3 Takeaways From Fleet’s 3-1 Loss to Charge in Game 2 – The Hockey Writers – Boston Fleet

On Saturday, May 2, the Boston Fleet hosted the Ottawa Charge for Game 2 of their semifinals series in the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) playoffs. The Fleet had a lead in the series after winning Game 1. 

Halfway into the first period, the Charge struck first with an even-strength goal. Not even two minutes into the second period, they increased their lead with an insurance goal. With ten seconds left to go in the middle frame, the Fleet scored their first to bring Boston within one. However, an empty-net goal for Ottawa ensured their 3-1 win, tying the series. 

Frankel Still Had a Strong Performance

Even though she allowed two goals past her, Aerin Frankel still had a strong performance. She posted a save percentage (SV%) of .900, making 18 of 20 saves. She still recorded an SV% within the .900s, which is an impressive feat. 

During the regular season, Frankel recorded eight shutouts, holding the season record within the PWHL. She has been the Fleet’s secret weapon this season and has been strong throughout the season. Both the Charge and the Fleet are strong teams, and both will do anything to try to make it into the Walter Cup Final. Frankel just needs to hold strong and play like she has all season, and the Fleet will be at their best. 

Keller Got the Fleet on the Board

As the second period was winding down, the Charge had two goals and the Fleet had yet to get on the board. Then, Alina Muller stole the puck from the Charge in their zone. She skated it through the neutral zone and into the Fleet’s zone, where she sent a pass to Abby Newhook. She got her stick on the puck but couldn’t keep control. It bounced over to Megan Keller, and she sent the puck past Gwyneth Philips to bring the Fleet within one. 

Keller made it to the playoffs in 2024 with Boston and recorded four assists in eight games. In just two playoff games with the Fleet in 2026, she now has her first postseason goal. Keller had a strong regular season, recording 22 points, a new career high. She also scored the game-winning goal for Team USA in the gold medal game at the 2026 Olympics back in February. Keller has had a strong season, and she has shown no signs of slowing down. 

With her assist on Keller’s goal, Muller now leads the Fleet in points during this postseason run. She scored a goal and recorded an assist in Game 1, so she now has three points. Both Muller and Keller are a part of the leadership group within the Fleet; Keller is the captain, and Muller is one of the alternate captains. The pair have demonstrated not only strong leadership throughout the season but also strength on the ice. 

Fleet Just Couldn’t Capitalize

The Fleet had several opportunities to tie the game in the final frame. Susanna Tapani had two great looks, including a breakaway chance that Philips saved. Tapani picked up the rebound and skated it around to the front of the net, but again Philips stopped the shot. 

The Fleet did their best to get back on the board, but the Charge kept their defense strong to deny Boston the opportunity. Boston outshot the Charge nine to four in the third. They need to keep getting strong chances as the series progresses and make sure the Fleet converts these chances into goals. 

Series Heads to Ottawa 

The two teams will have several days of rest before Game 3 of the semifinals on Friday, May 8, in Ottawa.