The Montreal Victoire defenseman, Maggie Flaherty, persistently called for the puck in front of Ottawa Charge goalie Gwyneth Philips during overtime. With the Charge players crowding around Montreal captain Marie-Philip Poulin, it seemed challenging for Poulin to maneuver through. However, Poulin spotted an opportunity and swiftly passed the puck to Flaherty, whose one-timer shot beat Philips, securing Montreal’s 2-1 victory in overtime.
This win propelled Montreal to a 2-0 lead against the Ottawa Charge in the best-of-five Walter Cup final, placing them on the brink of clinching their first PWHL championship. Head coach Kori Cheverie expressed immense pride in the team’s performance, emphasizing their consistent winning style throughout the season.
The Victoire team’s success can be attributed to not only their star players but also the depth they have cultivated, a crucial element that had been lacking in previous postseason campaigns. Flaherty, a recent addition to the team as a free agent, showcased her championship experience from her time with the Minnesota Frost, impressing Cheverie with her skills and positive demeanor.
The defensive unit, led by Flaherty, has demonstrated a balanced game, excelling in both defending and scoring. Notably, defender Kati Tabin and Nicole Gosling contributed crucial goals in the games. Goalkeeper Ann-Renée Desbiens’s exceptional performance, including a pivotal save just before Flaherty’s overtime goal, was highlighted as a game-changer by Cheverie.
The intense matchup featured solid goaltending from both sides, with Philips making 22 saves. The physicality of the game was evident, with significant hits from both teams and minimal penalties. The tightly contested final underscored the thin margin of victory in the league, with both games requiring overtime to determine the winner.
As the series shifts back to Ottawa for Game 3 at the Canadian Tire Centre, both teams are gearing up for a crucial match. Montreal aims to secure the elusive title, while Ottawa seeks redemption after last year’s final defeat. The Charge’s resilience and determination were acknowledged by their coach, Carla MacLeod, who remains optimistic about their comeback in the series.
Looking ahead, Cheverie emphasized the challenges ahead for Montreal, recognizing the importance of hard work, talent, and depth to secure the decisive third win. The upcoming games promise intense competition as both teams strive for victory in the Walter Cup final.