The Ottawa Charge have secured their spot in the Walter Cup Final for the second consecutive year. In a thrilling match against the Boston Fleet, Michela Cava scored the winning goal in the second overtime, leading Ottawa to a 4-3 victory and winning the best-of-five semifinal series in four games.
Last year, Ottawa had faced defeat in the final against the Minnesota Frost. They are now set to face the winner of the Montreal Victoire-Frost series, with the final match scheduled for Monday’s Game 5.
Ottawa’s goals were scored by Sarah Wozniewicz, Rebecca Leslie, Brooke Hobson, and the crucial winning goal by Michela Cava. Gwyneth Philips, the Charge’s goaltender, made an impressive 43 saves during the game.
For the Boston Fleet, Shay Maloney, Megan Keller, and Sophie Shirley found the back of the net, with Aerin Frankel making 29 saves. Despite losing the first game, Ottawa bounced back to claim victory in the next three games. Boston, who had not experienced a three-game losing streak all season, fell short in the semifinals.
In a tightly contested match, both teams created scoring opportunities in the third period, but neither goalkeeper, Frankel nor Philips, could be beaten. The game saw a flurry of goals in the second period, with the teams tied 3-3 after 40 minutes of play.
Ottawa initially took a 2-0 lead in the second period, with Jenner scoring a goal that stood after a review. However, Boston mounted a comeback, scoring three unanswered goals to take a 3-2 lead. Ottawa managed to level the score at 3-3 after Hobson capitalized on a rebound.
The Charge opened the scoring on the power play in the first period, with Wozniewicz redirecting a pass from Cava to give Ottawa an early lead. The game was marked by intense competition and crucial plays that ultimately led Ottawa to victory.
(Image Source: Félix Desroches/CBC)
