Image: Crazy Bees Photography/Kim Douglas, used with permission / File photo of the Valley Huskers vs. Okanagan Sun. The Valley Huskers fell victim to the undefeated Okanagan Sun Saturday in a 60-14 loss. The Sun had three punt returns for touchdowns, while American running back Elelyon Noa had over 200 rushing yards to set a conference-record for rushing yards.

By Mike Vanden Bosch

Valley Huskers

Despite resounding loss to the Sun, Valley Huskers are still playoff-bound

Oct 1, 2024 | 9:54 AM

KELOWNA — American import Elelyon Noa proved to be too much for the Huskers defence Saturday by racking up over 200 yards on the ground, and the undefeated Okanagan Sun capitalized on three punt returns for touchdowns in a 60-14 win over the visiting Valley Huskers Saturday.

From the opening kickoff, the Huskers found themselves on the back foot and couldn’t sustain any offensive momentum. Their defense was on the field for far too long, and the Okanagan Sun dominated in all aspects of the game—particularly on special teams, where they scored three punt return touchdowns. Special teams coordinator Ryk Piché acknowledged the team’s struggles, taking full responsibility for their performance and committing to ensuring better preparation for the upcoming week.

Huskers quarterback Tyran Duval completed 15 of 29 passes for 225 yards, throwing 2 interceptions and 1 touchdown. The Huskers struggled to establish their ground game, rushing for a total of 50 yards on 17 carries, led by Jawad Harb who had 10 carries for 18 yards. The Sun’s powerful ground attack featuring star running back Elelyon Noa proved to be too much for the Huskers’ defense. Noa, an import from the USA, broke the Sun’s season rushing record the previous week and shattered the BCFC rushing record in this game, racking up over 200 yards on Saturday.

Despite the lopsided loss, the Huskers aim to put the game behind them as they prepare for a crucial matchup against the Vancouver Island Raiders on the road. The Raiders just upset the third-ranked Westshore Rebels, a result that significantly benefits the Huskers. Now in control of their playoff destiny, a win next weekend would secure the playoff-bound Huskers third place in the standings. Depending on the outcome of the Langley Rams vs. Westshore Rebels game, the Huskers could face either team in the playoffs, while the loser will have to travel to Kelowna to take on the Okanagan Sun.