In an impressive display for local hockey fans, the Vancouver Goldeneyes emerged victorious against the Ottawa Charge, winning 2-1 in a closely contested game. This marked the Goldeneyes’ continued strength on home ice, pushing their record to 3-3-0-0.
Chan and Gardiner Spark Goldeneyes Victory
Katie Chan, a 22-year-old forward from Richmond, B.C., made headlines by scoring her first goal in the Premier Women’s Hockey League (PWHL). The goal came 7 minutes and 50 seconds into the first period. Chan capitalized on a deflected shot by teammate Hannah Miller. With precision and poise, she guided the puck into the net from mid-air, sparking jubilation from the home crowd.
Chan described the moment as surreal and a fulfillment of a dream to score in front of her hometown fans. “It really meant the world to me,” she shared. Her goal set the momentum for the game, showcasing her talent and determination.
Local Talent Shines
Joining Chan on the scoresheet was Jenn Gardiner, a forward from Surrey, B.C. Gardiner netted the second goal early in the second period. After intercepting the puck in the neutral zone, she drove into enemy territory, evading defenders, before delivering a shot that hit the crossbar and found the back of the net. This was her second goal of the season, both scored at home. “It’s pretty special,” Gardiner said of her performance in front of local fans.
- Katie Chan – 1 Goal (First PWHL Goal)
- Jenn Gardiner – 1 Goal (Second of the Season)
Goalkeeping Excellence
The Goldeneyes’ success was further supported by the outstanding performance of goalie Kristen Campbell. She made 33 saves to secure her first victory with the team. Having spent the previous two seasons in Toronto, Campbell expressed her happiness in Vancouver. “It’s been incredible; I’m having so much fun here,” she remarked.
Emerance Maschmeyer also plays a key role as the team’s No. 1 goaltender, with a strong start to the season. The collaboration between Campbell and Maschmeyer fosters a supportive and competitive environment that enhances their performance.
Looking Ahead
The Ottawa Charge, facing their third consecutive loss, are struggling to regain momentum. Head coach Carla MacLeod acknowledged the unpredictability of the league, emphasizing that any team can triumph on any given night.
As the PWHL season progresses, both the Goldeneyes and Charge will look to bounce back, with players like Chan and Gardiner leading the charge for Vancouver and searching for new strategies for Ottawa.
