Women’s Hockey: U.S. defeats Canada 2-1 in shootout in Halifax

The United States defeated Canada 2-1 in a shootout in the fourth game of their women’s hockey Rivalry Series in Halifax.

Kelly Pannek had the shootout winner for the Americans, who tied the series at two games a piece.

American captain Hilary Knight opened the scoring in the first period.

It stayed 1-0 U.S. until 2:20 remaining in the third, when Stellarton’s Blayre Turnbull shot the puck through goaltender Gwyneth Philips to tie it for Canada.

Turnbull says it felt great to be back home.

“I think from the moment we stepped off the bus, they had a bunch of little girls cheering for us, and then during warm-up as well and throughout the game. Everyone was really loud and into it,” said Turnbull, who had 75 family members in attendance.

When the teams took to the ice to start the game, it was a deafening roar from the near sold-out crowd.

Head Coach for Canada Troy Ryan says it was a great game.

“Halifax is a great hockey city for events like this. It was nice to see the city get behind this, we love playing here,” said Ryan.

No boos’ for American anthem

Both national anthems were played, fans cheered after the ‘Star-Spangled Banner,’ unlike in recent NHL games in Canada where boos could be heard.

That’s due to high tensions between the two nations as the threat of a trade war continues.

Team USA Head Coach John Wrobleski says he was a bit worried at first.

“I thank Hockey Canada, Nova Scotians and more for allowing the athletes to go out and take part in this amazing event.” said Wrobleski.

Coach Ryan called it a classy move from his fellow Maritimers.

Ryan was honoured for reaching 25 wins at the World Championships as Head Coach of Team Canada before the game.

Fans also cheered loudly for Turnbull and assistant coach Kori Cheverie of New Glasgow.

Turnbull was named player of the game for Canada, while Philips took it for the Americans.

The teams will play the final game of the series in Summerside, PEI on Saturday.