The Boston Fleet triumphed over the New York Sirens with a 5-2 victory on Wednesday night, showcasing an impressive performance by Hilary Knight, who scored her first career hat trick. In addition to Knight’s phenomenal game, Boston’s goalkeeper Aerin Frankel was pivotal, making 38 saves, cementing the Fleet’s season sweep against the Sirens.
Knight, capping her stellar night by securing an empty-net goal in the final 10 seconds, also provided an assist, helping Boston advance to second place in the standings, surpassing Toronto. This victory marks Boston’s seventh of the season, with an impressive six victories against New York, two of which were settled in shootouts. Throughout these matchups, Knight has been outstanding, contributing five goals and seven assists to her team’s efforts. Alina Muller and Susanna Tapani were also crucial to the victory, with Muller adding a goal and two assists and Tapani scoring her ninth goal of the season during the third period.
Aerin Frankel, maintaining her streak in the net for Boston’s wins over New York, matched her season-high for saves. Despite being outshot 32-11 by New York in the initial two periods, the Fleet managed to outshoot the Sirens 9-8 in the final period, securing their commanding position.
The Sirens, now languishing in last place, continue their winless streak, extending to nine games. Although Elizabeth Giguere initiated the scoring for New York with a game-opening goal, representing only their second instance of scoring first during this skid, Muller quickly equalized with her sixth goal in the first period. Knight further extended Boston’s lead to 3-1 with a power play and a breakaway goal. Despite a late effort by New York’s rookie Sarah Fillier, who scored her eighth goal on a power play to close the gap to 3-2, Boston held firm. Fillier’s performance moves her into a tie for the league lead with 22 points, closely followed by Knight’s own impressive tally of 21 points, including 11 goals.
