Port Moody Panthers Edge Out West Vancouver Wolves 2-1 with Late Slap Shot Heroics
Panthers' clutch goals by Sorensen and O'Reilly seal a thrilling win over Wolves
By Alex Hunter
WEST VANCOUVER – In a tightly contested battle, the Port Moody Panthers defeated the West Vancouver Wolves 2-1 in an electrifying game that came down to the wire. Key goals from Anika Sorensen and Jack O’Reilly turned the tide for the visitors after an early strike by Wolves’ Tania Morales. The victory was crucial for the Panthers as they continue their push for playoff positioning.
The Wolves opened the scoring midway through the first period when Tania Morales unleashed a precise wrist shot, assisted by Maya Singh, to put the home team ahead. The Panthers responded with sustained pressure, launching 35 shots compared to the Wolves’ 32, but faced resilient goaltending from Haruto Saito, who stopped 23 shots despite the eventual loss.
Anika Sorensen was instrumental in the Panthers’ resurgence, capitalizing on a rebound to tie the game. Her opportunistic play shifted momentum, further bolstered by a powerful slap shot from Jack O’Reilly late in the game to clinch the victory. O’Reilly and Sorensen both had seven shots, each scoring a goal, demonstrating their offensive impact.
Behind the Panthers’ net, Daria Vasilieva was outstanding with 30 saves and a save percentage of nearly 97%, limiting the Wolves to just one goal. “We stayed disciplined, kept pushing, and the goals came when it mattered,” Sorensen remarked postgame. O’Reilly added, “Our team showed great character out there, and this win feels like a big step forward.”
The Wolves, despite the loss, saw notable contributions from Morales, who registered one goal and drove play with eight shots overall. Singh also impressed with eight shots and an assist.
This matchup showcased strong defensive plays and physicality, with several momentum-shifting hits that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Key Notes:
- Port Moody Panthers outshot West Vancouver Wolves 35 to 32.
- Daria Vasilieva’s 96.8% save percentage was pivotal.
- Jack O’Reilly and Anika Sorensen each scored one goal and had seven shots on goal.
- Tania Morales led the Wolves with one goal and eight shots.
- Panthers had better shot efficiency (8%) compared to Wolves (3.2%).