Ottawa Charge came from behind to beat Montréal Victoire 2-1 in overtime at Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg on Sunday. The extra-time victory gave Ottawa two points in a game that could have significant playoff implications.
Montréal took a 1-0 lead and looked comfortable for stretches. The Victoire have been one of the best defensive teams in the league this season, allowing opponents few quality chances. Ann-Renee Desbiens entered the game with a .932 save percentage and a 15-2 record.
Ottawa found a way to equalize in regulation and then finished the job in overtime. The Charge have shown a knack for close games this season. Brianne Jenner leads the team with 20 points in 28 games. Rebecca Leslie has been a consistent scorer with 12 goals in 23 games.
The Charge forward group runs deep. Emily Clark and Michela Cava each have 19 points on the season. Katerina Mrazova has 18 points in 23 games, and Gabbie Hughes has added 16 points in 29 appearances.
Gwyneth Philips earned the win in net for Ottawa. She holds a .924 save percentage and a 2.35 goals-against average through 21 starts. Her steadiness has been one of the primary reasons Ottawa sits fourth with 33 points.
Montréal remains in strong position at 46 points in second place despite the overtime loss, which still earned them one point. Marie-Philip Poulin leads the Victoire with 26 points, including 19 goals.
The Charge picked up a valuable two points and kept pace in the crowded middle of the standings. Every overtime win matters when the margin between fourth and seventh is just six points.
Ottawa returns home to Canadian Tire Centre. Montréal heads back to Place Bell.