The Minnesota Frost staved off elimination in dramatic fashion on Friday night, defeating the Montreal Victoire 3-1 in Game 4 of their Professional Women's Hockey League playoff series. The victory forces a winner-take-all Game 5, shifting the momentum back to the Frost after Montreal had taken a 2-1 series lead.
Morin Shines with Two Goals
Defenseman Sidney Morin was the offensive catalyst for Minnesota, netting two crucial goals. Her first came in the opening period, giving the Frost an early lead. She struck again in the second frame, putting Minnesota ahead 2-0 and silencing the home crowd at the Xcel Energy Center. Morin's performance was a standout in a game where every shift carried immense pressure.
Pannek's Empty-Netter Seals the Win
With Montreal pressing for an equalizer in the final minutes, goaltender Nicole Hensley made several key saves to preserve the lead. The Victoire pulled their goalie for an extra attacker, but Kelly Pannek capitalized on the empty net with a precise shot to make it 3-1, securing the victory. Pannek's goal was her first of the playoffs and proved to be the dagger.
Series Now Tied 2-2
The Frost, who trailed the best-of-five series 2-1, showed resilience in front of their home fans. Montreal had dominated Game 3, but Minnesota responded with a disciplined defensive effort and timely scoring. Game 5 is scheduled to take place in Montreal, where the Victoire will look to regain home-ice advantage.
Friday's contest was physical from the outset, with both teams battling for every puck. The Frost penalty kill was perfect, shutting down all three Montreal power-play opportunities. Meanwhile, Minnesota's power play went 1-for-4, with Morin's second goal coming on the man advantage.
The winner of Game 5 will advance to the next round of the PWHL playoffs. Puck drop is set for Sunday evening at Place Bell in Laval, Quebec.
