Rebecca Leslie scored with just 56 seconds remaining, securing her fourth goal of the playoffs and leading the Ottawa Charge to a 2-1 victory over the Montreal Victoire. This win forces a Game 4 in the best-of-five Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) Walter Cup final. The Victoire, who have two overtime wins at home, currently lead the series 2-1. Leslie’s decisive goal came after she capitalized on a rebound from Sarah Wozniewicz, despite a challenge from Montreal regarding a missed stoppage of play. Ottawa had initially fallen behind in the game, with Montreal’s Maureen Murphy scoring the first goal. The Charge equalized in the third period with a goal from Peyton Hemp, marking her first of the postseason. Game 4 is scheduled for Wednesday in Ottawa.
Why It Matters
The Ottawa Charge’s win in Game 3 of the PWHL final highlights the competitive nature of the championship series, where teams are battling for the prestigious Walter Cup. This series is particularly significant as it showcases the growing popularity and visibility of women’s hockey, especially in a league that has seen increased attendance and fan engagement, illustrated by a record crowd of 16,894. The Charge’s ability to extend the series demonstrates the unpredictable nature of playoff hockey, where momentum can shift dramatically, making each game critical in determining the champion. As the series continues, it reflects the evolving landscape of women’s sports and the importance of championship events in promoting female athletes.
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