In a penalty-filled, back-and-forth battle, the Bluewater Hawks emerged victorious with a dramatic 3-2 overtime win over the London Devilettes in U22 Elite action. The game was a story of special teams and resilience, with the Hawks overcoming a two-goal deficit in the third period before sealing the deal on the power play in the extra frame. The Devilettes struck first in the second period, with Emma Bovin (#98) opening the scoring at even strength, assisted by Colbie Farr (#89) and Emerson Moore (#92). They doubled their lead just over five minutes later on a power play, as Julia McIntosh (#15) found the back of the net, with Moore and Farr again picking up the helpers. London's goaltender, Ella Gracey (#31), was a fortress through two periods, turning aside 18 shots to preserve the lead.
The tide turned decisively in the third period, as the Hawks' power play came alive. Just 19 seconds into the final frame, Olivia Minten (#23) capitalized on a man-advantage to cut the deficit in half. Less than two minutes later, Maggie Alcock (#16) tied the game at 2-2, with Minten and Zoé Morin (#10) providing the assists. The game grew increasingly chippy, with a parade to the penalty box for both sides, including a double minor for head contact and a rare penalty for leaving the bench. With the game tied after regulation, the Hawks carried their momentum into overtime. On another power play, Maggie Alcock (#16) became the hero, netting her second of the game with just over two minutes left in OT, assisted once more by Olivia Minten and Hannah Ahlberg (#33).
Ultimately, the Hawks' special teams proved the difference. Goaltender Zoey McKellar (#37) earned the win with a 30-save performance, while Ella Gracey was stellar in a losing effort for London, making 26 saves. The Hawks' top line of Minten, Alcock, and Morin was instrumental in the comeback, combining for two goals and four assists. Despite a strong start and a 32-29 shot advantage, the Devilettes couldn't withstand the Hawks' third-period surge and a costly penalty in overtime, handing Bluewater a hard-fought and character-building victory.
Mississauga Hurricanes #5875