The Bluewater Hawks and Ottawa 67s wasted no time lighting the lamp in a thrilling U22 Elite matchup, with all five goals scored in a frantic first period. The Hawks set the tone early, as Olivia Thompson, wearing number 77, opened the scoring just over two minutes into the game, assisted by Charlotte Richardson and Mathilda Moorehouse. The 67s responded with a power-play goal from Olivia Minten, but Ottawa's Logan Robertson, number 16, answered back to make it 2-1. The turning point came late in the period when the Hawks capitalized on a power play. Brynn Bellmore, number 91, found the back of the net with assists from Minten and Payton Biser, a goal that would ultimately stand as the game-winner. Ottawa's Vanessa Sciampacone scored on the power play in the final seconds of the period to cut the deficit to 3-2, setting up a tense finish.
The final two periods became a defensive and goaltending duel, with both teams tightening up significantly after the offensive explosion. The Hawks' defense, led by captain Jamie Ryall, weathered the storm as Ottawa pushed for the equalizer. The 67s' penalty trouble continued, taking a crucial head contact penalty in the third period that stalled their momentum. Despite outshooting the Hawks 8-10 in the second and third periods, Ottawa couldn't solve the Bluewater goaltending, which stood tall to preserve the narrow lead. The Hawks' disciplined play in the final frame, highlighted by key shot blocks and a strong penalty kill, sealed the victory.
In the end, the Hawks' early offensive burst and resilient defense proved to be the difference. Olivia Minten and Payton Biser each contributed two assists for Bluewater, showcasing their playmaking prowess. For Ottawa, Logan Robertson's goal and an assist from Anna Rossner provided a spark, but the team's early penalty troubles—taking three minors in the first period—proved costly. The Hawks' ability to convert twice on the power play in that decisive opening frame was the key factor in securing a hard-fought 3-2 win on home ice.
Mississauga Hurricanes #5875