The Tsongas Center in Lowell, Massachusetts saw one of the best individual efforts of the season as Hilary Knight notched a hat trick for the Boston Fleet. Her three goal performance resulted in a 5-2 Fleet win over the New York Sirens.
The win moved Boston into second overall in the PWHL’s standings. For New York however, it was their ninth straight loss.
While the game had significant implications on the standings, it was Hilary Knight who stole the show.
“That was wild,” said Knight following the game. “I’m really fortunate to be able to get a hat-trick. It’s my first in the league, so it is really exciting. Just echoing before, every single team is really good, and to be able to close out the door and get three points tonight is big for us.”
Alina Muller scored a goal and added two assists, Susanna Tapani had a goal and an assist, and Shay Maloney three helpers for Boston in the win. Aerin Frankel had another spectacular night in net tying her season high total of 38 saves. It marks a season sweep for the Fleet over New York.
“I think Aerin Frankel has a lot to do with it – she’s been tremendous every time we’ve played her,” said New York head coach Greg Fargo. “Tonight, we had a lot of looks that we like, and we just had to find a way to convert. I think everybody in the room gets those chances and you want to be someone that pushes the team forward and you want to make a difference offensively. I think it feels like we’re just gripping our sticks a little tight at times too and its coming from a good place, but we have a lot of talent in the room, and I think we can certainly convert on those chances.”
New York’s goals were scored by Sarah Fillier and Elizabeth Giguere. Kayle Osborne allowed four goals on 19 shots.
Boston’s next game is their first at Agganis Arena in Boston. They play the Montreal Victoire at Agganis on March 8. New York has a week off between games heading back to the Prudential Center against Montreal on March 12.
