Sceptres and Charge Clash for Crucial PWHL Playoff Spot
A single afternoon game in Toronto will carry major playoff consequences for both clubs. The contest starts at 2 p.m. ET Saturday at Coca-Cola Coliseum. CBC TV and CBC Gem will air the matchup.
Playoff implications
Toronto can earn a three-point cushion for the fourth and final playoff spot with a regulation win. Ottawa can leapfrog the Sceptres with a regulation or overtime victory. Sixth-place New York sits three points behind Toronto and two behind Ottawa.
Toronto’s turnaround
The Sceptres began the season badly before the Olympic break. They lost seven of eight games, including three straight.
The club adopted a “back-14” mindset for the final 14 games. Key players returned from the Olympics and the team found new momentum.
Leaders and recent form
Captain Blayre Turnbull has been central to Toronto’s push. She has eight points since the Olympic break and excels on the penalty kill and in the faceoff circle.
Alternate captain Renata Fast expects a physical game. Toronto’s coach Troy Ryan praised Turnbull’s all-around impact after the April 1 meeting with Ottawa.
Last meeting
On April 1 in Calgary, the Sceptres beat the Charge 2-1. Toronto killed four Ottawa power plays in that game. Turnbull assisted on both goals.
Ottawa’s situation
Interim head coach Haley Irwin has urged consistency after a recent loss to Seattle. The Charge need a win to keep their postseason hopes alive.
Offensive leaders and depth
Brianne Jenner and Rebecca Leslie have paced Ottawa’s attack all season. Jenner, however, has been held off the scoresheet for the last four games.
Rookies Fanuza Kadirova and Sarah Wozniewicz have chipped in useful depth scoring. Gwyneth Philips has carried a heavy workload in goal.
Wednesday’s setback
The Charge lost to the Seattle Torrent in a late finish. Natalie Snodgrass scored with 1:21 remaining. Seattle added an empty-net goal to win 5-3.
Seattle entered that game facing elimination. Ottawa squandered a chance to move past Toronto earlier in the week.
Team mindset and urgency
Forward Gabbie Hughes emphasized unity and commitment after the loss. Players know this stretch is the last chance for this roster.
With expansion and free agency looming, renewal is uncertain. Renata Fast said that uncertainty creates extra urgency for a deep playoff run.
This Battle of Ontario promises a hard-fought clash. Both clubs know what is at stake in the race for a PWHL playoff spot. Filmogaz.com will follow the outcome and its implications for the final weekend of the season.
