Panthers push No. 5 UNB to the brink in thrilling 3-2 shootout battle

By Thomas Becker

The UPEI Panthers delivered a gutsy performance against the U SPORTS fifth-ranked UNB Reds Saturday night, taking them to the limit in a thrilling 3-2 shootout loss.

Despite the result, the Panthers (9-7-4) earned a critical point in the standings and now sit one point ahead of the Saint Mary's Huskies for the final playoff spot, setting the stage for a critical matchup Sunday afternoon.

Panthers rookie Jessica Mercer scored her first Atlantic University Sport (AUS) goal, while Chloe McCabe continued her hot streak with her fourth goal in five games. Despite the UPEI's efforts, UNB's Katelyn Scott proved to be the difference-maker, scoring twice in regulation and netting the decisive shootout goal. 

The Panthers struck first at 9:37 of the opening period with a beautifully executed play. McCabe charged up the left wing, cut to the middle, and delivered a perfect pass to Mercer at the point. Mercer's shot weaved through a maze of bodies and slipped past UNB (16-4-1) goaltender Hannah LeClair. However, Scott responded on a power play at 15:08 to even the score. 

The battle remained tightly contested in the second period until Scott struck again at 8:11. Picking up the puck in the neutral zone, she weaved through a defender and beat UPEI netminder Erin Cabaday with a quick forehand to give the Reds a 2-1 lead. 

Refusing to back down, the Panthers pushed back in the third period. With just over eight minutes remaining, McCabe showcased her playmaking skills, driving down the right side before cutting toward the net and slipping a shot past LeClair to tie the game at 2-2.

UNB controlled much of the overtime period, but the UPEI showed resilience, holding off the Reds to force a shootout. In the one-on-one contest, UNB's Olivia Eustace and Scott found the back of the net, while UPEI was unable to respond, sealing the win for the Reds.

Despite the loss, the Panthers' ability to secure a point against a top-five opponent was critical. And now they wait for the Huskies a Sunday afternoon showdown against the Huskies with playoff implications on the line.

Photo Credit: Janessa Vanden Broek