In a highly anticipated rematch against their arch-rival Canadians, the American women’s ball hockey team brought intense energy and determination at 8 AM. The match carried the theme of revenge after a hard-fought 2-0 loss earlier in the tournament.
Brooke Wolejko started strong in goal, making numerous crucial saves, especially during several Canadian power plays. The game remained tight until late in the second period when captain Colleen Murphy, who has been playing through a broken kneecap, scored a power play goal. Typically a top-end center, Murphy has transitioned to a defensive role due to her injury.
Early in the third period, the Canadians managed to tie the game. However, the American defense held firm, maintaining the 1-1 score through the end of regulation.
In overtime, the Canadians came out aggressively, creating multiple scoring opportunities. Nevertheless, Wolejko demonstrated why she is regarded as one of the top goalies in the world by stopping all their chances.
The turning point came when a well-executed breakout play led to Maddy Evangelous taking a shot that deflected off a defender’s stick onto the goalie’s shoulder pads. The ball then rolled over and was knocked in by Katherine “The Better” Murphy, securing the overtime win for the Americans.
With this victory, the American women’s ball hockey team has the opportunity to win their first-ever gold medal in USA ball hockey history, facing Czechia in the final tomorrow.
