Martlets, Pandas to meet in U Sports women’s hockey championship

NAPANEE, Ont. – Tricia Deguire stopped all 17 shots she faced as the No. 4 McGill Martlets upset the No. 1 UBC Thunderbirds 1-0 on Saturday to move on to the gold-medal game at the U Sports women’s hockey championship.

Gabrielle Davidson scored the lone goal of the game 17:31 into the third period off a pass from Melodie Daoust.

“Honestly it was a really intense game,” said McGill head coach Peter Smith. “I though that both teams played real well but we’re just happy to be back in that gold medal game.”

McGill will play the No. 6 Alberta Pandas for gold on Sunday.

Alberta knocked off the No. 7 Concordia Stingers 6-2 in Saturday’s other semi.

The game between McGill and UBC was fast-paced, but it was goaltending that stole the show early. In the first period, McGill had two great chances off the rush, but were unable to beat UBC’s Amelia Boughn, who finished with 29 saves.

McGill finally found the back of the net with just 2:29 left in the third period. After a UBC power play was cut short due to a penalty against Kelly Murray, Davidson found space in the slot and hammered in a one-timer shot.

“It’s tough, I’m still a little bit in shock,” said UBC coach Graham Thomas. “This is why you hate the game, this is why you love the game — I’m really proud of our group and all the firsts we’ve accomplished this season.”

In the other semifinal, Alex Poznikoff led the offence for Alberta with a hat trick. Kelsey Tangjerd, Amy Boucher and Sasha Lutz added the others goals. Lindsey Post only had to make 12 saves for the win.

Claudia Dubois and Marie-Joelle Allard replied for Concordia. Katherine Purchase stopped 17-of-21 shots in defeat.

UBC will play Concordia in the bronze-medal game, also on Sunday.