The Burlington Barracudas set the tone early and never looked back, cruising to a decisive 5-1 victory over the East Ottawa Stars. The home team's offense clicked from the opening puck drop, capitalizing on their first power play opportunity just minutes into the game. Madeline Delahunt, wearing #74, opened the scoring with a power-play marker at 14:18 of the first, assisted by Lauren Kruzel and Gabrielle Catalano. The Barracudas kept their foot on the gas, with Elleh Frigui (#97) doubling the lead later in the period before Kruzel (#27) herself found the back of the net with just 38 seconds left in the frame, a goal that would stand as the game-winner. Burlington's relentless first-period pressure, which saw them outshoot the Stars 14-7, effectively put the game out of reach early.
Despite a more even shot count in the latter two periods, the Barracudas continued to capitalize on their chances. Hayley Thompson (#7) added another power-play goal in the second period, assisted by the Tiller sisters, Caileigh and Chelsea. Gulianna Kalpakis (#10) extended the lead to 5-0 in the third, with Addison Butler and Caileigh Tiller picking up the helpers. The Stars finally broke through goaltender Riley Manna's shutout bid late in the third when Aniston McCrann (#9) scored an unassisted goal at 6:32. Manna was a wall in net for Burlington, turning aside 26 of 27 shots to secure the win.
The game was not without its physical edge, as both teams combined for nine minor penalties. The Stars found themselves in penalty trouble throughout, taking six infractions that the Barracudas' potent power play exploited for two crucial goals. Burlington's Chelsea Tiller (#2) was involved in the rough stuff, taking two roughing minors. For East Ottawa, discipline became an issue with penalties for head contact and hooking hampering any chance of a sustained comeback. In the end, the Barracudas' explosive start and efficient special teams proved too much for the Stars to overcome.
Mississauga Hurricanes #5875