National Sports

SAGINAW — Easton Cowan's big-game reputation has only grown this season, but he's had some added motivation pushing him to another level.

VANCOUVER — The B.C. Lions' brass weren't expecting to get a lot of sleep Friday night. A decisive 29-6 win over the Edmonton Elks in pre-season play had just made some looming cuts to the team's roster all the more complicated.

WINNIPEG — Quarterback Jake Maier was glad the Calgary Stampeders had something to cheer about after an emotionally tough week.

DALLAS — Ryan Nugent-Hopkins lived the Edmonton Oilers' darkest days. The once-proud franchise endured a decade of playoff-less springs, management missteps and coaching blunders. The Oilers were a punchline across the NHL.

TORONTO — Toronto's pitchers delivered standout performances on Friday night. Davis Schneider made sure their efforts were rewarded.

SAGINAW — Ethan Hay didn't feel like there was a moment the Saginaw Spirit took over the game Friday. But he pointed to a mentality and a sense of unfinished business.

OTTAWA — No more dress rehearsals. It starts for real now. Lewis Ward helped the Ottawa Redblacks complete a perfect 2-0 pre-season Friday with four field goals in a 19-13 win over the Montreal Alouettes.

GUELPH, Ont. — The Toronto Argonauts may have found their next top receiver.

ARLINGTON — Canada dropped an important match to Serbia in Volleyball Nations League action on Friday in Arlington, Texas.

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va.