Sirens' Struggles Continue: Takeaways from Boston Showdown
The New York Sirens' playoff hopes took a hit as they fell to the Boston Fleet in a shootout, extending their losing streak to three games (0-0-2-1) ahead of the PWHL's Olympic break. Despite a valiant effort, the Sirens couldn't secure a win, losing 4-3 in an eight-round shootout.
Boston's Alina Müller showcased her skills, scoring in rounds seven and eight, while Sirens goalie Kayle Osborne couldn't prevent the loss. Sirens defender Maja Nylen Persson kept New York in the game with a snipe in the seventh round, but Aerin Frankel made the crucial stop in the eighth round for Boston.
With 30 saves, Frankel improved to 9-2-2 this season, solidifying Boston's (8-2-2-2) lead in the PWHL standings with 30 points. The Sirens (7-0-3-6) managed to salvage a point thanks to Kristyna Kaltounkova's equalizer in the third period, securing their playoff spot with 24 points.
The game started with a penalty for Boston, as Liz Schepers and Megan Keller were both sent to the penalty box within the first minute. However, the Sirens' power play struggled, allowing Boston to kill the penalty and take the lead with Abby Newhook's goal.
New York's power play found its rhythm in the second period, thanks to Sarah Fillier's playmaking. She assisted on Kristin O'Neill's goal, tying the game 1-1. Despite a penalty shot opportunity for Boston, Osborne made the save, and Kaltounkova's goal gave New York a 2-1 lead.
Boston fought back in the third period, with Theresa Schafzahl and Schepers scoring a 2-on-1 goal. The game remained close, with Boston's power play striking again. Jamie Lee Rattray's goal gave Boston a 3-2 lead, and they held on to win the shootout.
Key takeaways include the Sirens' struggle to close out games, especially in the third period. Despite a young roster, the Sirens showed resilience, but they need to improve their ability to take charge in crucial moments.
The Sirens' power play and special teams played a significant role, but they couldn't overcome Boston's strong performance. With help on the way, including the return of Anne Cherkowski and Taylor Girard, the Sirens aim to find motivation from their recent losses and improve for the second half of the season.
