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In a dramatic game Saturday, the U.S. national women's hockey team, fueled by Gabbie Hughes' standout performance, clinched a 5-2 victory against Canada in the second game of the Rivalry Series.
The game's defining moment came in the third period when Abbey Murphy's shot deflected off Hughes, sealing the U.S. team's victory. Hughes, reflecting on her performance, acknowledged the significance of her goal in shifting the game's momentum. This victory marks the third consecutive win for the U.S. against Canada.
“The timing of the goal couldn’t have been better,” Hughes said, via the Associated Press. “We need that to really change the momentum back in our direction.”
U.S. coach John Wroblewski highlighted the significance of the team's defensive strategy and the vital role played by the youthful players – including Hughes' crucial goals – which led to the U.S.' second win of the series.
“A lot of things have to work out for us right now to get the results we are getting, and it really does start with a defensive mentality to withstand Canada’s attack,” Wroblewski said. “The skill level is sort of what I would call equal across the board. So the one thing we can get is having some of our youthful exuberance to take place.”
The match showcased an array of talent from both teams. For the U.S., players like Wisconsin's Britta Curl and Ohio State's Hannah Bilka scored pivotal goals, while veterans Alex Carpenter and Hilary Knight made significant contributions. Nicole Hensley, a two-time Olympian, showcased her skills with 23 saves. The American team in all features 10 college players.
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Canada, despite the loss, had notable performances from Laura Stacey and Jamie Lee Rattray, with Kristen Campbell making 19 saves. Coach Troy Ryan acknowledged the challenge of competing against the U.S.'s younger team and pointed out the need for his team to enhance their gameplay, especially in establishing a forecheck.
“They think they can pick up where they left off,” Ryan said. “We never really established a forecheck at all in these two games. And if they’re not able to establish a forecheck, you’re not making it difficult enough to play against.”
The Rivalry Series serves as a prelude to the world championships, scheduled to take place in Utica, New York in April 2024. In a historic moment for the series, Wisconsin sophomore Laila Edwards became the first Black player to participate in a game for the U.S. women's national hockey team.
The Canadian team also faced a setback with defender Erin Ambrose's injury. However, Ryan remains hopeful of her quick recovery, expressing optimism about the team's future performances in the ongoing series.
