Today marked an important step in the journey towards their ultimate goal for the 2024 U.S. Women’s National Team, as head coach John Wroblewski expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance. The young players demonstrated their skills and potential, leaving the team excited for what tomorrow may bring.
The game saw Hannah Bilka from Coppell, Texas, scoring the opening goal just over 12 minutes into the contest after collecting a rebound from Abbey Murphy’s shot and securing a lead for Team USA. Tessa Janecke from Warren, Ill., also contributed to the play with an assist.
In the second period, Team USA extended their lead on a power play with a goal from Janecke to Edwards. This was followed by another goal from Edwards early in the final period, as she capitalized on a scoring opportunity created by Taylor Heise’s impressive play against defenders.
Edwards continued to impress, securing a hat trick with a goal from a pass by Kirsten Simms to further solidify Team USA’s lead. The game ended with Savannah Harmon from Downers Grove, Ill., adding a final goal with a shot from the point.
Frankel’s exceptional performance was highlighted as she stopped all 15 shots faced, earning her fourth shutout of the tournament and setting a record for the most-ever at an IIHF Women’s World Championship.
Laila Edwards was named U.S. Player of the Game, with Kendall Coyne Schofield, Megan Keller, and Aerin Frankel recognized as Team USA’s top players of the tournament. The U.S. dominated in shots on goal against Finland, and their power play performance proved crucial in securing the win.