Philips Stands Tall But Charge Offense Stalls in Season Debut
The Ottawa Charge began their Professional Women's Hockey League season with a disappointing 4-0 loss to the New York Sirens on Saturday night at a nearly packed TD Place arena. While goaltender Gwyneth Philips delivered an outstanding performance with 38 saves, the Charge offense failed to capitalize on their opportunities against Sirens netminder Kayle Osbourne.
Goaltending Duel Dominates Opening Periods
The game remained scoreless through the first two periods thanks to spectacular play from both goaltenders. Philips, who was named playoff MVP last season, was particularly brilliant in the opening frame, stopping all 13 shots she faced including at least four high-quality chances that might have beaten a lesser goaltender. Her most remarkable save came on a sprawling left skate stop against Maddi Wheeler on a breakaway just moments before the game's first goal.
At the other end, Ottawa product Kayle Osbourne was equally impressive, turning aside all 28 shots she faced to record the shutout. The Charge had their best opportunity to score when Rebecca Leslie generated a breakaway chance shortly after New York's first goal, but her shot went wide and a subsequent wraparound attempt also failed to find the net.
Girard's Hat Trick Seals Victory for Sirens
The deadlock was finally broken with 12:11 remaining in the third period when Sirens fourth-liner Taylor Girard scored the first PWHL goal of the new season. Girard would add two more goals to complete the hat trick, including a sharp-angle shot with Philips out of position on a broken play and another during a goalmouth scramble with 3:12 left in regulation.
The Sirens, who finished last in the league standings in 2024-25 but led all teams in shots per game, demonstrated their offensive firepower throughout the contest, ultimately outshooting the Charge 42-28. Maja Nylen Persson added an empty-net goal with just four seconds remaining to complete the 4-0 victory.
The Ottawa Charge will look to bounce back and score their first goal of the season when they host the Vancouver Goldeneyes at TD Place on Wednesday night.
