Panthers even series and force deciding Game 5

CHARLOTTETOWN, PEI - The UPEI Panthers forced Game 5 with a huge 3-1 home win over the visiting STFX X-Women on Monday night. Boston Pizza Player of the Game Ashley McCutchen notched a pair of goals for the home side, who now head to Antigonish for the fifth and deciding game of the AUS semi-final series on Thursday, March 5, at 7 p.m.  

The first period saw both teams enjoy multiple powerplays but STFX was first to capitalize, with Tea Pearce fired a high wristshot just under the bar after a pass from Terry Mozes and Lainey Joyce.   

The Panthers responded in kind early in the second period, as McCutchen put one in low from in close with Brooke Henderson and Orianna Macneil assisting. Panther defender Rachel Richards made it 2-1 six minutes before intermission, leaning into a shot from the high slot for the third powerplay goal of the game.  

X-Women goaltender Brooklyn Oakes, fresh off Sunday's shutout win, looked sharp as the STFX penalty kill saw plenty of work in the first 40 minutes.  

The physical play continued in the third period, much to the excitement of the boisterous UPEI crowd. The crowd got even louder when McCutchen added another for the Panthers with a quick shot after the puck bounced off the end boards to the front of the net with five minutes to play.   

STFX pulled Oakes for the extra attacker, but couldn't get back on the scoresheet. Erin Cabaday had 21 saves in the win for UPEI, while Oakes finished with 32. 

Tickets for the deciding Game 5 Thursday night in Antigonish will go on sale Tuesday at 10:00 am.

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Recap courtesy Matt Draper, STFX Athletics