Huskies defeat Panthers 4-2

CHARLOTTETOWN, PEI - On a day when UPEI celebrated its senior hockey players, the Saint Mary's Huskies spoiled the party, as they defeated the Panthers 4-2.

The Huskies boasted a balanced attack with four players—Ellen Laurence, Ashley Penney, Mary McDonald, Siobhan Birch—finding the back of the net.

The Panthers looked strong early in the game, but the Huskies wore their opponent down before capitalizing on their chances.

At 14:10, Kara MacLean wrapped around the net and centred a pass to Laurence, who fired it by Camille Scherger for the opening goal.

Saint Mary's added to their lead with just 13 seconds to spare in the first period, as Penney jabbed home the rebound off Alexa McMillan's shot from the point.

The Panthers got one back midway through the second period when Taylor Gillis picked off a pass attempt and went in alone before sliding a backhand shot by goaltender Ashley Imlach for the shorthanded marker. Imlach recorded just 12 saves, as the defence in front of her played strong and disciplined throughout the contest.

The Huskies restored their two-goal advantage on an ensuing power play just a minute and a half later when McDonald tipped in Caleigh Meraw's shot from the point to make 3-1.

Looking to get back in the game early in the third, UPEI's Avery Penner found Kelly Clements in the neutral zone where she skated by a few defenders and slipped a backhand by Imlach at 2:37.

Each time the Panthers got within a goal, Saint Mary's countered quickly. This time it took just 44 seconds, as Birch beat Scherger, all but sealing the 4-2 victory.

Huskies forward Siobhan Birch was named Subway Player of the Game with one goal and one assist.

With the win, the Huskies improve to 16-3-1 on the season. They will finish off the regular season tomorrow, as they head to Fredericton to take on the UNB REDS, in a game that will decide first place in the AUS Standings. Puck drops at 2 p.m.

The Panthers hit the road to take on the St. Thomas Tommies in the final regular season game. Puck drops at 2 p.m.

Recap by Thomas Becker / UPEI Athletics