Back to back: Frost beat Charge in overtime to successfully defend Walter Cup crown

The Minnesota Frost have once again emerged as champions of the PWHL, securing their second consecutive Walter Cup title. Liz Schepers’ overtime goal in Game 4 sealed the deal for the Frost, as they defeated the Ottawa Charge with a final score of 2-1. This victory marks a historic moment for the team, as they clinched the championship in a thrilling best-of-five series that saw each game ending with a score of 2-1.

The Ilana Kloss Playoff MVP award was rightfully presented to Charge goaltender Gwyneth Philips, who put up a stellar performance throughout the series. Game 3 of the finals went into triple overtime, setting a new record for the longest game in PWHL Finals history. The intense competition and nail-biting moments kept fans on the edge of their seats until the very end.

In a dramatic turn of events, Katy Knoll assisted Schepers in scoring the game-winning goal, securing back-to-back Walter Cup titles for the Frost. Despite a valiant effort from the Charge, goaltender Maddie Rooney stood strong with 33 saves to help lead her team to victory.

The game saw a back-and-forth battle between the two teams, with Kelly Pannek and Tereza Vanisova making notable contributions on the scoresheet. Pannek’s goal marked the first time the Charge trailed in regulation during the finals, showcasing the Frost’s dominance on the ice. Vanisova, who led Ottawa with 15 goals in the postseason, also made her presence known with a crucial point in the third period.

Philips, the standout rookie goaltender for the Charge, put up an impressive performance with 36 saves in the final game. Her resilience and skill in the net were instrumental in keeping her team in the game until the very end. Both teams had their fair share of opportunities, with near misses and close calls adding to the excitement of the game.

The Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, Minn., was packed with 11,024 fans who witnessed the thrilling conclusion of the series. The atmosphere was electric as the Frost celebrated their hard-earned victory and lifted the Walter Cup once again. The legacy of the Minnesota Frost continues to grow as they solidify their status as powerhouse champions in the PWHL.