The East Ottawa Stars secured a hard-fought 4-2 victory over the visiting Kingston Ice Wolves in a U22 Elite matchup that featured a strong goaltending duel and a crucial third-period response. The Stars struck first early in the opening frame when Angélie Vallée, wearing number 19, found the back of the net just over two minutes in, assisted by Aniston McCrann. The Stars then capitalized on a power play in the second period, with Annabelle McKenzie (44) converting a setup from Vallée to double the lead. Despite being outshot 16-10 in the middle frame, the Stars' defense and goaltender Anna Rioux held firm against a persistent Kingston attack.
The Ice Wolves pushed hard in the third period, but the Stars delivered the decisive blow at the 15:17 mark. Kessa Hogue (10) scored what would stand as the game-winning goal, with helpers from Kiana Fortin and Aniston McCrann, to give East Ottawa a 3-0 lead. Kingston finally broke through Rioux's shutout bid with just over two minutes remaining, as Kaylynn Fisher (94) scored to make it a 3-1 game. The Ice Wolves pulled their goalie, Claire Scott, for an extra attacker, but Vallée sealed the win for the Stars with an empty-net goal in the final minute, her second of the night. Kingston's Rio Pierre (9) managed a late consolation goal with 16 seconds left, assisted by Fisher, but it was too little, too late.
The game was a physical affair with seven minor penalties called, including infractions for head contact and body checking. Kingston's Claire Scott was a standout in a losing effort, turning aside 24 of 26 shots she faced for a .923 save percentage. For the Stars, the victory was a testament to timely scoring and defensive resilience, as they weathered a 37-26 shot disadvantage to claim the two points. Angélie Vallée led the way with a two-goal, one-assist performance, while Aniston McCrann chipped in with two key assists in the winning effort.
Mississauga Hurricanes #5875