Drama-Filled Finish to Game 4: PWHL Boston’s Unbelievable Comeback

The PWHL championship scene was set to be a thrilling conclusion to Game 4, but what transpired was nothing short of astonishing. With 2:34 left in double overtime, PWHL Minnesota forward Sophie Jaques thought she had sealed the deal, putting the puck into the back of the net. The Minnesota players erupted in celebration, tossing their helmets and sticks into the air, anticipating the inaugural Walter Cup title.

Chaos on the ice

However, the jubilation was short-lived. The goal was overturned on video review due to goalie interference by Taylor Heise, and Boston was given new life. The dramatic swing in momentum was palpable, and Boston forward Alina Muller capitalized on the opportunity, scoring just 1:10 later to force a winner-take-all Game 5.

“I didn’t think it was over,” Boston head coach Courtney Kessel said. “I thought it was goalie interference. But you never know, right? So, you challenge and kind of wait.”

Muller’s game-winning goal

Boston goalie Aerin Frankel, who stopped all 33 shots she faced, was instrumental in keeping her team’s playoff hopes alive. “Obviously being in the net, I didn’t really know what happened other than the fact that I was pushed, but I didn’t know who pushed me into the net,” Frankel said. “It kind of all just happened really fast. But then after seeing the replay, I was confident that they would maybe overturn it.”

The momentum shift was immense, and Boston took advantage of the new-found life. Minnesota, on the other hand, was left reeling from the overturned goal. “It’s obviously deflating when you are playing a game this long and you think you score a goal and then you’re celebrating on the ice and it gets called back,” Frankel said.

Frankel’s incredible postseason performance

The game-winning goal was a testament to Boston’s resilience and determination. Muller took a pass from Theresa Schafzahl and beat goalie Nicole Hensley’s top self to officially end the game with 1:24 left in double overtime.

“I think the advantage was on our side just from a mental side,” Muller said. “… It’s pretty tough if you’re on the other side.”

Boston’s thrilling victory

The stage is now set for a thrilling Game 5, with the inaugural Walter Cup title on the line. Will Boston continue their momentum, or will Minnesota bounce back from the heartbreaking loss? One thing is certain – this series has been an unforgettable ride.