Detroit, Michigan, hosted part of the Takeover weekend on March 16th. A matchup between Ottawa and Boston, at Little Caesar’s Arena.
It was the first game of the takeover weekend, a matchup between Boston and Ottawa, both teams fighting for that fourth and final playoff spot. 13,736 fans came to watch the game, this was the highest attendance record in the United States. Little Caesar’s Arena was buzzing all day long, a Detroit expansion team would thrive well in this area of the Hockeytown.
Before the game, the players and fans were honored to watch the first-ever woman to play in the National Hockey League (NHL), Manon Rhèaume, drop the ceremonial puck. -PWHL Official
This game was special to all the players, but for some, it was even more special. Boston players Megan Keller, Taylor Girard, and Shiann Darkangelo were honored to play in their home state in front of the big and passionate crowd on Saturday. They attended and were honored at the Detroit Red Wings game the previous night.
Michigan natives Megan Keller, Taylor Girard, and Shiann Darkangelo rang the fan bell at the Detroit Red Wings game on Friday night. -Detroit Red Wings/PWHL Official
The first period started right for Boston fans as Hilary Knight got one in the back of the net off a rebound from Megan Keller’s shot. Captain Hilary Knight has been quiet this season but Boston fans are always so loud when she gets on board. This goal was assisted by Michigan native Megan Keller. Getting a point in her home state.
As the time was winding down with about five minutes left to go in the first, the game was tied up by Ottawa’s forward, Emily Clark. After a turnover in the Boston zone, she ripped one into the top left corner to even this game.
The second period was a back-and-forth battle, with both teams desperate to get a puck in the back of the net. With 15 minutes left to go in the first, Loren Gabel took a nasty hit against the boards and did not get up. The trainers went onto the ice to assist her before helping her to the locker rooms. It is unclear what her current condition is but last heard, she was getting x-rays on her AC joint (shoulder). Losing Gabel before the playoffs is scary for Boston. Hoping for a speedy recovery.
The third period came and this game is still tied at one. Aerin Frankel and Emerance Maschmeyer had been unstoppable during this game, making saves right and left. As the clock expired in the third period, the fight continued into overtime in Hockeytown.
Ottawa had more shots on goal in overtime, they were desperate to get a puck past Frankel. Hannah Brandt had a great opportunity to put this game away but that was stopped by an amazing defensive play by Gabbie Hughes.
As overtime ended Ottawa captain Brianne Jenner missed an open net shot and it hit the post, sending this game to shootouts.
Shootout arrived in Hockeytown and it was a big one. Here is a full summary of the shootout:
Round 1- Scamurra and Müller missed their shots. 0-0
Round 2- Mrasova and Brandt got their shots in the back of the net. 1-1
Round 3- Harmon missed her shot and Hilary Knight buried hers. 1-2
Round 4- Jenner and Rattray missed their shots. 1-2
Round 5- Aerien Frankel shuts the door on Snodgrass to secure the win for Boston. 1-2 FINAL
It was an electric ending to a great afternoon! Boston won 1-2 in the shootout! Captain Hilary Knight got player of the game and Boston regained the last playoff spot!
Boston will play Toronto on Wednesday, can they put their historic run to an end or will Toronto extend their winning streak to 11 games?
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