It felt like playoff football at Leibel Field on Sunday as the Regina Thunder defeated the Winnipeg Rifles 23-14 to earn a birth in the PFC Finals.

The game was delayed over 90 minutes to allow volunteers to clear off the field since an early morning winter storm blanketed the field with some slushy snow.

When the game eventually started, it was played with a heavy wind that brought some cool moisture throughout the game.

Regina scored both touchdowns of the game, with QB Carter Shewchuk sneaking in it from the one yard on both occasions.

A key turning point  came in the fourth quarter with the score in favour 16-12, a Rifles punt was blocked by the Thunder’s Avery Wagner. Following the blocked punt, the Thunder would march down the field and score their second touchdown of the game.

Despite the cold temperatures, there was plenty blood boiling on both sides with a number of penalties taken by each team.

With the victory, the Thunder will advance to the PFC Finals where they will take on their provincial rivals, the Saskatoon Hilltops.

The Hilltops advanced on Sunday by defeating the Edmonton Huskies 20-15.