Lions play waiting game

B.C. Place.

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"On behalf of the B.C. Lions Football Club, I want to ensure our fans and ticketholders that we remain in constant communication with both B.C. Place officials as well as the Canadian Football League," Lions president Dennis Skulsky said. "It is still very much our belief there will be a positive outcome to negotiations or at the very least, an assurance from both BCGEU and PAVCO that negotiations will continue in good faith enabling the club to play at B.C. Place this Saturday.

"Out of respect for the negotiation process, there will be no further comment from the BC Lions Football Club on this issue, unless circumstances require it."

Stadium workers voted overwhelmingly earlier this month in favour of a strike because of issues about job security.

The Lions are tied with Calgary in second in the West at 9-7, two points back of Edmonton. The Lions beat Edmonton 33-24 on September 30, when B.C. Place Stadium opened a year and a half following a $560 million renovation that made the 38-year-old facility among the best of its kind in the world.

The Lions had played outdoors at Empire Stadium during the renovation.

The Lions conclude the regular season October 30 at home against Montreal.

The Lions have already beaten Eskimos in two of the three games played this year and have collectively scored 28 points more. Should Edmonton win Saturday night, a points-scored differential would break the tie.

If the Lions secure a home playoff date, Lions owner David Braley will surely buy the rights to it from the Canadian Football League because of the potential of reaping a significant six-figure profit playing in the 63,000-seat facility.

The CFL has yet to comment on the Lions' situation with B.C. Place Stadium and how it might impact on this year's Grey Cup, which sold out quickly.

Perry Lefko keeps you connected to all the news in the CFL on Sportsnet.ca.