The Ottawa Charge kept their championship hopes alive with a crucial 2-1 victory over the Montreal Victoire in Game 4 of the Walter Cup final at the Canadian Tire Centre on Wednesday evening. The win evened the best-of-five series at 2-2, forcing a decisive Game 5 in Laval on Saturday afternoon.
Charge Rally After Two Overtime Losses
After dropping the first two games of the Professional Women's Hockey League championship series in overtime on the road, the Charge returned home with renewed determination. They secured a thrilling 2-1 win in a must-win Game 3 on Monday night, setting the stage for Wednesday's pivotal matchup.
Ottawa Citizen photographer Tony Caldwell captured the electric atmosphere as Charge players arrived at the arena, greeted by enthusiastic fans. Players including Gabbie Hughes, Fanuza Kadirova, Peyton Hemp, and Alexa Vasko high-fived supporters and signed autographs before puck drop at 7 p.m.
Fan Support Fuels Charge
The home crowd provided a significant boost for Ottawa, which looked to capitalize on momentum after their Game 3 victory. The Charge players were visibly energized by the support as they entered the arena, with fans lining the entrance to cheer on their favorites.
Kadirova and Katerina Mrázová were among those greeted warmly, while Hughes took time to sign autographs for young fans. The scene underscored the growing passion for women's hockey in Ottawa.
Series Now Heads to Laval
With the series tied, all attention turns to Game 5 at Place Bell in Laval, Quebec. The Charge will need to win on the road to claim the Walter Cup, while the Victoire aim to close out the championship in front of their home fans.
The winner of Saturday's game will be crowned the PWHL champion, capping a thrilling postseason that has showcased the league's competitive spirit and skill.
