In an electrifying opener of the 2026 PWHL Walter Cup Playoffs, the Boston Fleet emerged victorious, defeating the Ottawa Charge 2-1. The game took place on April 30, 2026, at the Tsongas Center, marking the beginning of a best-of-five semifinal series.
Game Highlights
Boston went into the second period down 1-0 after Ottawa’s alternate captain, Jocelyne Larocque, scored during a five-minute power play. However, the Fleet came back strong with two quick goals within 1:31.
- Alina Müller tied the game at 17:56 with a top-shelf goal on a fast break.
- Jamie Lee Rattray scored the game-winning goal at 19:27, delivering a backhand shot while on her knees.
Jessie Eldridge played a significant role by contributing assists on both goals, while Müller tallied two points for the evening. Goalkeeper Aerin Frankel defended the net for Boston, stopping 17 shots, while Ottawa’s Gwyneth Philips recorded 26 saves in a losing effort.
Key Statistics
| Team | Shots on Goal | Power Play Efficiency |
|---|---|---|
| Boston Fleet | 28 | 1-for-6 |
| Ottawa Charge | 18 | 1-for-18 in last season’s playoffs |
Looking Ahead
The teams will return to the ice for Game 2 on Saturday, May 2, at 7 p.m. ET, also at the Tsongas Center. Boston will aim to extend its series lead, while Ottawa looks to bounce back from its first loss in playoff Game 1 history.
Coaches’ Insights
Boston’s head coach, Kris Sparre, praised his team for maintaining composure under pressure. He noted the importance of seizing opportunities in high-stakes situations. Rattray echoed these sentiments, expressing enthusiasm about their strong start.
On the other hand, Ottawa’s coach, Carla MacLeod, recognized the fierce competition between both teams, highlighting the physicality that characterized the match. Larocque emphasized the need for the team to regroup and build from their first playoff experience.
Notable Performances
Alina Müller achieved her first multi-point playoff performance, leading in shots on goal. Other standout performances included:
- Jessie Eldridge’s assists in her playoff debut.
- Jamie Lee Rattray scored her first career playoff goal.
- Aerin Frankel’s sixth career playoff victory.
This match marked a significant moment in Boston’s playoff history, with the team improving its postseason record to 3-0 in Game 1s. The Fleet have historically marked their playoff wins with close scores, reinforcing their reputation as a challenging contender in the league.
