The Minnesota Frost welcomed the New York Sirens to the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul on Saturday and were treated to an uncharacteristic blowout loss of 5-0.
Although short-handed and missing some key players, the Frost gave up a goal within the first minute and a half on the Sirens’ first shot. Rookie and emergency call-up goalie Lucy Morgan was overwhelmed by New York’s attack. Unfortunately, the early goal set the tone for the rest of the game.
Minnesota had a difficult time establishing any offense, giving up the puck many times and not being able to corral the New York attack. The Frost had their opportunities, particularly in the first period, but during the rest of the game, they were simply unable to find a scoring rhythm. New York had something of an easy time capitalizing on Frost’s inefficiency and was able to mostly do whatever they wanted.
New York takes this one, 5-0.
— Minnesota Frost (@PWHL_Minnesota) January 4, 2025
Five players scored for New York: Jessie Eldridge, Sarah Fillier, Alex Carpenter, Chloe Aurard, and Abby Roque.
Minnesota Could Be Without Key Players For Some Time
Minnesota, who still leads the league, could remain short-handed for a while. Grace Zumwinkle is dealing with a shoulder injury and a virus that seems to be going around the team. Starting goalkeeper Nicole Hensley is injured, and Maddie Rooney, who is dealing with an illness and was out, was called in as an emergency backup for Morgan.
So far, New York has beaten Minnesota in St. Paul, and the Frost has beaten the Sirens in New York. They’ll get another chance on Jan. 15 to even the score in New York, but first, they will face Boston on January 8 and Montréal on Jan. 12 at home. The Sirens begin a three-game home series on Jan. 7, facing Ottawa, on Jan. 12, against Toronto, and the Frost on Jan. 15.
As a side note, this was my first PWHL game. Regardless of the score, it was an entertaining game, with very dedicated fans and a great atmosphere. I enjoyed the pace of the game and the determination with which these players approached the game. Needless to say, it won’t be my last PWHL game.
And that, my friends, as they say, is that.’ — Martin Ruben.
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