Boston Fleet Claims First Place in PWHL with Shootout Victory Over Ottawa Charge

Fleet Edges Charge in Tense Shootout

The Boston Fleet emerged victorious in a hard-fought contest against the Ottawa Charge, securing a 3-2 shootout win on Saturday, February 28, 2026. The pivotal victory, played before a sold-out crowd of 8,572 at TD Place in Ottawa, Ontario, propelled Boston into sole possession of first place in the Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL).

Hannah Brandt scored the game-winning goal in the shootout, marking Boston's first shootout triumph against Ottawa this season after two previous losses.

Regulation Drama and Key Performances

The game saw both teams exchange blows throughout regulation. Boston's Abby Newhook opened the scoring. However, the Ottawa Charge responded strongly in the third period, with Rebecca Leslie netting two goals, including a power-play marker, to give her team a 2-1 lead.

The Fleet, however, refused to yield. Alina Müller tied the game on a power play with 6:34 remaining in regulation, as her shot deflected off Ottawa's Kathryn Reilly.

Goaltenders played a crucial role in the tightly contested match. Boston's Aerin Frankel made 23 saves, while Ottawa's Gwyneth Phillips stopped 21 shots.

Standings Impact and Olympic Talent

With this win, the Boston Fleet's record improved to 8-3-2-2 (Wins-OT Wins-OT Losses-Losses), placing them two points ahead of the Montreal Victoire in the league standings. The Ottawa Charge currently sits in fifth place with a record of 4-5-1-7.

The game also showcased a significant amount of international talent, featuring 15 Olympians from the upcoming Milan Cortina Games.

Upcoming Schedule

Looking ahead, the Ottawa Charge will host the Seattle Torrent on Wednesday, March 4, while the Boston Fleet will travel to face the New York Sirens on Thursday, March 5.