In a thrilling game on Friday night, defender Sidney Morin netted two goals in the third period, with Kelly Pannek sealing the win for the Minnesota Frost with an empty-net goal in the final minutes. The victory over the Montreal Victoire sets up a decisive Game 5 in the PWHL playoffs.
Minnesota’s resilience shone through as they improved to 5-0 in the playoffs when facing elimination, a streak that echoes their successful 2024 Walter Cup campaign. Additionally, the Frost boast a solid 4-1 record in Game 4 matchups.
Morin’s crucial goal, fired from near the blue line, tied the game at 1-1 with just under 12 minutes remaining in the third period. Subsequently, Minnesota capitalized on a power-play opportunity, taking a 2-1 lead with Morin’s fourth playoff goal coming from the left faceoff circle.
Despite entering the playoffs with minimal goal-scoring credentials, Morin’s standout performance has been pivotal for the Frost. Pannek, the top goal scorer in the regular season with 33 goals, contributed to the victory with a goal from the opposite end of the rink.
Montreal initially took the lead in the third period, courtesy of Maureen Murphy’s first playoff goal, but ultimately fell short against the Frost. The Montreal Victoire, who typically excel when scoring first, now face a crucial Game 5 against Minnesota.
The upcoming match, set for Monday in Laval, Que., will determine which team advances to the Walter Cup finals.