Kelly Pannek and Abbey Murphy both found the net twice for the United States as they dominated Canada in a 10-4 victory during a Rivalry Series match on Wednesday. Adding to the scoreline, Kendall Coyne Schofield tallied a goal and two assists, while Tessa Janecke, Jesse Compher, Britta Curl-Salemme, Alex Carpenter, and Kirsten Simms also contributed goals for the U.S.
The American team impressively responded with five consecutive goals after Canada struck early in the game, and then added four more in the third period. Gwyneth Philips put on a stellar performance in the U.S. goal, making 30 saves to secure the win.
On the opposing side, Sophie Jaques scored twice, Sarah Fillier notched a goal and an assist, and Julia Gosling also managed to find the back of the net for Canada. This defeat marked the first time Canada had conceded 10 goals to the U.S., surpassing the previous high of nine goals in 2012.
Following a tough start for Ann-Renée Desbiens in the Rivalry Series, where she allowed five goals on 17 shots, Emerance Maschmeyer replaced her midway through the second period, stopping seven of 12 shots. The upcoming fourth and final game of the Rivalry Series is scheduled for Saturday in Edmonton, serving as the last encounter between the fierce rivals before the Olympic Games in February.
The United States, the reigning world champions, had previously triumphed over Canada with scores of 4-1 in Cleveland and 6-1 in Buffalo, New York, in November.
As the U.S. capitalized on Canada’s vulnerable defense, a strong second period by the hosts briefly kept the game competitive, with Canada narrowing the gap to two goals entering the final period. Despite a disallowed goal after a video review, Canada failed to convert on a power play opportunity, allowing the U.S. to seal the victory with four more unanswered goals.
Canada struggled with turnovers and defensive lapses in their own zone, enabling the U.S. to dominate the play. Although Canada managed to generate pressure near the U.S. net, their efforts were not enough to turn the tide in their favor.
In the opening period, Canada outshot the U.S. 17-10, but it was the American team that displayed greater determination and effectiveness in front of both nets. The visitors quickly established a lead with goals from Coyne Schofield and Compher, maintaining control for the rest of the game.
Traditionally a longer series, the Rivalry Series was shortened this season due to the upcoming Olympic Games and the Professional Women’s Hockey League schedule. The announcement of Canada’s 23-player Olympic roster is anticipated in early January, with the team set to defend their gold medal starting on February 4 against Finland in Milan, Italy.
