Boston Takes PWHL Playoff Lead Against Ottawa
Boston Fleet warmups. Photo Credit: Jenn G.
Written By Gina Anton
LOWELL, Mass. — The Boston Fleet defeated the Ottawa Charge, 2-1, in the opening game of the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) Walter Cup semifinals on April 30, giving the Fleet an early edge in the best-of-five series.
The first semifinal matchup took place at Tsongas Center in Lowell, Massachusetts, as Boston and Ottawa began their pursuit of the Walter Cup.
Ottawa struck first in the opening period, when alternate captain and defenseman Jocelyne Larocque scored the Charge’s lone goal. The appearance marks Larocque’s second playoff season with Ottawa since her departure from PWHL Toronto.
Boston responded late in the second period. Alternate captain Alina Müller tied the game with two minutes remaining, and just one minute later, right winger Jamie Lee Rattray netted the go-ahead goal. The series marks the second playoff appearance with Boston for both players.
Boston head coach Kris Sparre addressed his team’s performance following Thursday night’s game.
“I like that we stuck with it. We had some good opportunities early in the game that didn't go for us, but that's why we talk a lot during the season about big moments and staying composed. The higher the stakes, we're going to need that. [Müller] gets us a nice goal and everybody settles in on the bench and we went from there,” said Sparre.
The stakes are high as the Victoire, Fleet and Charge look to end the Frost’s two-time Walter Cup championship streak. Both Boston and Ottawa have previously finished as runners-up, adding urgency to their postseason push.
The PWHL has completed just two full seasons since its establishment in August 2023. The Walter Cup serves as the league’s championship trophy, created to recognize excellence in women’s professional hockey.
The playoffs follow a bracket-style format, with teams competing in best-of-five series across two rounds: the semifinals and the finals.
The remaining semifinal games between the Fleet and the Charge will be played at Tsongas Center in Lowell and Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, which is also home to the NHL’s Ottawa Senators.
Larocque spoke about Ottawa’s mindset heading into the next game.
“I think some of us were maybe gripping our stick a little tight. I mean, it was the first playoff game for a lot of players. So, I think we need to take a deep breath and believe in ourselves. We have so much love for each other. There is so much belief, but I think getting that first game behind us and getting our feet wet will really help us. We'll definitely have a little more energy on Saturday.”
