ST. PAUL, Minn. — In a thrilling matchup on Thursday night, the Minnesota Frost secured a decisive 5-2 victory over the Ottawa Charge with standout performances from Kelly Pannek and Grace Zumwinkle, who each contributed two goals to the win.

Minnesota, boasting a record of 3 wins, 0 losses, 1 overtime loss, and 0 shootout losses, showcased their offensive prowess for the second consecutive game. Previously, the team had seen Britta Curl-Salemme and Michela Cava each score twice during a 6-3 triumph against Toronto on December 7.

On the other hand, the Ottawa Charge, now with a record of 1 win, 0 losses, 1 overtime loss, and 3 shootout losses, are currently on a three-game losing streak.

The game kicked off with an exciting goal from Pannek, who tied the score at 1-1 in the first period. Demonstrating skill, she maneuvered behind the net and lifted a shot over the shoulder of Ottawa’s goaltender, Gwyneth Philips. Pannek struck again in the second period, scoring on a power play by firing a shot past Philips after a strong play through the zone.

Minnesota further extended their lead with another quick goal just 18 seconds into a power play opportunity. Zumwinkle launched a powerful shot from the point, bringing the score to 3-1 with just under three minutes remaining in the second period. Zumwinkle capped her night with an empty-net goal in the final moments of the game, solidifying the Frost’s victory with a score of 5-2.

Rookie Claire Thompson also made an impact, scoring her first-ever PWHL goal with just under five minutes to play in the third period, which gave Minnesota a comfortable two-goal cushion. Even as Ottawa pulled their goalie in a last-ditch effort with over three minutes left, Pannek came within inches of scoring her third goal, hitting the post instead.

Thompson’s impressive performance didn’t go unnoticed, as she concluded the night with a total of four points.

For Ottawa, Anna Meixner managed to find the back of the net halfway through the first period, deflecting Jincy Roese’s shot for her inaugural PWHL goal. Teammate Shiann Darkangelo contributed by providing a crucial screen in front of goaltender Maddie Rooney.

Tereza Vanišová kept the game competitive for Ottawa by narrowing the margin to 3-2 early in the third period, but it ultimately wasn’t enough to secure a win.