The Boston Fleet continued its undefeated streak with a 2-0 win over the Vancouver Goldeneyes.
The Fleet hosted the Goldeneyes at Agganis Arena in Boston, Massachusetts Wednesday (Dec. 3).
Boston rookie Abby Newhook scored just over five minutes into the first period.
The Fleet dominated the first period, “outshooting Vancouver 19-2.” The Goldeneyes did not take their first shot on net until 14:54 in the first period.
Vancouver’s goaltender, Emerance Maschmeyer, fought to keep her team in the game, making 18 saves in the first period.
The Goldeneyes increased their shots on goal during the second and third periods, but were not able to get the puck past Newhook and into the back of the net.
The Fleet’s Jill Saulnier scored in the 6th minute of the third period, giving the Fleet a 2-0 lead, which they held onto until the end of the game.
Vancouver Head Coach Brian Idalski said, “Tough first period. I thought [Emerance Maschmeyer] was terrific for us, gave us a chance, kept us in there. I thought we got our feet going and played a little better there in the second and third, but we’ve got to play a full 60 for sure.”
Fleet goalie Aerin Frankie has had two shutouts this season and has stopped 70 of 71 shots so far.
Fleet goaltender Aerin Frankel said, “I’m just really excited for our team’s success. Being 3-0 is incredible and obviously it’s a really long season, but if you like how you’re playing at the beginning of the year, it’s a pretty good indication of what this group is capable of. Anytime we can get a win, especially at home, is really exciting. We had such great support from our fans and we’ll be back here on the weekend. We’re all looking forward to keeping things rolling.”
This was Vancouver’s third loss of the season, ending a three-game road trip.
Goldeneyes captain Ashton Bell said, “We grew a lot today from our first two games on this road trip, and seeing how we rallied in the d-zone today, I think structurally we were a lot better. We had a great second there and had some momentum going into the third. We’ve just got to find ways to bury it. Frankel’s an outstanding goalie, and all the goalies in the league are, so just finding a way to get into the crease and take their eyes away and be harder to play against.”
Goldeneyes forward Sarah Nurse did not play for the third game in a row due to an upper-body injury.
Vancouver’s next game is at home on Dec. 6 at 12 p.m. PT against the New York Sirens at the Pacific Coliseum.
The PWHL entered its third season on Nov. 21 with its original six teams: Toronto Sceptres, Montreal Victoire, Ottawa Charge, Minnesota Frost, Boston Fleet, and New York Sirens, along with the two new teams, Vancouver Goldeneyes and Seattle Torrent.
In Canada, Tuesday night games will stream on Prime Video, Wednesday night games will be on TSN, Thursday night games will air on TSN and Sportsnet. Friday, Saturday and Sunday games will air on CBC, TSN, and Sportsnet.
About the Author: Anna Burns
I cover breaking news, health care, court, Vancouver Rise FC, Vancouver Goldeneyes and social issues-related topics for the Surrey Now-Leader. anna.burns@surreynowleader.com Follow Anna on Twitter.