

Receiver Jerreth Sterns also found the end zone, while the Saskatchewan defense made significant contributions, with Marcus Sayles, Rolan Milligan Jr., and Nelson Lokombo each recording an interception. Quarterback Trevor Harris was efficient, completing 26 of 33 passes for 279 yards and a touchdown, showcasing his accuracy and decision-making.

On the opposing side, BC Lions quarterback Vernon Adams Jr. threw for 317 yards, connecting on two touchdown passes but also suffering an interception. Touchdown receptions were made by Justin McInnis and Jevon Cottoy, but it wasn’t enough to secure victory as the Lions fell short despite a valiant effort. Linebacker Ben Hladik stood out defensively for BC, recording 10 tackles.

The game's scoring kicked off early with the Lions taking a 6-0 lead following a spectacular 56-yard touchdown reception by Jevon Cottoy. However, the Roughriders quickly responded with a march down the field, culminating in a 34-yard field goal by Brett Lauther, bringing the score to 6-3.

As the first half progressed, the Roughriders continued to press, with a series of successful plays leading to Ouellette's first touchdown and a 13-6 lead after Lauther's extra point. Yet, the Lions answered back just before halftime with Adams Jr. finding McInnis in the end zone, tying the game at 13-13 as both teams headed to the locker room.

The second half saw the Riders seize control after a swift touchdown drive, with Ouellette rushing for his second score of the game, pushing Saskatchewan ahead 20-13.

Despite the Lions’ tenacity, including a field goal from Sean Whyte that narrowed the gap to 20-19, the Roughriders quickly regained momentum. A pivotal touchdown from Harris to Sterns, along with a successful two-point conversion, stretched the lead to 28-19.

In a nail-biting finish, the Lions attempted to rally, but the Roughriders' defense sealed the victory with an interception from Lokombo, thwarting the Lions' last attempts to turn the tide.

With this important win, the Roughriders look to build on their momentum as they head into the Western Final against the formidable Winnipeg Blue Bombers. Fans are eagerly anticipating next week's match, which promises to be a thrilling battle in the quest for the Grey Cup.