The Ottawa Charge delivered a heart-stopping performance on home ice, thrilling a record crowd with a dramatic 3–2 win over the Montréal Victoire. With just 13 seconds left on the clock, Ashton Bell scored a stunning jailbreak goal, propelling Ottawa closer to a coveted playoff spot and showcasing the city’s growing passion for professional women’s hockey.

Historic Night at TD Place

Fans packed TD Place, creating an electric atmosphere as 8,576 supporters — a team record — watched Ottawa chase their third consecutive victory. From the first puck drop, the energy was unmistakable. The stage was set for something special in Canada’s capital.

Even before the action began, defender and assistant captain Jincy Roese added an emotional touch. She surprised teammates and the crowd by delivering the national anthem in both English and French, merging her love for hockey and music in front of the home fans.

Bell’s Brilliance Secures the Win

Ashton Bell was the undisputed star of the evening. She scored twice, opening Ottawa’s account midway through the first period. Captain Brianne Jenner followed up with another goal, granting the Charge a promising 2–0 lead. However, Montréal responded with a late goal in the first and another in the third period, tying the game and setting the stage for a nerve-wracking finish.

With the tension building and overtime looming, Bell delivered. Her long-range shot during a shorthanded situation deflected off a Montreal skater and found the net, sending the Ottawa faithful into celebration mode. This heroic effort marked not only her first career game-winning goal but also pushed the Charge to the cusp of playoff hockey. Read how Bell’s late jailbreak goal sealed the win for Ottawa.

Team Resilience and Key Performers

Ottawa’s growth was evident in their response to adversity. Earlier in the season, surrendering a lead might have rattled the team. This time, the Charge stayed focused. "We just keep working. The variables weren’t aligned to be part of your ideal finish with us on the penalty kill, but we don’t waver. It’s nice to find a way — and we found a way," said head coach Carla MacLeod.

Goalie Gwyneth Philips was steady in net, stopping 25 of 27 shots. Key contributions from Shiann Darkangelo, who added two assists, and Brianne Jenner, who scored her sixth goal of the season, kept Ottawa’s offense clicking. This collective effort underlines why the Charge remain strong playoff contenders. Learn more about Ottawa’s playoff pursuit and team growth.

What’s Next for Ottawa

With this victory, Ottawa cemented their spot in the top tier of league standings. They now sit just behind Boston, holding important tiebreakers against both Boston and Minnesota — teams they’ll likely battle down the stretch. Next, Ottawa faces Minnesota in their final regular season home game, where another electric crowd could help push the Charge into the playoffs.

Final Thoughts

Ottawa’s thrilling win over Montreal was more than just another notch in the win column. It highlighted the Charge’s determination, resilience, and the growing support for professional women’s hockey in the city. As the playoff race intensifies, the Charge have momentum, belief, and the backing of a record-setting fanbase. To stay updated on Ottawa Charge’s playoff journey and catch the latest highlights, follow the league’s official news page and don’t miss the upcoming showdown at TD Place.