The United States women’s hockey team achieved a resounding 10-4 victory over Canada in the third game of the Rivalry Series on March 6, 2024, in Edmonton, Alberta. After conceding a goal just 48 seconds into the match, the U.S. responded with ten goals, showcasing their offensive prowess and solidifying their dominance in the series.
Kelly Pannek and Abbey Murphy each netted two goals, while Kendall Coyne Schofield contributed a goal and two assists. Additional goals came from Tessa Janecke, Jesse Compher, Britta Curl-Salemme, Alex Carpenter, and Kirsten Simms. The Americans have now won all three matches in the four-game series, with the final game set for March 9 in Edmonton, just before the upcoming Olympic Games.
Despite a strong start from Canada, with Sarah Fillier scoring early, the U.S. quickly took control, scoring five consecutive goals after Fillier’s opening strike. They maintained momentum, scoring four more unanswered goals in the final period.
Canada’s performance included notable contributions from Sophie Jaques, who scored twice, and Fillier, who added a goal and an assist. This marked a historic defeat for Canada, as it was the first time they had conceded ten goals in a single game to the U.S., surpassing their previous record of nine goals allowed in 2012.
After allowing five goals on 17 shots, Canadian goalie Ann-Renée Desbiens was replaced by Emerance Maschmeyer midway through the second period. Maschmeyer managed to stop 7 of the 12 shots she faced, but the damage had already been done.
Canada attempted to rally in the second period, scoring three goals, including a notable effort from Jaques that survived a video review for goaltender interference. Following this, Canada had a power-play opportunity but could not capitalize, with Jaques hitting the post. The U.S. swiftly regained their scoring rhythm, leading to four more goals, sealing the decisive victory.
The U.S. women’s team, reigning world champions, previously defeated Canada 4-1 in Cleveland and 6-1 in Buffalo during this series. The Rivalry Series has traditionally included five to seven matches, but the current schedule has been shortened due to the upcoming Olympic Games and the Professional Women’s Hockey League commitments.
As the teams prepare for the final encounter of the series, all eyes will be on the U.S. to see if they can complete a sweep against their long-time rivals, Canada.
