MacNeil’s last-minute heroics lift Panthers over Aigles Bleues

By Thomas Becker

Orianna MacNeil played the hero Wednesday night, scoring a last-minute goal to secure a thrilling 3-2 victory for the UPEI Panthers over the Université de Moncton Aigles Bleues.

With 59 seconds remaining and the Panthers on a power play, head coach Sean Fisher called a timeout to strategize. And it worked to perfection. 

Twelve seconds later, MacNeil found the back of the net for the game-winner. Positioned at the side of the net, Sophie Bujold surveyed her options before feeding McKinley Nelson, whose shot ricocheted off skates in front. The loose puck slid to MacNeil, who buried a quick shot off the crossbar and in. 

"I got a lucky bounce. It came right to me, and I couldn't really miss it," MacNeil said. "Two points, especially in regulation, is big. It gives us a boost and the momentum we need going into Friday."

Kierra St. Peter and Avery Penner also scored for UPEI, while Nelson picked up two assists, moving her to second place in the league's scoring race. 

Despite a slow start, the Panthers found a way to win, thanks in large part to goaltender Sarah Forsythe, who was rock-solid between the pipes. Forsythe stopped all 13 shots she faced in the first period, keeping her team in the game while Moncton dictated the early action. She finished with 30 saves. 

Even while being outplayed, UPEI struck first. At 17:25 of the opening frame, Sadie Brown sent a soft shot on net that bounced around in front before St. Peter poked it past Moncton netminder Annick Boudreau for a 1-0 lead. 

The Panthers came out energized after the intermission but suffered a tough break. Moncton equalized at 9:53 on a power play when Emilie Comeau's shot hit the end boards, bounced off Forsythe's skate, and trickled in.

Moncton then took a 2-1 lead early in the third period on a goal from Maritza Labrie at 6:51, putting the Panthers on their heels. However, UPEI showed their resilience and responded just three minutes later on a power play. MacNeil's initial shot caromed off the end boards, creating a scramble in front that Penner capitalized on, tying the game at two apiece.

With momentum on their side, MacNeil's last-minute heroics sealed the victory, capping off an exciting comeback for the Panthers.

"The group has done a great job sticking together, supporting and communicating well with each other. I've been impressed with their poise and resilience these last few weeks," said Fisher.

The Panthers now shift their focus to the St. FX X-Women, who they'll host Friday night.

Photo Credit: Janessa Vanden Broek