Cougars Split Weekend Series in New York
In Game 2 of the weekend series, Cassidy Dobson played in net for the Cougars against Mya Castrillo for the Purple Eagles. In an even first period, the Cougars put 8 shots on net, but Castrillo was equal to the task of turning all of them aside. With time winding down in the first period and Niagara pressuring the Cougars deep in their zone, Raya Vandenbusse was able to capitalize on a rebound in the slot to break the deadlock and send the Purple Eagles into the first intermission with a 1-0 lead.
Amelia Williams would take an interference penalty early in the second period sending Niagara to the man advantage. With the powerplay, Niagara forward Abbey Pileggi would receive a stretch pass entering the Cougars zone before some fancy stick work in tight resulted in her going top shelf and extending the lead to two goals. Moments later, Cougars forward Annika Babineau would help redirect a Lilly Wallsmith point shot on net to cut the deficit to 1. The teams would skate the rest of the period scoreless setting up the deciding period.
A fast and furious third period saw both teams fighting for every free inch of ice. With 13 minutes remaining in the game, a harmless point shot redirected off a Cougars defenceman’s skate and squeaked by Cassidy Dobson restored the 2-goal lead for the Purple Eagles. The Cougars would continue to press for the equalizer, sending 15 shots on net in the frame but the Purple Eagles' goaltender would stay focused turning them all aside. Niagara would add an empty netter to secure the 4-1 victory, handing the Cougars their first loss of the season. Cassidy Dobson made 29 saves in the game.
The Sault College Cougars Women’s Hockey team will play their next games at home on November 30th and December 1st, 2024 versus the Niagara University Purple Eagles. Be sure to arrive early to the 7:00 PM puck drop on Nov. 30th for an exciting pregame banner ceremony honouring the 2023-24 National Champions!