In an electrifying showdown, Boston Fleet clinched a thrilling 3-2 shootout victory against the New York Sirens, thanks to Aerin Frankel's exceptional goaltending performance. The game took place in Lowell, Massachusetts, marking a significant career milestone for Frankel as she became the first goalie in the Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL) to achieve 1,000 saves.
The match began with intensity as Alina Müller scored for Boston with just 13 seconds remaining in the first period, capitalizing on a breakaway opportunity and giving the Fleet an early lead. The momentum continued into the third period when Hannah Bilka, assisted by Hilary Knight, swiftly executed a wrist shot past New York's goaltender, Corinne Schroeder, extending Boston's lead to 2-0.
Nevertheless, the Sirens were not to be underestimated. In the final moments of the game, they mounted a spirited comeback. Sarrah Fillier's late shot slipped under Frankel's glove, allowing Ella Shelton to capitalize and narrow the deficit. With only two minutes left on the clock, the Sirens intensified their efforts, deploying an extra attacker. This bold strategy paid off as another powerful shot from Shelton, set up by Abby Roque, leveled the score at 2-2, forcing overtime.
The overtime period was a tense stalemate, with both teams unable to break the deadlock even in a three-on-three format. It all boiled down to the shootout, where Frankel's prowess in net shone brightly. Alina Müller's initial shootout goal proved decisive, with Knight adding further pressure by scoring in the second round. New York's shooters, including Noora Tulus and Sarrah Fillier, were repeatedly stymied by the indomitable Frankel, who effectively sealed the win by denying Jessie Eldridge and Abby Roque.
This victory was not just about the immediate triumph; it catapulted Boston from sixth place to a tie for fourth with Ottawa, both teams standing with 17 points. The Sirens, meanwhile, currently hold third place, maintaining a narrow two-point lead over Boston. These teams are set to clash four more times in their upcoming seven encounters, including a much-anticipated match in Buffalo as part of the league’s special Takeover Tour.
Frankel's historic 1,000th save is a testament to her skill, dedication, and resilience in the PWHL. This landmark achievement highlights her vital contribution to the Fleet's successes and her standing as one of the league's premier goaltenders. As the season progresses, fans and teams alike will be eagerly watching these two rivals face off, given their closely contested rankings and the potential playoff implications of each game.