By Alex Marshall

NEW WESTMINSTER – In a thrilling showdown at home, the New Westminster Navigators clinched a 5-3 victory over their North Vancouver rivals in a game that showcased sharp offense and steadfast goaltending. Tomasz Wójcik emerged as the standout performer, netting two decisive wrist shots that helped swing momentum firmly in New Westminster’s favor. This win was pivotal for the home team, improving their standings and demonstrating resilience amid tight competition.

The game opened with North Vancouver seizing early momentum as Kieran McCarthy fired a quick snap shot past goalie Keisha Thompson, giving the visitors an early lead. However, New Westminster responded swiftly. At the mid-point of the first period, Wójcik connected on a precise wrist shot, assisted by Ayla Demir and Sofia Bianchi, tying the game and energizing the home crowd.

As the contest progressed, Ayla Demir added another goal with a smooth wrist shot, capitalizing on a turnover. New Westminster’s offense rolled on with Wójcik netting his second to put the home team ahead. The Navigators’ forechecking was relentless, causing 33 turnovers by North Vancouver, which they exploited effectively.

North Vancouver fought back in the third period with goals from Nora Schmidt and a spectacular one-timer by Freja Johansen, but New Westminster’s balanced attack with goals from Bianchi and Dimitrov sealed the deal.

Goalie Keisha Thompson stood tall in net, stopping 28 shots with a commendable 90.3% save percentage, compared to Tereza Novak’s 84.8% for North Vancouver. Thompson’s steady presence was crucial in tightening the defense when New Westminster faced pressure.

“We knew this game would be tough, but our team stuck together and executed our game plan perfectly,” said Wójcik after the game. Head Coach Mark Ellis praised the effort, noting, “Our players showed great heart and discipline today; the timely goals made the difference.”

Key Notes:

• Tomasz Wójcik led New Westminster with 2 goals and 9 shots on goal.
• Keisha Thompson earned 28 saves with a 90.3% save percentage.
• New Westminster outshot North Vancouver 38 to 40, capitalizing on turnovers efficiently.
• Ayla Demir contributed 2 goals and 1 assist in the victory.
• North Vancouver’s Freja Johansen fired 15 shots, scoring once with a one-timer.

The New Westminster Navigators now set their sights on maintaining this momentum as they progress through the season, buoyed by a comprehensive team performance against a determined North Vancouver squad.