In front of 5,968 fans at Boston’s Agganis Arena, the Montreal Victoire spoiled the Boston Fleet’s debut within the City of Boston with a 3-2 overtime decision.
Former Boston University star Marie-Philip Poulin scored the opening goal of the game in her former university arena to give Montreal a lead.
“I mean, it was very special to come back to Boston, and even more to play here at Agganis Arena,” said Poulin of playing at her former University arena. “I’ll say, it brought back great memories. It was four years of my life that were some of the best. So, it was really special, and I’m really happy with the win.”
Catherine Dubois doubled Montreal’s lead in the opening portion of the first period, but Boston’s Jamie Lee Rattray got the home team on the board before the first frame was done. In the second period, Amanda Pelkey pushed home a loose puck off a Lexie Adzija shot to tie the game at 2-2, which is how the contest would sit at the end of regulation.
In overtime, after a Boston opportunity, Laura Stacey sent Cayla Barnes up ice on a stretch pass. Barnes scored on a backhand to lift Montreal to the win extending their hold on first overall in the PWHL.
“Another overtime game versus Montréal, I feel like it’s something we like to do,” said Boston head coach Courtney Kessel. “I think our last 40 was much better than our first 20, so we have to find a way to come out and make an impact in the first 20.”
Boston earning a point moved them into a tie for second overall with the Toronto Sceptres.
Montreal plays March 12 in New York. Boston is now off for a week until March 15.
